City leaders, local philanthropists should prioritize Safe Ground Model Community in north Sacramento

Homelessness can seem like an intractable problem. But one model that’s worked in numerous cities is service-enriched housing. These programs provide the chronically homeless with not just a place to live, but also access to supportive services they need to cope with substance-abuse issues, disabilities and health problems—which are the most common causes of homelessness.

Such programs are hopeful, humane and cost-effective. They reduce the expensive incarcerations and emergency-room visits that many homeless people experience on a regular basis.

That’s why it’s so encouraging to learn that Safe Ground Sacramento, a coalition of local homelessness leaders, is working with Sacramento City Councilman Allen Warren on plans to build a cottage-style development in north Sacramento. This Safe Ground Model Community would provide transitional housing and basic services for up to 100 chronically homeless individuals.

To make this happen, Safe Ground will need roughly $3 million, 2.5 acres of land, and the support of not only Warren and his colleagues on the city council, but also the community at large. We urge readers to join in building a consensus on this important project.