Making Headway

Fighting homelessness showing success

About Town – FRIDAY, 8/16/24

Efforts to address Lodi’s homeless population continue to notch some successes. According to a recent report to the Lodi Committee on Homelessness, Lodi’s temporary homeless shelter on Sacramento Street got four clients into programs, helped reunite five people with their families, and assisted getting one individual into college. What’s more, the shelter had 1,897 “check-ins” in July. They served over 1,000 breakfasts, 1,172 lunches, and 586 dinners during the month. Over 1,100 showers were provided, and 991 overnight stays were recorded. The shelter is run by Inner City Action through a contract with the city. The contract will end once the new access center is built and open. The Salvation Army was tapped to manage the new access center when it’s finished sometime next year.

STOP AHEAD: Traffic signals are coming to the intersection of Guild Avenue and Victor Road. Travel in the area has increased dramatically as the Cepheid manufacturing plant has expanded. “Steady growth in the industrial area east of Highway 99 has resulted in additional traffic impacts,” say city staff. The project includes installing curb ramp, crosswalk, traffic signal and lighting improvements at the intersection. The estimated project cost is $1 million and will be paid from local impact fees. Victor Road is a Caltrans-owned roadway, and all improvements require their approval.

TAKING CARE: Who hasn’t been touched by a friend or family member with Alzheimer’s? As we all know, it’s a devastating disease. It hits hardest with family caregivers. There will be a free educational forum for family care partners on Wednesday, Aug. 21 in Crete Hall at Hutchins Street Square. The “Take Care to Give Care” event starts at 10 a.m. and will cover understanding Alzheimer's and dementia, and “navigating family dynamics of caregiving.” To register call 800-272-3900.

POLITICAL PAINT: It's happened again. Someone