A stormy day in SLO County, with blue text overlaid that says, "Now Accepting Proposals for Warming Centers in Atascadero, Morro Bay, and Paso Robles"

County of San Luis Obispo Seeking Proposals to Create New Warming Centers for People Experiencing Homelessness

Author: Homeless Services Division
Date: 1/29/2025 6:00 PM

Around $500,000 is available to create more shelter opportunities in three underserved communities: Atascadero, Morro Bay, and Paso Robles

San Luis Obispo, CA— The County of San Luis Obispo has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to establish warming centers in Atascadero, Morro Bay, and Paso Robles. During the 2024 Point-in-Time Count, these three areas were found to have some of the highest numbers of unsheltered individuals and, therefore, represent the areas of our community with the greatest need. This effort seeks to honor the humanity of individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness by providing safe, warm spaces during cold and wet weather.

“These warming centers will fill a critical gap for our unsheltered neighbors,” said Katlynn Beatty, Program Manager with the County of San Luis Obispo’s Homeless Services Division. “We know that cold and wet weather can be life-threatening, and it’s essential to provide safe and welcoming spaces during these conditions. This initiative will help ensure that every corner of our county has the resources needed to protect our most vulnerable community members.”

A total of $500,000 in funding is available to support operations for three warming centers during the 2025/2026 through 2027/2028 seasons, with potential extensions into 2028/2029. The funded warming centers will operate on nights when temperatures fall below 38°F or there is a 50% or higher chance of precipitation. 

Warming center operators will be asked to provide their guests will a warm meal, a safe place to sleep, and a to-go breakfast, serving as entry points into the County’s homeless and housing care network. Proposals will be evaluated based on location, geographic reach, operational capacity, and experience serving people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.

“This is an opportunity for organizations to create new solutions for our community,” added Jeff Al-Mashat, Administrative Services Manager. “By participating in this effort, you will play an essential role in fostering compassionate spaces that provide safety and hope for those facing unsheltered homelessness.”

The Request for Proposals is open now, with applications due by February 26, 2025, at 3:00pm. More details can be found at slocounty.gov/HomelessServicesGrants.