HomeFirst

HomeFirst is a community and social services organization. It works to end homelessness in the San Jose community through prevention, outreach, emergency shelter, interim housing, and permanent housing programs. Support includes flexible, one-time financial assistance for costs such as security deposits, application fees, utilities, and moving expenses, helping people secure or maintain housing. Outreach teams distribute kits with essential items to people living outside. HomeFirst also works with cities and counties on programs and systems addressing homelessness. At the Boccardo Reception Center, its six-month New Start work readiness program offers on-the-job training, industry certifications, employment support, and a training wage. The organization also provides meals, shelter, housing placement, care coordination, and skill-building workshops for people experiencing homelessness.