Shelter for Homeless Expected to Open Soon

A Venice shelter to help the homeless in West Los Angeles is expected to open within one week, county Supervisor Deane Dana has announced.

The shelter at 641 Westminster Ave. will be operated by the Venice Area Coalition for the Homeless, composed of 22 community agencies, with the Low Income and Elderly United Community Assistance project serving as the lead agency. It will provide 15 to 20 beds to families with women and children for up to 60 days.

The homeless will receive job training assistance, food, shelter, clothing and health services.

“This is another important step in our continuing efforts to help the homeless return to the mainstream of society,” Dana said.

“While the county, through my office, and the Federal Emergency Manpower Act Board are providing funds to launch the center, we do need the public’s help. Operation of the shelter must be a true partnership among government, the private sector and the public if we are to maximize assistance for the homeless.”

The shelter needs clothing for all ages and sizes, bedding, food, contribution of services, dishes, cooking utensils and funds.

Contributions can be sent to Vera Davis, executive director.

The Federal Emergency Manpower Act is providing funding to refurbish the facility and to purchase appliances and bedding.

Operating expenses are provided by the county, which will also make beds available. The beds were used during the Summer Olympic Games and donated to the county by the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee.

Among agencies participating in the coalition are Venice Family Clinic, Didi Hirsch, United Community Housing Development, CLARE Foundation, West Area Food Bank, Ocean Park Community Center, Tuum Est, West Area Opportunity Center and St. Joseph’s Center.

The Venice Chamber of Commerce is also lending support.