Find Reno Homeless Shelters, Emergency Housing and Transitional Housing Near You

We Help Homeless People in Reno, Nevada: A City's Promise to Everyone

Here in Reno, we call ourselves "The Biggest Little City in the World." There's casinos, lights, and art. But behind the glitz, there's a big problem—homelessness. Many of us don't have a home, but our city tries hard to help.

How Reno Helps Homeless People

Reno makes programs to help. Do you know about the Clean and Safe Program and Reno Works? They not only clean up camps but also helps people learn skills. Find jobs, get support—Reno wants that. People shouldn't just survive; they should thrive.

The Nevada Cares Campus: A Safe Place

In August 2021, something big happened. The Nevada Cares Campus went to Washoe County. Cities worked together—Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County. The campus is big, one of the biggest shelters. It is for men, women, couples, even pets! By putting all services in one place, better help is given.

Over time, the campus grew. Started as a temporary shelter, now it's bigger. Bathrooms, showers, laundry, and dorms with privacy are there. In 2023, a new Welcome Center opened. It makes getting help easier—health care, case management, and support for mental health or addiction.

Problems at the Nevada Cares Campus

Even with improvements, problems stay. People say there's theft, drugs, and even violence. Security was added, but it's hard to control everything. More work is needed to make it safe and comfy for all.

By end of 2022, sad news came. Almost 100 homeless people died, nearly double from before. It was a wake-up call. City leaders and others talked about doing more. We've made good progress, but there's a long way to go.

As Homelessness Grows, What's Next?

In 2023, new numbers showed more homeless people. Efforts are made, but more need help. Advocates push for talking directly to homeless folks. By listening, better programs can be made.

Reno gets ready for cold months. Living outside is dangerous then. The community works to give everyone a safe place, warm clothes, and food.

Long-Term Solutions

Reno doesn't just want quick fixes. The goal is long-term answers to stop homelessness before it starts. Building more affordable homes is key. Many can't pay rent. Reno works to have enough homes for all.

The city helps those at risk of losing homes. Offering rent help, job training, and legal aid. By supporting people early, homelessness can be prevented.

Where to Get Help

If you're homeless or might be, there are places to help:

• Nevada Cares Campus: A big shelter for men, women, couples, and pets. Offers showers, laundry, job help, and services.
• Our Place: A shelter for women and families. Safe and supportive.
• Reno Works Program: Need a job? This program offers training, life skills, and support.
• Street Outreach Teams: They go out to help connect people with care and shelter.

Need food, shelter, health care, or someone to talk to? Reach out. Reno has services to help you find safety and support too.

Moving Forward: Reno's Promise

Homelessness is hard, but Reno works to help everyone find a safe place. From shelters to homes, the city wants to improve lives. The challenges are big, but so is the effort.

If you face homelessness, remember help is there. Programs like Nevada Cares Campus or Reno Works can be a first step. As we continue to work, Reno aims to make sure everyone has a chance to thrive and a place to call home.

According to the most recent Point-in-Time (PIT) count conducted in January 2024:

• 1,760 total individuals experiencing homelessness were counted in Washoe County[2]
• This represents an increase of 70 individuals compared to the 2023 PIT count
• There was an increase of 34 individuals in the unsheltered population
• An increase of 36 individuals were counted in shelters and transitional housing[2]

Nevada Cares Campus Updates

• In August 2023, Washoe County completed Phase 3 of the Nevada Cares Campus with the opening of a 20,000-square-foot Welcome Center[4]
• The 15-acre site now includes an emergency shelter, Safe Camp, Resource Center, Welcome Center, and dining hall[4]
• Phase 4, a 50-unit supportive housing unit, is currently under construction and expected to open in spring 2025[4]

New Initiatives

• In July 2023, Reno launched a new mobile app called DROPS (Direct Resource Outreach & Placement Service) to help outreach workers better assist the homeless population[13]
• The app allows workers to enter demographic data, track interactions, access services, and view analytics reports[13]

