Long Beach announced the beginning of its youth-focused homeless shelter Tuesday morning, for people between the ages of 18 and 24 at risk of or already experiencing homelessness.
The Youth Shelter and Navigation Center will be located at 1718 Hayes Ave., and will provide 12 beds for temporary shelter year-round for Long Beach youth.
“The Long Beach Youth Shelter and Navigation Center will provide a safe haven and lifeline for young adults who need our support at their most vulnerable moments,” said Mayor Rex Richardson at a press conference Tuesday morning. “By placing a focus on youth, we can prevent a lifetime of homelessness for future generations.”
Long Beach will begin the $4.1 million renovation of the 5,400 square-foot building in February, with an expected opening estimated for early 2025. Once open, the center will offer beds, supportive services, connection to case management, restroom and shower facilities, laundry facilities, a kitchenette and a lounge area.
The center will also offer daily storage for people experiencing homelessness and working to access resources through the Multi-Service Center (MSC) in Long Beach, regardless of their age.
In order to access the center, people will need to obtain a referral from the MSC or one of the city’s Mobile Access Centers. Transportation to the center will be provided by the city, if needed.
The Youth Shelter and Navigation Center is funded by $1.8 million from Measure A funds, $1.4 million from California’s AB32 Global Warming Solutions Act and $900,000 from California’s Homeless Emergency Aid Program.
“We are proud to welcome the Youth Shelter and Navigation Center to our West Long Beach community,” said Councilmember Roberto Uranga at the press conference. “Our goal is to ensure that youth who are experiencing homelessness in Long Beach have a safe place to stay and the resources they need to thrive.”
The building will need new interior walls, doors, showers, restrooms, interior ceilings, lighting and exterior paint. Long Beach will also provide sidewalk and driveway improvements in front of the building.
Residents can visit longbeach.gov/homelessness for updates on the City’s efforts to reduce homelessness.
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