Like many cities in the country, homelessness is a pressing issue in Bakersfield, California. But don’t worry! There are homeless shelters in Bakersfield California, that help homeless people and families.
This article explores the important role that homeless shelters play in communities. Services they provide and how individuals can access or support these life-saving agencies.
Homelessness affects thousands of individuals and families in Bakersfield each year—factors such as rising housing prices, unemployment, mental health issues, and drug use. As a result, the number of homeless people in the city is increasing.
Types of Homeless Shelters in Bakersfield California
Bakersfield is located in Kern County, California. There are shelters and various services to help individuals and families in need. These shelters cater to different demographic groups and provide many types of assistance. Below are the main types of homeless shelters in Bakersfield.
☑️Emergency Shelters
Emergency shelters provide immediate, short-term housing for individuals and families facing homelessness. These shelters often offer necessities like food, clothing, and hygiene supplies.
☑️Family Shelters
Family shelters focus on keeping families together while providing housing and essential services. They often have separate spaces for families to ensure privacy and a sense of stability.
☑️Transitional Housing
Transitional housing provides temporary housing for people transitioning from homelessness to permanent, stable housing. These programs typically last from several months to a few years and include support services such as job training, consulting, and case management.
☑️Youth Shelters
Youth shelters cater specifically to homeless children and young adults, providing age-appropriate services like education, counseling, and vocational training.
☑️Domestic Violence Shelters
These shelters provide safe housing for individuals escaping abusive environments. They often include counseling, legal support, and advocacy services.
☑️Specialized Shelters
Some shelters cater to specific groups, such as veterans, individuals with disabilities, or those struggling with substance abuse. These shelters often provide tailored programs to address unique challenges.
☑️Seasonal or Weather-Dependent Shelters
During bad weather Temporary shelters are set up to protect homeless populations from extreme cold, heat, and other extreme weather conditions.
Bakersfield’s diverse range of homeless shelters ensures that different groups of people—families, individuals, youth, and veterans—have access to essential services. By addressing immediate needs and offering pathways to long-term stability, these shelters play a crucial role in combating homelessness in the community.
Also read: Homeless Shelters in Cincinnati Ohio
Top Homeless Shelters in Bakersfield California
Bakersfield, California, offers a range of shelters providing critical services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Below is a list of some of the top homeless shelters in Bakersfield, highlighting their services and mission to help those in need:
Bakersfield Homeless Center (BHC)
Bakersfield Homeless Center is the premier shelter in the area. It provides emergency shelter and a wide range of services to individuals and families. Their goal is not only to provide immediate relief; But it also addresses long-term problems such as job training, child care, and housing.
Contact:
Address: 1600 E Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305
Phone: (661) 322-9199
The Mission at Kern County
The Mission at Kern County is a faith-based shelter that provides housing, meals, and addiction recovery programs. With a focus on spiritual growth and self-sufficiency, the mission offers comprehensive support for men, women, and families facing homelessness.
Contact:
Address: 816 E 21st St, Bakersfield, CA 93305
Phone: (661) 325-0863
Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault
This shelter is dedicated to rescuing women and children from domestic violence and abusive situations. They offer a safe and confidential space with counseling available, legal support, and emergency housing.
Contact:
Address: Confidential for safety reasons
Phone: (661) 327-1091 (24/7 Hotline)
Flood Bakersfield Ministries
Flood Bakersfield Ministries focuses on empowering homeless people to achieve long-term stability through transitional housing and support services. They offer daily services, assistance in finding housing, and programs tailored to individual needs.
Contact:
Address: 3509 Union Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305
Phone: (661) 323-5663
California Veterans Assistance Foundation (CVAF)
CVAF provides housing and support services specifically for homeless veterans. Their programs include transitional housing, job placement, and advocacy to help veterans regain independence and stability.
Contact:
Address: 729 Decatur St, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Phone: (661) 399-2490
Bethany Services
Bethany Services offers emergency housing and support for women and children in crisis, especially those escaping domestic violence. Their confidential location ensures safety while providing counseling and advocacy services.
Contact:
Address: Confidential for safety reasons
Phone: (661) 322-9199
Covenant Community Services
Covenant Community Services is dedicated to supporting at-risk youth. This is especially true for those transitioning from foster care. They provide housing, mentorship, and life-skills training to help young people build a stable future.
Contact Information:
Address: 1700 N Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Phone: (661) 326-8304
Bakersfield’s diverse range of homeless shelters ensures that different groups of people—families, individuals, youth, and veterans—have access to essential services. By addressing immediate needs and offering pathways to long-term stability, these shelters play a crucial role in combating homelessness in the community.
How do These Homeless Shelters Help Homeless People and Families?
Homeless shelters in Bakersfield, California, play a crucial role in supporting individuals and families in need. Each shelter offers unique services, but they all share the goal of providing immediate relief, long-term solutions, and a pathway to stability. Here’s how these shelters help:
- Emergency Shelter and Safety
Shelters are safe places for homeless individuals and families to protect them from the dangers of life on the road. This includes private spaces for families and safe environments for vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly.
- Access to Basic Needs
Most shelters offer essentials such as meals, clothing, and hygiene supplies. This immediate assistance helps individuals focus on rebuilding their lives without worrying about day-to-day survival.
