70 Oakland Encampment Residents Transition into Interim Housing in One Week

Oakland has successfully closed a long-standing homeless encampment on East 12th Street, relocating 70 residents to Mandela House, which is funded by the California Encampment Resolution Fund. This operation began on May 12 and followed over a year of outreach to the encampment's residents, offering shelter and services. Mayor Barbara Lee praised the city's commitment to compassionate support for the unhoused community. Alongside the 70 individuals who moved into Mandela House, six residents enrolled in a medical respite care program to aid their recovery. The city also removed 423 tons of debris and towed more than 33 abandoned vehicles from the site.

Collaboration among various city departments, including the Oakland Fire and Police Departments, facilitated a smooth transition for the residents. The Mandela House program is set to convert its units into Permanent Supportive Housing within the year. Operation Dignity and Alameda County Health continue to provide support for those who remain in the area.