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Homeless Resources Offered At Scout Hall
city of riverbank

Cambridge Academies, in cooperation with the City of Riverbank, is bringing a program to those in need; a program called Riverbank Restart. Cambridge Academies Community Outreach Engagement Coordinator Deena Fernandez is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Scout Hall, 3017 High St., Riverbank, to assist those in need with resources and information.

Fernandez explained that she is always available for clients and if they cannot make it on Tuesdays and Wednesdays they can call and make an appointment with her. She has been at the Scout Hall providing information and resources since June.

There were 32 clients on her roster and four have exited from the programs. During the hours on Tuesday and Wednesday, Fernandez has assisted clients with a number of items including aid in obtaining their social security card, birth certificate, and driver’s license as well as assistance with SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), SSI (Supplemental Security Income), or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance).

“Some are just doing follow ups,” said Fernandez. “The majority of the clients here are homeless clients that have followed through and they are using their resources. A lot of them have their driver’s license now or their birth certificates or they are receiving SSI. There are just a few more that we have to go.”

Riverbank Mayor Richard D. O’Brien has hosted meetings with members of the council, city staff, representatives of religious groups and others regarding the homeless population and possible solutions through the years. Due to funding that the city received through grants and from Senator Eggman for Riverbank’s homeless initiative, they were able to purchase a house on Sierra Street and another house to launch the Riverbank Restart program. The idea is to give those in need a place to get a fresh start with resources including housing, job assistance, a shower, and clean clothes.

“We are preparing them for the house to see who wants to be involved with that because you have to have an ID and certain paperwork to enter into the program,” added Fernandez.

For more information on the Restart program or resources, call 209-857-0154.