Pasadena Considers Proposal for Safe Parking Program to Support Homeless People Living in Cars

A City department is proposing a safe parking program to support homeless individuals and families living in their cars with the ultimate goal of facilitating their transitioning into proper housing.

The program would provide the homeless with essential services and a secure space to park without the risk of citations or impoundment fees.

The Department of Housing will formally present the proposal to the City Council through the Economic Development and Technology Committee during the committee meeting on Tuesday, March 19. 

The proposal recommends a contract between the city and End Homelessness California, DBA The Shower of Hope, to provide up to 25 homeless individuals in Pasadena with a safe place to park, sleep, and access vital services.

According to the Department of Housing’s Agenda Report for the City Council, chronically homeless individuals living outdoors have different needs than those sheltering in their vehicles. 

The report states, “By maintaining access to vehicular shelter, individuals participating in safe parking programs may maintain work and community ties not afforded to individuals living on the street. Without safe parking, people living in their cars risk citations, towing, or impoundment fees that increase instability and threaten those ties.”

If approved, the safe parking program will be located at the All Saints Episcopal Church parking lot, on the southeast corner of Walnut Street and Euclid Ave., operating from 7 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. 

Participants enrolled in the program will have a reserved spot each night and will receive security, meals, and access to essential services.