Sunnyvale OKs winter hotel rooms for homeless residents

The Sunnyvale City Council has taken a significant step in addressing homelessness by approving a pilot program to provide winter shelter to local homeless residents. This initiative will allow up to 10 individuals to stay in hotel rooms at Extended Stay America for up to 20 nights during inclement weather, such as cold weather alerts or continuous rainfall. Councilmember Alysa Cisneros, who has advocated for such a program since 2022, highlighted its life-saving potential, especially as Santa Clara County reported 190 homeless deaths this year alone. Participants will benefit from two meals daily and connections to supportive services, marking a critical shift in the city’s approach to homelessness. With a budget of $73,185 and additional contingency funding, the program could launch as soon as next week and may evolve into a permanent solution if it proves effective.

This unusual approach, which differs from the county's existing cold weather shelters, reflects a growing urgency to support vulnerable populations. Multiple residents shared their experiences at the council meeting, underscoring the necessity of temporary housing solutions during harsh weather. The city is also exploring additional supportive services, indicating a comprehensive strategy to tackle homelessness in the region.