Although it is difficult to get a precise count, there are, by some estimates, more than 10,000 homeless families in Los Angeles County. Upward Bound House works to change that by providing transitional housing at Family Place in Santa Monica and emergency housing at the Family Shelter in Culver City.
At Family Shelter, which celebrated its first anniversary this month, provides case managers that help stabilize the family and assist them in securing permanent housing as quickly as possible. They help the parents find a job, link them with child care, enroll the children in local schools and ultimately help them secure permanent housing. Upward Bound House provides private, safe and dignified accommodations, fully outfitted with linens, toiletries and other amenities donated by companies, service clubs or individuals who adopt a unit.
To mark the anniversary, a full brunch was generously donated and served by the staff at The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey. Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl and Culver City Councilman Scott Malsin attended the celebration. Both applauded Upward Bound House’s success in addressing family homelessness and recognized The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey for their commitment to the community.
Upward Bound House Executive Director David Snow proclaimed The Ritz-Carlton a “model community partner.” In addition to the brunch, the hotel also participated in Upward Bound House’s annual Welcome Home Block Party, donated bikes to the children in residence and is adopting a unit at the Shelter.
“Our success is dependent on community support,” Snow said. “The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey is making a meaningful impact on our efforts to address family homelessness.”
The event also featured the unveiling of a new van to assist Upward Bound House with its on-site food programs at the shelter. The van was donated by the Friends of UBH, a support group whose mission is to support Upward Bound House through hands-on volunteer projects, delivering on wish list needs, advocacy and recruiting new friends.
Family Shelter has served 67 families, representing 72 adults and 108 children during its first year.
