What the Interim Shelter program at 350 Merrydale Road provides
be required to work with a case manager to create an individualized housing plan, and length of stays are flexible to allow enough time for progress while always focusing on the transition to long-term housing. Other supportive services include:
- Case management and housing navigation
- Health and substance use support
- Employment counseling and job resources
- Referrals to permanent housing
- Support for residents with pets, including a designated pet area and veterinary care
- The goal for the program is for residents to stay less than 18 months as they transition into a permanent placement.
The Interim Shelter Site will be operated by Foege Schumann Global Disaster Solution will be operated by Foege Schumann Global Disaster Solutions (FS Global). Since 2024, FS Global has successfully managed the Sanctioned Camping Area in San Rafael, building strong relationships with residents through consistent support and respectful day-to-day management. Their team includes staff with lived experience of homelessness, which helps foster trust and ensures that services are delivered with compassion and dignity.
Case management and housing navigation will be provided by Marin nonprofit partners, including St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin, Ritter Center, Catholic Charities, and others.
Safety and Security
Safety is a top priority. Rules will be enforced to ensure safety and accountability, and violations may result in dismissal from the program.
Safety and security measures include:
- 24/7 professional security and controlled entry with bag checks
- Perimeter fencing and lighting
- Fire extinguishers and regular inspections by the Fire Department
- Clear Code of Conduct and Good Neighbor Policy for all program participants
Who Can Participate
The Interim Shelter Site is intended to serve people already experiencing homelessness in San Rafael. The City will review eligibility to make sure the program prioritizes individuals currently staying at the Sanctioned Camping Area (SCA), along Andersen Drive, and in other San Rafael encampments.
Funding and Accountability
The total cost of the project includes $7.3 million for land acquisition, $1.6 million for site and program setup, and approximately $2 million per year in ongoing operating costs. This partnership is made possible through a braided funding approach that combines resources from the City and County’s State Encampment Resolution Fund – Round 3 Grant, the County’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund, and local contributions from both the City and County. Continued operations in future years will be supported through fundraising efforts and philanthropic donations.
Success will be measured by the number of residents who transition into permanent housing. The City and County will also monitor improvements in resident health, stability, and participation in supportive services. Progress will be reported publicly on the City’s project website that you can subscribe to for automatic updates, and via the City’s Homelessness and Housing website, and E-Newsletter to ensure transparency and accountability.
Why This Site Was Chosen
For over two years, the City has been searching for a viable site to create an interim shelter program. After this search, 350 Merrydale Roa was selected because it is flat, accessible to transit and services, large enough for cabins and shared facilities, within the budget for the City and County, and can later be redeveloped into permanent affordable housing, available to anyone.
Long-Term Housing Goal
Beyond the time-limited funds available to operate the interim shelter site, the City’s long-term goal is to develop more than 80 units of affordable housing at 350 Merrydale Road. The City is in the early stages of planning and will ultimately partner with an affordable housing developer to bring these permanent homes to our community.
Stay Informed
Updates will be posted to the City website. Sign up for the City’s homelessness response newsletter for email updates.