- Transitional Housing
For those working toward permanent stability, shelters like Flood Bakersfield Ministries and CVAF offer transitional housing. These programs provide temporary housing with additional support, helping residents gain employment, save money, and prepare for independent living.
- Counseling and Mental Health Support
Shelters like Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault offer counseling to individuals recovering from trauma, family violence or drug use. These services help people maintain their mood and improve their mental well-being.
- Family Preservation
Family shelters ensure that families experiencing homelessness can stay together. They provide tailored support for parents and children, such as childcare, educational resources, and parenting classes.
- Permanent Housing Placement
Many shelters help residents transition into permanent housing by connecting them with affordable housing programs or rental assistance. Flood Bakersfield Ministries and similar organizations provide case management to ensure long-term housing stability.
Also read: Homeless Shelters in Brooklyn NY
How to Find Emergency Homeless Shelters in Bakersfield California?
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, there are several ways to find emergency homeless shelters in Bakersfield, California. Here are the most effective steps:
✔️Search Online Shelter Directories
Online directories such as Homeless Shelter Directory and 211 Kern County list shelters and services in Bakersfield. These directories provide contact information, eligibility requirements, and operating hours for local shelters.
✔️Call 2-1-1 Kern County
Dial 2-1-1, a free helpline that connects individuals to local resources, including emergency shelters. This service is available 24/7 and can provide details about shelter availability, eligibility criteria, and referral services.
✔️Contact Local Shelters Directly
Reach out to shelters in Bakersfield to inquire about their services and availability:
- Bakersfield Homeless Center: (661) 322-9199
- The Mission at Kern County: (661) 325-0863
- Alliance Against Family Violence: (661) 327-1091
✔️Visit Community Centers or Churches
Many community centers and faith-based organizations in Bakersfield work closely with homeless shelters. Visiting a local church or center can help you get referrals and immediate assistance.
Finding emergency homeless shelters in Bakersfield is easier when you know where to look and who to contact. Whether through helplines, online directories, or local organizations, you can access resources to find safety and support during challenging times.
Key Tips
- Have Identification Ready: Some shelters may require an ID for entry, though many accept individuals without one.
- Arrive Early: Shelters often operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early increases your chances of getting a spot.
- Be Persistent: If one shelter is full, ask them for recommendations or referrals to other available resources.
How to Receive Free Homeless Shelters in Bakersfield California?
Homeless shelters in Bakersfield provide free emergency housing and essential services to individuals and families in need. To receive these services, follow the steps below:
✔️Identify Your Needs
Many shelters serve specific groups, such as families, single adults, youth, veterans, or individuals fleeing domestic violence to improve the process Consider what type of coverage is best for your situation.
✔️Contact Shelters Directly
Call local shelters to inquire about availability and requirements for entry. Many shelters operate on a first-come, first-served basis and may have specific rules or eligibility criteria.
Key shelters to contact include:
- Bakersfield Homeless Center: (661) 322-9199
- The Mission at Kern County: (661) 325-0863
- Alliance Against Family Violence: (661) 327-1091
✔️Visit in Person
If possible, visit the shelter directly to apply for services. Most shelters do not charge fees but may require basic information, such as your name, situation, and identification (if available). Some shelters accept individuals without ID or documentation.
✔️Call 2-1-1 Kern County
Dial 2-1-1 for assistance in finding free emergency shelters. The helpline operates 24/7 and connects individuals to shelters and other resources in Bakersfield. The operators can also guide you through the intake process for specific shelters.
✔️Apply for Transitional Housing Programs
If you need longer-term support, transitional housing programs in Bakersfield can help you move toward permanent housing. These programs are free or low-cost and often include supportive services like job training and counseling. Shelters like Flood Bakersfield Ministries and the California Veterans Assistance Foundation (CVAF) offer such programs.
Tips to Receive Shelter Services
- Arrive early: Many shelters operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, arrive early to reserve accommodation.
- Be honest about your situation: Share your situation openly with shelter staff to help them find the right services for you.
- Bring essential items: If possible, carry basic items such as clothing, medicine, and personal hygiene items.
- Please forward: If the shelter is full Ask staff to request a referral to a shelter or other available resources.
Conclusion
Homeless shelters in Bakersfield, California, serve as a critical resource for those in need. By supporting these shelters through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, we can all play a part in building a stronger, more compassionate community.
FAQs
How long can you stay at a homeless shelter California?
There is no time limit on how long a person can stay. The goal is to help shelter clients get settled and get services to find permanent or long-term housing.
Are shelters free?
Most are free or low-cost, funded by donations and grants.
Can families stay together in shelters?
Yes, many shelters prioritize keeping families intact.
What services do homeless shelters in Bakersfield provide?
In addition to temporary housing, shelters in Bakersfield often provide:
Hot meals and food assistance
Medical care and mental health support
Employment training and job placement services
Childcare and educational programs for children
Addiction recovery and counseling programs
What documents are required to access a homeless shelter?
Typically, shelters require some form of identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID. For families, proof of guardianship for children may be needed. However, some shelters may waive documentation requirements in emergencies.
Do homeless shelters in Bakersfield help with finding permanent housing?
Yes, many shelters partner with housing programs and social services to help individuals transition into permanent housing. They often offer case management and resources for rental assistance and housing applications.
