EMERGENCY WINTER SHELTER:
At the heart of the SCCDC's activities is its operation of the Santa Clarita emergency winter shelter, open from approximately Dec.1 through March 15 each year. When the Shelter is in operation, clients check in from 6-10 p.m. (later with proof of after-hours work or school) and must check out by 8 a.m. The shelter accepts clients delivered or referred by the sherriff at any time. All clients staying at the shelter are required to obey posted rules, including zero tolerance for alcohol, drugs, weapons, theft, and aggressive, disrespectful, or violent behavior; smoking only in a designated area; and abiding by the call for lights and smoking lamp out at 10 pm. For qualifying local families with children, the SCCDC's voucher program provides shelter in a local motel. Minors are not permitted to stay at the Shelter.
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FOOD SERVICES:
The cornerstone of the SCCDC's food service program is its volunteer management and support. More than 20 churches combine with numerous local restaurants and food vendors to contribute in supplying all of the food for Shelter clients and other guests. The nutritious food service includes a hot dinner as well as breakfast and a "to-go" sack lunch.

An important point is that many of those needing a meal within our community visit the Shelter for dinner only, and don't stay overnight. They are not included in the Shelter client count. We are also pleased to provide referrals to The Food Pantry in Santa Clarita for additional food assistance. To volunteer to provide a meal or for more information, please contact Tricia Gaye-Jones by email or phone at 661-254-2242..

CLOTHING COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION:
Each year the SCCDC receives clothing collected by local churches and donated by clothing manufacturers. The clothing is cleaned and sorted by volunteers for distribution to those in need. Jackets, blankets, sweatshirts and warm socks are always needed, welcomed and appreciated by the Shelter's clients. The Shelter also shares excess clothing with the Church of Hope, the Association to Aid the Victims of Domestic Violence, and Pueblo Nuevo.
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ON-SITE AND REFERRAL SERVICES:
As a vocal and visible advocate for improving the living and social conditions within the Santa Clarita Valley, the SCCDC assists Shelter clients and others in obtaining the help they need to improve their individual or family circumstances. The SCCDC continues to formalize its referral and assistance program. During Emercency Winter Shelter operation, the program provides on-site mental health services two evenings per week through the local office of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, as well as referrals to free and low-cost medical, dental, and mental health care in the Santa Clarita Valley. The SCCDC will may also provide referral services for clients who desire assistance with special needs (e.g. housing, job counseling, pregnancy, domestic violence, alcohol and/or drug abuse, etc.).
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SPECIFIC ITEMS NEEDED:
Please call the Shelter Hotline at 661-312-5845, if you are able to donate any of the much needed items on the list. CLICK HERE to view the current list of needs.