Santa Clara County unhoused advocates claim available shelter beds aren't being used

Advocates for unhoused individuals in Santa Clara County are voicing serious concerns regarding the underutilization of available shelter beds during extreme heat conditions, which can exacerbate health issues like diabetes and hypertension. Shaunn Cartwright, founder of the Unhoused Response Group, indicates that the current heatwave is particularly dangerous, with at least 80 beds in a Sunnyvale shelter reportedly unused. The county claims that renovations at the North County Shelter have necessitated a reduced capacity, yet advocates argue that past construction has shown that the facility can accommodate more individuals. County Supervisor Otto Lee is also troubled by the situation and is advocating for methods to increase shelter capacity during this critical time. While the Office of Supportive Housing has pledged to provide cooling resources, such as libraries and drop-in centers, the immediate focus remains on moving unhoused individuals into air-conditioned environments.

The situation underscores the urgent need for effective management of shelter resources to protect vulnerable populations during heat events. As the county transitions operators at the Sunnyvale shelter, advocates call for a reevaluation of priorities to address the pressing needs of older single individuals who may be overlooked. The overall health and safety of the unhoused community remain paramount as summer temperatures rise.