Connections closes doors in Mariposa.

(The following was posted on social media on Monday, July 27, concerning Mariposa County’s closure of the homeless facility known to the community as Connections.)

Hello, everyone.

As a heads up, I was informed that Connections permanently closed today at 5:00 p.m. Connections was operated by The Alliance for Community Transformations, and the program was no longer financially sustainable.

The County explored options to continue shelter operations under another nonprofit provider but was ultimately unable to secure an organization that could sustainably operate the program. A variety of factors contributed to that outcome, including the costs associated with the property where the shelter was located, the expense of meeting the required 24/7 staffing model etc. a few of the pallet homes will likely be moved to an area near HHSA on County Property to house some individuals.

At the time of closure, approximately 15 individuals remained at the shelter, down from 36. Those 15 or so individuals did not accept the services or alternative housing options that had been offered. Mariposa County Health and Human Services (HHSA) will continue outreach efforts and work with these individuals. As I’ve shared before, however, accepting services is ultimately a personal choice by law.

The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office is aware of the closure, is paying close attention to the surrounding area, and will continue monitoring the situation and engaging individuals using their positive policing model. Throughout this process, a variety of options have been offered, including housing opportunities, reunification with family members both locally and outside the area, and other supportive services. If laws are broken, individuals are engaged and heald accountable while also being offered help.

I know many people will have questions and concerns. I’ll continue to share updates as more information becomes available.