The Catholic Charities of Northwest California's Homeless Outreach Street Team (HOST) plays a vital role in addressing homelessness in the region through compassionate and personalized support. With dedicated teams operating in Santa Rosa and Rohnert Park, HOST focuses on building trust and rapport with individuals experiencing homelessness.
“I think HOST has a huge impact in the community because we go out into the community to meet the client where they are, both by location and as far as where they are at as far as vulnerability, and needs that need to be met,” said Dustin Arroyo, Supervisor of Rohnert Park HOST.
The Santa Rosa teams work tirelessly to connect with those living outdoors or in unstable conditions, offering supportsuch as emergency shelter placements, healthcare referrals, and help securing personalized resources. Together, the teams visit up to 20 different locations each day. Additionally, each outreach worker can help case manage up to 25 individuals, providing guidance towards stability.
“The first interaction is vital—it's an opportunity to start building trust. I take my time and engage with people thoughtfully to show genuine interest. When I know someone's name, I use it, because names matter. I will also offer hygiene products, snacks and dog food when they have them,” said Noel Rodriguez, Outreach Worker Supervisor.
Meanwhile, the Rohnert Park team provides consistent outreach and individualized care to those living without stable housing. They also support clients during Wednesday morning services, when a mobile shower trailer is available in the city. Dustin has connected with nearly 800 individuals during his outreach efforts in the city.
“HOST Team members, including myself, all understand the importance of that first interaction with the client we are meeting for the first time—who may be experiencing trauma, fear, lack of safety and shelter, food, and is usually feeling all alone and like no one cares about them. We want that person to know and feel that all of us at HOST care about them, and we are here to help them in any way that they need,” said Dustin.
