CITY OF TUCSON AND LOCAL GROUPS PARTNER ON PILOT PROGRAM FOR SAFE SLEEPING SITE
Using a community-initiated strategy, known as Serving Together and Rebuilding (STAR) Village, the City of Tucson is partnering with local nonprofits to create a safe, outdoor sleeping space for individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness.
The concept for the STAR Village initiative was brought forward by Victoria Devasto, a mutual aid group volunteer, to Tucson's Mayor and Council and city manager, who expressed support for the pilot program. Vice Mayor Lane Santa Cruz, who has championed this model and pushed to pilot it for nearly a year, has worked closely with Council Member Karin Uhlich, who brings over a decade of experience in human services, to build momentum, secure support, and ensure the initiative is grounded in best practices and responsive to community needs. Additional operational support will be provided by local nonprofits, the Primavera Foundation, and Old Pueblo Community Services (OPCS).
The pilot program will serve up to 25 individuals at any given time and be staffed continuously to ensure the property is secure. In addition to a safe outdoor sleeping space, the STAR Village will include social service support and medical assistance on-site to assist participants with a potential transition to a more stable living situation.
City staff is working to finalize the Ward 3 location at 244 E. Grant Rd. and conduct outreach to neighboring residents and businesses. The site is planning to use the City’s Homeless Work Program and voluntary participation from STAR Village users to provide cleaning services for the site and immediate surrounding area. Funding for the pilot will come from the budgets of the Mayor and Council offices, local nonprofits, and private fundraising. Community members can support the program by volunteering and donating through the Primavera Foundation at Primavera.org.
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