Reno's Affordable Housing Efforts

• In March 2024, the Reno Housing Authority announced a deal with Jacobs Entertainment to build 65 new affordable housing units in exchange for an older property[12]
• The $20 million development will be located on Second Street and is expected to break ground in a few years[12]

Where to Get Help

For those seeking assistance:

• Nevada Cares Campus: 775-329-4141[1]
• Washoe County Housing and Homeless Services: 775-325-8210 or RegionalHomelessServices@washoecounty.gov[5]
• Reno Housing Authority: Visit RenoHA.org or their office at 1525 E. 9th Street in Reno[11]

Frequently Asked Questions about Homelessness in Reno

Q: Are there any programs to help homeless people find jobs in Reno?

A: Yes, the Reno Works Program offers job training, life skills, and support to help homeless individuals find employment. Additionally, the Clean and Safe Program helps people learn skills and find jobs while also maintaining the cleanliness of the city.

Q: Where can homeless individuals or those at risk of homelessness get help in Reno?

A: There are several resources available:

• Nevada Cares Campus: 775-329-4141
• Washoe County Housing and Homeless Services: 775-325-8210 or RegionalHomelessServices@washoecounty.gov
• Reno Housing Authority: Visit RenoHA.org or their office at 1525 E. 9th Street in Reno
• Our Place: A shelter specifically for women and families
• Street Outreach Teams: These teams connect people with care and shelter services

Q: How many people are experiencing homelessness in Reno?

A: According to the most recent Point-in-Time (PIT) count conducted in January 2024, there were 1,760 individuals experiencing homelessness in Washoe County. This represents an increase of 70 individuals compared to the 2023 count.

Q: What is the Nevada Cares Campus?

A: The Nevada Cares Campus is one of the largest homeless shelters in the area, serving men, women, couples, and even pets. It offers various services including bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and dormitories. The campus also includes a Welcome Center, which provides access to healthcare, case management, and support for mental health and addiction.

Q: What efforts are being made to create affordable housing in Reno?

A: Reno is actively working on increasing affordable housing. For example, in March 2024, the Reno Housing Authority announced a deal to build 65 new affordable housing units. The city is also focusing on long-term solutions to prevent homelessness, including rent assistance programs and legal aid for those at risk of losing their homes.

Q: How is Reno addressing the challenges at homeless shelters?

A: Reno is continuously working to improve conditions at shelters. For instance, at the Nevada Cares Campus, security has been added to address safety concerns. The city is also focusing on expanding services, as evidenced by the recent opening of the Welcome Center and the ongoing construction of a 50-unit supportive housing unit expected to open in spring 2025.

Citations

1. https://www.washoecounty.gov/homeless/Cares-Campus/index.php
2. https://www.washoecounty.gov/homeless/CoC/pit/pit_2024.php
3. https://thisisreno.com/2024/05/county-homeless-count-shows-a-continued-increase-in-those-living-without-shelter/
4. https://washoelife.washoecounty.gov/washoe-county/washoe-county-opens-welcome-center-on-nevada-cares-campus/
5. https://nevadafund.org/nevada-cares-campus-fund/
6. https://thisisreno.com/2024/01/fact-check-has-reno-reduced-its-homeless-population-by-more-than-50/
7. https://washoelife.washoecounty.gov/washoe-county/washoe-county-communications-division-premieres-documentary-on-the-state-of-homelessness-in-washoe-county-launches-discussions-for-future-of-services-for-the-vulnerable/
8. https://www.voa-ncnn.org/services/reno-works/
9. https://www.renoha.org
10. https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/as-washoe-others-adopt-anti-camping-laws-advocates-and-homeless-fear-fallout
11. https://www.renoha.org/waitlists-open-for-affordable-housing-programs/
12. https://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/2024/mar/07/developer-to-build-65-affordable-housing-units-for-reno-housing-authority-in-swap/
13. https://statescoop.com/homelessness-outreach-reno-nevada-new-app-2024/
14. https://thisisreno.com/2024/09/council-gets-down-to-business-discussing-rental-assistance-affordable-housing-business-zoning-and-tree-protection/