In San Francisco, The Bayview and Mission Access Points are often the first place individuals turn when they are in need or emergency shelter or housing assistance. Serving as a bridge to greater housing stability, the Access Points work in partnership with the City and County of San Francisco’s Coordinated Entry to meet people where they are, addressing their housing challenges and helping them find safe stable housing. Last year, the Bayview and Mission Access Points responded to over 4,684 people seeking housing support, of whom half were children.
When a client arrives at an Access Point, the first step is check-in. Clients are welcomed into a safe space and connected with a team member who listens with compassion to understand each person’s situation. Our team is here to walk alongside clients, letting them know they are not alone in finding a place to call home. From there, our team conducts assessments to make accurate referrals to additional services and resources, and further assist clients with housing solutions. At times, the Access Points are also able to distribute hygiene kits and groceries to those who need them. Clients leave knowing they have support and a next step.
For many who are facing eviction, living in unsafe conditions, or uncertain about where they will sleep at night, it is not always obvious what kind of help is available. Knowing there is a place and people ready to support them can bring a sense of stability in a time of need. A sense of stability can make it possible to begin thinking about the life they want to build. Once connected to housing, individuals have more room to focus on other aspects of their lives. The Access Points serve as a doorway for individuals and families to connect with immediate support and access to shelter, a basic human right.
Housing is at the heart of stability, and this work is serving our neighbors across the city. It is made possible through the ongoing support from our community and our shared commitment to addressing homelessness and housing instability. Where there is hope, there are those who find it in their hearts to be part of that solution, including our team and communities who show up when and where it is needed the most.
