Dignity Village Opens in Modesto: A New Hope for People Facing Homelessness
Modesto, CA – Today, the community opens Dignity Village. This place is a 42-unit home for a short time. It sits at the corner of Ninth and E streets. The first residents move in this weekend. They face homelessness, mental health issues, and substance use.
A Safe Haven for Recovery
Dignity Village gives short-term homes to adults in need. The 70‑square‑foot tiny cabins feel safe and warm. Each home supports people as they work to heal. The project gives both shelter and care to each person. County staff, city workers, and local groups join in the work. The city received over $3 million from a state program in June 2023. The funds helped build and run Dignity Village.
Community Involvement and Support
Many local groups and volunteers helped build Dignity Village. Some groups cared for one cabin each. They decorated each space with simple touches. A team from the Public Defender’s Office dressed their cabin with toiletries, pictures, curtains, and a welcome mat. These touches made the cabin feel more like home. Shelli Margarite, a client support manager, said moving from street life can be hard. "If you have been on the streets for a long time, the change is rough at first. We really wanted to make it a home," she said.
Official Remarks and Future Aspirations
Mayor Sue Zwahlen spoke at the opening. She said that having a safe roof gives people a chance to heal and find hope for tomorrow. Ruben Imperial, the director of Behavioral Health and Recovery Services for the county, said the project gives homes to people in the CARE Court program. The CARE Court helps adults with severe mental health challenges. The program provides treatment as well as safe housing.
Facilities and Services
Dignity Village has toilets, showers, a dining area, a laundry room, social spaces, and even a dog run. Residents stay in the home for three to six months while they plan for permanent housing. The county manages daily work with a $2.8 million contract approved by supervisors. A nearby shelter also gives extra support to those who live at the village.
A Model for Future Projects
The county is one of seven in a pilot CARE Court program. This court has already helped many people. Local leaders hope that this new bridge housing model will bring more hope to the area. Supervisor Vito Chiesa said the project shows good results from similar programs state-wide. Kris Van Giesen from the construction company BOSS said more units are planned in other areas. This plan shows a strong commitment to fight the housing crisis.
Conclusion
Dignity Village stands as a sign of hope in Modesto. It brings many groups together to fight homelessness with safe housing and community support. As the first residents get ready to move in, the village marks a strong effort to bring care, stability, and a brighter future to those in need.
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