While living in the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter, Chris received assistance from Costa Mesa outreach workers and partners in the Network for Homeless Solutions to connect with multiple services. After a year in the shelter, he is now living in an apartment in Orange County where he is thriving and improving each day.

Chris, who is a young adult, came from a broken home and was a foster youth who lived on the streets. Bridge Shelter Case Manager Paul worked closely with him to develop a comprehensive housing plan and help him reintegrate into society.

Paul cultivated a collaborative relationship with Chris by developing trust and encouraging self-sufficiency. Chris was linked to mental health services for therapeutic support and through assistance from the county, he was eligible for a housing voucher.

The voucher allowed Mercy House’s housing navigator to explore housing units in Orange County. After several months of considering different housing options, Chris found his first permanent home placement, which is a significant milestone for him.

Community volunteers and partners assisted Chris in furnishing his home and provided follow up home visits.

Chris is an example of the City of Costa Mesa’s collaborative efforts to assist those experiencing homelessness in the community.

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