County supervisors yesterday gave the green light to a long-awaited, first-of-its-kind homeless shelter in Morongo Basin. Reporter Mike Lipsitz files this report…
San Bernardino County Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe voted in favor of converting the former San Bernardino County Fire Station 35 in Joshua Tree into a day-use homeless shelter. Rowe was joined by her colleagues on the Board of Supervisors in supporting the measure. The agreement authorizes a five-year lease with the non-profit Family Assistance Program beginning today. The Family Assistance Program will provide shelter, food, clothing, hygiene items, and support services to area homeless. Services will be geared toward homeless youth, but the facility will be open to anyone in need. Fire Station 35 has been vacant since it was closed more than 15 years ago. The Family Assistance Program will pay one dollar per year to provide services at the 2,760 square foot facility, which includes living quarters with showers, a kitchen, and specialized garage space. No estimates yet as to when the facility will open its doors.
