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Saint Martin Foundation updates council; city public-benefit funds earmarked to support program
Summary
Mark Jackson of the Saint Martin Foundation told the Galt City Council the nonprofit has housed and supported men in recovery since April 2023; councilmembers pledged city public-benefit funds to the foundation and praised its outcomes.
Mark Jackson, president and CEO of the Saint Martin Foundation, told the Galt City Council that the small nonprofit has been operating a residential program since April 2023 to help men transition from substance recovery into independent living. "Our mission is aimed at reducing homelessness among male veterans and non veterans who are transitioning from alcohol addiction recovery programs," Jackson said.
Jackson reported the program has served 28 residents since opening, that about 25% of residents were from Galt, and that many graduates found employment and housing. He credited Sacramento County Behavioral Health Services and local supervisors for financial and program support.
Councilmembers responded positively. Vice Mayor Tim Reid said the Saint Martin Foundation's results influenced his decision to direct his public-benefit funds to the nonprofit. "What you presented tonight is the reason that I've decided to take my public benefit fund and put it towards the Saint Martin Foundation," Reid said.
Robert Jenkins, a current or former resident who spoke during public comment, described his experience in the program and credited it with helping him achieve sobriety. "Living in this house has been great," Jenkins said. He described program requirements (job search support, volunteer hours and outpatient services) and said the structured environment helped his recovery.
Why it matters: the council's allocation of public-benefit funds will provide local financial support to a program that the presenters say helps people find housing and employment after homelessness and substance use. The council did not vote on a specific dollar amount on the record at this meeting; the public-benefit-fund allocation was announced as an intent tied to the consent calendar item listed for action.
Next steps: staff will include the organization in the consent calendar action (item J-5) and follow up on administrative steps to allocate the funds.
