The San Francisco County government has taken a significant step to enhance its support for the homeless community by approving a resolution to extend the contract with 5 Keys Schools and Programs for the operation of the 685 Ellis Street Shelter. This decision, made during a recent meeting, extends the contract by 31 months, now running through June 30, 2026, and increases the total funding to approximately $27.3 million.

The 685 Ellis Street Shelter, which transitioned from a shelter-in-place hotel to a general shelter in December 2022, plays a crucial role in the city’s efforts to provide temporary housing for adults experiencing homelessness. The facility can accommodate up to 134 individuals in 74 rooms, offering essential services and property management. The cost of operating the shelter is about $140 per person per night, excluding meals, which are provided separately through a contract with Meals on Wheels.

Emily Cohen from the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing (HSH) highlighted that the site has served a total of 221 individuals in the last fiscal year, with a demographic representation that reflects the broader homeless community in San Francisco. Notably, 33% of those served were African American, and 18% identified as Latinx.

This extension of the contract is part of a broader strategy to address homelessness in San Francisco, as the city plans to convert the shelter into permanent supportive housing once state funding for its interim operation expires. The decision underscores the city’s commitment to providing ongoing support and resources for vulnerable populations, ensuring that essential services remain available as the community navigates the challenges of homelessness.

As the city continues to address this pressing issue, the extension of the 685 Ellis Street Shelter contract represents a proactive approach to maintaining shelter availability and support for those in need. The next steps will involve monitoring the effectiveness of these services and planning for the transition to permanent housing solutions.