Citrus Heights HART is a volunteer-run community effort to end homelessness in the City of Citrus Heights. Our goal is to act as a resource for those experiencing extreme poverty and chronic instability by connecting people in need with local services. The HART philosophy is rooted in the idea that resources must be accessible in order to be utilized. Because most homeless services within Sacramento County are located downtown, there exists a physical gap between services and many of the people who need them. Open communication between local government, business owners, faith-based organizations, and passionate individuals fosters an atmosphere of collaboration that we believe will lead to tangible improvements in the lives of the homeless in Citrus Heights.
Our mission is to provide resources that will enable at-risk people and people experiencing homelessness in Citrus Heights and adjacent areas to become independent, self-sustaining, and participating members of the community.
We are an all-volunteer-run nonprofit organization. 100% of our donations go directly to support our programs and Citrus Heights HART as a whole. The programs we are promoting specifically for the Big Day of Giving support our Rental Assistance, Homeless Prevention Program, and Winter Sanctuary Program.
Rental Assistance Program
The Rental Assistance Program at Citrus Heights HART is a vital component of our homeless prevention efforts. This program aims to prevent evictions and homelessness by providing financial assistance to households on the brink of losing their homes. In the fiscal year 2021/2022, the program successfully kept 9 families in their homes, and in 2022/2023, it supported 13 families, including 23 adults, 11 children, and 5 seniors. These households not only maintained their homes but also had access to essential resources like food banks, clothing, SMUD assistance, and the Renter Helpline & Navigator.
The Rental Assistance Program operates through an internal committee consisting of board members and community volunteers. This committee collaborates with partners such as the St. Vincent de Paul Society to identify needy households, focusing on vulnerable families with children. Once identified, the committee conducts house tours and interviews to assess the family's housing sustainability and the root causes of their economic challenges. Following the evaluation, the Rental Assistance Committee votes on providing the requested funds. Regardless of the outcome, Citrus Heights HART ensures that the household is connected with other community resources for ongoing support.
By keeping families housed, the Rental Assistance Program plays a crucial role in reducing the need for additional public assistance and preventing generational economic insecurity. The program not only addresses the immediate housing crisis but also empowers families to access resources and support that contribute to long-term stability and self-sufficiency. HART has invested more than $102,734 since 2021 to prevent evictions and keep renters in their homes.
Winter Sanctuary Program
The Winter Sanctuary program, operated by Citrus Heights HART, is a community-driven initiative that provides temporary shelter and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness during the coldest months of the year. Local churches open their doors to house people experiencing homelessness for one week at a time, rotating throughout the winter months. This program offers a safe and warm environment for those in need, fostering a sense of community and providing essential support during challenging weather conditions.
Through the Winter Sanctuary program, Citrus Heights HART aims to address the immediate housing needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and create a welcoming space where they can find respite and assistance. This year’s Winter Sanctuary sheltered 69 guests over 60 days, with ages ranging from 20 to 74.
Citrus Heights HART is committed to serving the homeless and most vulnerable in our community. We committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of our programs.
Organization name
Citrus Heights HART
2017
Tax id (EIN)
81-2056349
Mission Category
Human Services
Operating Budget
$50,001 - $100,000
Organization Need
Funding: Unrestricted, Volunteers
Local Counties Served
Sacramento
Equity Statement
Equity Statement
Address
5912 Sunrise MallCitrus Heights, CA, US