Confusion and false alarm as West Oakland homeless shelters close

The West Oakland homeless shelters will close permanently at the end of the month, leaving 37 residents uncertain about their next steps. Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency (BOSS), the nonprofit managing the shelters, announced its decision to exit due to unresolved financial issues with the city, which owes approximately $1 million. In March, BOSS CEO Donald Frazier warned that the shelters would have to shut down imminently if payments were not made, leading to a temporary agreement that extended operations until June 30. However, BOSS withdrew a month early, citing the unsustainable costs of providing services without payment. City spokesperson Sean Maher stated that the city is working to provide emergency support to affected residents, although Frazier criticized the city's claims about processed invoices, asserting he has not received any funds.

Confusion has been exacerbated by conflicting information about the closure timeline, with signs posted on the property warning of trespassing. One resident expressed his desire for stable housing, stating he would stay until forced to leave. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness in Oakland.