Update from Sonoma Overnight Support — ‘On the move again’

“We are a homeless shelter without a home — SOS is on the move again.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, we’ve been quickly adapting to new rules and regulations, while continuing to offer essential services.

On May 1, due to social distancing guidelines, we shifted from serving local restaurant food to-go in the backyard of The Haven to preparing and serving food in Burlingame Hall. We are so grateful to the First Congregational Church for allowing us to be there during the month of May.

Now that Phase 2 regulations have allowed some businesses to reopen, their preschool is moving back, so we are moving again, too. Starting June 1, SOS’s food program will be at the Sonoma Springs Community Hall (formerly The Grange) providing meal service Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Winter Shelter, which opened in December in the fellowship hall of Sonoma Alliance Church, closed on May 26. During this season, 60 individuals were provided with a warm place to sleep, for a total of 1,960 bed nights. Our gratitude is deep for the compassion and generosity shown to us by the church congregation.

Thanks to our partnership with Sonoma Valley Community Health Center, 10 people now have permanent shelter at Sonoma State University, Santa Rosa Fairgrounds, Los Guilicos Village, and SHARE housing in Sonoma.

SOS continues to operate a portable shower in the parking lot at the Sonoma Veterans Memorial Hall, where we do our best to take care of as many homeless clients as possible, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon.

Your financial support continues to make all our efforts possible! Many thanks,