San Joses Arena Hotel homeless site to switch operators after ongoing issues - Local News Matters

WeHope will take over the management of the Arena Hotel in San Jose, replacing HomeFirst on December 1, following a unanimous city council vote for a $2. 7 million contract. Residents anticipate improvements in case management and access to resources, which have been inconsistent under the previous operator. The hotel has struggled since becoming a homeless shelter, with reports of broken elevators and food poisoning incidents. HomeFirst opted out of continuing operations to concentrate on other housing projects, despite having moved 52 people into permanent housing.

San Jose's homeless population has risen to 6,503, with many still living unsheltered. Councilmember Michael Mulcahy highlighted community concerns about crime and drug-related issues linked to the hotel, prompting the need for a management change. WeHope's founder, Pastor Paul Bains, aims to listen to feedback and implement effective changes. This transition is part of a broader effort to enhance services and stabilize the situation for residents and the surrounding community.