Foul Weather Shelter Program

Program Overview

The City of Ventura established a Foul Weather Shelter Program to protect and preserve life during inclement weather events.

The Program has been launched in partnership with the River Community Church and provides stay warm parks and temporary shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness during severe weather events such as severe rain, wind, or low temperatures. The upcoming season will run from December 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024.

 The Program provides emergency temporary shelter at local motels for individuals experiencing homelessness with priority given to individuals who are 65 and older or live with chronic health conditions. The shelter will be activated at least 48 hours in advance when temperatures are projected to fall below 40 degrees or if weather projections show more than a half inch of rain overnight.

 All remaining motel rooms will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. Individuals who want to receive a room must arrived at the River Community Church located at 859 E. Santa Clara Street, between 5:00pm and 6:00pm. Those who are unable to secure a room will be provided with a stay warm pack. The stay warm packs will consist of items donated by community members, non-profit organizations, and partner agencies. The stay warm packs include rain ponchos, tarps, blankets, jackets, handwarmers, socks, toiletries, snacks and carrying bags for all supplies.

 The City’s community partners, the Ventura Police Department’s Patrol Task Force (PTF), Ventura County Human Services Agency’s team members and local non-profit organizations will assist in sharing information with those in need.

 To learn more about the Foul Weather Shelter Program, please contact Leona Rollins, Housing Services Manager.

Get Involved

Donate: 

• The City is accepting community donations to create 'stay warm packs' for Ventura’s unhoused individuals during harsh weather events. Needed donations include rain ponchos, blankets, jackets, hand-warmers, socks, toiletries, soft snacks, tarps, and carrying bags for items. People interested in donating can bring materials to the River Community Church, located at 859 E. Santa Clara Street.
• Purchase needed donations through our Amazon Wishlist. All supplies will be automatically shipped to the River Community Church. 
• Monetary donations are also being accepted by mail. Checks should be labeled “Foul Weather” and mailed to 859 E. Santa Clara Street, Ventura, CA, 93001.
•  Donate online

Volunteer:

• A minimum of ten volunteers are needed for set-up, support, and take down on the nights of the shelter, roughly 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. If you would like to volunteer your time, please register online.