Overview

The Torres Community Shelter was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1998. Winter Shelter efforts were administered by the Partnership through the Community Action Agency. By December of 1998 the shelter moved from a motel-based program to a rotating church-based program that provided shelter during the coldest months of the year.

In 2003 CCSP had completed construction of the dormitory building of the Torres Community Shelter. The Shelter now operates year-round and offers up to 140 beds per night for emergency shelter services. Priority is given first to Chico residents; second priority is residents of other Butte County communities.

Outreach, case-management, job and housing searches are all essential elements of preventing and reducing homelessness. CCSP provides all of these services by appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much should I donate?

A. Here are suggestions for how you can help:

Shelter one person for a day - $12.50
Shelter a single parent with one child for a night - $25
Shelter one individual for four nights - $50
Shelter a family of four for two nights or an individual for eight nights - $100
Shelter a family of three for four nights - $150

Q. Who do you serve?

A. Residents of Chico and Butte County who are currently homeless as well as those who are at risk of becoming homeless. We provide emergency overnight shelter including transportation to and from the shelter site.

Q. What kinds of services are provided besides shelter and showers?

A. Individualized case management services including SSI and benefit counseling, on-site veteran's assistance, behavioral health referral, and a full spectrum of information and assistance services.

Q. Do you charge for any of your services? Who is eligible?

A. There is no charge for any of the services we provide. Any resident of Chico or other communities in Butte County who is in need of emergency shelter is eligible to receive services, provided they are at least 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent. We have adopted and follow a policy of non-discrimination. All guests are subject to the shelter rules and conditions of stay. Please download a copy of our Welcome Packet.

Q. How is the shelter funded?

A. Through a combination of federal, state, and local funds. Except for the funds raised locally through private donations all of our funding is specifically earmarked for certain activities.

Q. Who are the clients? Demographics?

A. Similar to the National Statistics on Homelessness, over 70% of the clients served are single men. Single women, single parents both men and women and children make up the remaining 30%. National statistics show that children are the fastest growing segment of homeless persons.

Q. What about drug/alcohol use and mental health issues?

A. We strive to provide a comprehensive service approach; referrals and counseling are provided for alcohol/drug services as well as for mental health counseling. Last years shelter guest intake indicated that approximately 25% of shelter participants were currently receiving services from Butte County Behavioral Health. We estimate that a slightly higher number of participants are dealing with substance abuse issues and/or are dual diagnosis.

Q. Do you allow those using alcohol or other drugs to sleep at the shelter?

A. A strict policy regarding use of substances at the shelter is adhered to. Individuals using the shelters are required to read and sign a Rules and Regulations sheet prior to entering the shelter. Suspected violations are assessed by the Shelter Coordinator and Service Coordinator and dispositions are decided on a case-by-case basis. For the safety of other guests and staff, persons under the influence are excluded for that night and are encouraged to return when sober.