Low-Barrier Navigation Centers (LBNC) are interim housing sites that transitions those experiencing homelessness into permanent housing. The centers follow “Housing First” principles by providing a safe place for people to stay while they get the support they need.
Low Barrier Navigation Centers (LBNCs) are not drop-in centers. They are staffed 24 hours/7 days per week and provide a safe and supportive place for residents to stay throughout the day.
- Residents are selected by referral from qualified service providers, with individuals undergoing an assessment prior to being offered a space.
- LBNCs are within a contained building/campus and are expected to have low turnover and minimal in and out traffic
- LBNCs help reduce homelessness in the community.
- LBNCs offer on-site supportive services for individuals to secure permanent housing.
- Services promote recovery by providing person-centered, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed care.
- Staff work with residents in a stable environment until they can move to permanent housing.
- Participants sign an agreement to follow center guidelines and rules. Any illicit activity gets addressed by the 24-hour on-site resident services staff.
- Average length of stay for residents is anticipated to be six months.
LBNCs aim to create a safe space for supportive connections and collaborative work on pathways to stable permanent housing for residents.
The Housing for Health Division of the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department is partnering with other County departments, cities, and local nonprofit organizations to establish three geographically distributed LBNCs within the county. These facilities will expand our regional capacity and help reduce the number of people living without shelter.
California Government Code – Title 7, Division 1, Chapter 3, Article 12, Section 65660
“Low Barrier Navigation Center” means a Housing First, low-barrier, service-enriched shelter focused on moving people into permanent housing that provides temporary living facilities while case managers connect individuals experiencing homelessness to income, public benefits, health services, shelter, and housing. “Low Barrier” means best practices to reduce barriers to entry, including, but not limited to allowing partners, pets, possessions, and privacy for participants.