Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1526583
10 | Health Matters: Providence Sonoma County COMMUNITY HEALTH Housing Is Health Providence provides safe, affordable housing for those who are most vulnerable in Northern California. W hen we consider the role of health care, homelessness is not usually what comes to mind first. But that's changing, thanks to the community health needs assessments that Providence conducts in Northern California every three years. These have revealed that housing is a high-priority need all across the region, including counties that Providence hospitals call home: Napa, Sonoma and Humboldt. "Housing is a basic need directly linked to wellness and health. The average lifespan of the unhoused is 42 to 52 years," says Dana Codron, senior director of Community Health. "We are passionate about investing in projects that ensure individuals' basic needs are met, and that includes housing." Providence partners with other like-minded, like-hearted organizations to help residents live their healthiest lives possible, regardless of income, with exciting projects like these in Sonoma County. Caritas Center and Caritas Homes: In 2023, Providence contributed $2 million to Catholic Charities to open Caritas Center, which features a traditional shelter as well as drop-in and recuperative shelters, a childcare center and a health clinic run by Santa Rosa Community Health. We gave an additional $2.2 million to help open the doors of Caritas Homes, an apartment building with 64 units of permanent affordable housing. "Caritas Homes is a visible fulfillment of Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital's mission to care for the most poor and vulnerable," says Rebecca Kendall, chief philanthropy officer at Providence Santa Rosa Memorial. Thirty units are designated for people who have experienced long-term homelessness or have a mental or behavioral health condition. The remaining 34 units are reserved for hardworking families and individuals who simply cannot afford the high local cost of living. "What makes all of these homes extra special is the fact that they are located in downtown Santa Rosa, extremely close to transportation, jobs, community events and services," Kendall says. Phase two of construction is expected to begin in 2025. Providence Rohnert Park House: Providence is finalizing details to build 76 permanent supportive housing units in Rohnert Park for seniors ages 55 and over who have a documented history of long-term homelessness and incomes at or below 30% of the area's median. The building will also have six recuperative care units, where residents will have access to supportive services that address their health and housing needs. This project is being made possible by funds from Providence's Community Benefit program, contributions from the community and a federal grant awarded by Congressman Mike Thompson. This is an exciting construction project, and we will share key milestones with our community as it progresses. Studios at Montero: The former Americas Best Value Inn in Petaluma has been transformed into permanent supportive housing, offering 60 affordable rental units for chronically homeless individuals. This project provides a safe and secure home with fully operable kitchens and communal spaces. Committee on the Shelterless (COTS), a trusted local provider, delivers comprehensive supportive services, including case management and social opportunities, primarily on- site. Rental assistance is facilitated by the Sonoma County Housing Authority, ensuring accessibility for residents with extremely low or no income. Supportive housing is just one of our top priorities. Learn more about our areas of focus on page 11. Studios at Montero in Petaluma Caritas Center in Santa Rosa