Program That Helps Homeless Find Work Expands In Pass Area

BANNING, CA — Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez has allocated $350,000 to expand the Homeless to Work program, an initiative offering unhoused residents in the Pass Area temporary employment and housing support, he announced last week.

The program, administered by the county's Department of Housing and Workforce Solutions in partnership with the Salvation Army, provides participants with paid part-time work, job training, case management, and placement services for temporary and permanent housing.

Under the 90-day initiative, participants work 20 hours a week on community beautification projects across Banning, Beaumont, Cabazon, and Cherry Valley.

"I've seen how this program transforms the lives of our most vulnerable residents for the better," Gutierrez said in a statement. "This funding means we can help more of our neighbors find stable work and a place to call home."

The Salvation Army oversees candidate recruitment, on-the-job supervision, transportation to worksites, and connections to wraparound support services. More than 100 people have completed the program to date, according to officials.

Pass Area residents interested in participating can apply through the Fifth District supervisor's website or by contacting the Salvation Army at 951-784-4490.