The Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness and Good Samaritan Shelter are celebrating the success of the La Posada Interim Housing Village, a collaborative initiative providing supportive transitional housing and wraparound services to individuals experiencing homelessness.

“Since opening its doors just over a year ago, La Posada has become more than a shelter, it has become a place of recovery, dignity, and forward movement for residents navigating complex challenges such as addiction, chronic illness, and trauma,” the county said.

“La Posada is saving lives,” said Sylvia Bernard, executive director for the Good Samaritan Shelter, during a recent housekeeping day involving residents and staff.

“The stories we are hearing are powerful reminders of what is possible when people are given a safe place to land and the support to rebuild,” she said.

Xylon (“X”), one of La Posada’s first residents, said that after five years on the street, he was hesitant to make the move, but it changed everything.

Now enrolled at SBCC, with a bank account, medical appointments, and dentures on the way, Xylon credits his counselor Irene, whose personal story has inspired him.

“This program is the best there is in Santa Barbara,” Xylon said. “I feel safe here.”

Gary, another resident, describes La Posada as “the reason I’m still alive.”

After surviving multiple health crises, including sepsis and a near-fatal heart attack, Gay said he has remained clean, is receiving dialysis, and is now on a kidney transplant list.

“When I wake up here, I have goals,” he said. “On the street, you give up hope; La Posada gives hope.”

Resident Timothy, is currently employed and pursuing his GED with dreams of becoming a case manager to help others. He said he appreciates the privacy, structure and independence La Posada provides.

“You’ve got to trust those who are trying to help,” he said. “Take the steps; they’ll lead somewhere.”

For Jason, La Posada has brought purpose. Currently volunteering in the culinary program, preparing meals for others, and participating in day programs has helped him stay grounded.

“They see me as an individual here,” he said. “It reminds me that I haven’t been forgotten.”

Their stories are testament to the impact of a stable environment, compassionate care, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves a path forward, according to Behavioral Wellness.

“We’re not just addressing homelessness,” said Toni Navarro, Behavioral Wellness director. “We’re addressing the underlying barriers and building a community of support.”

For more about La Posada or how to support the collaborative effort, contact the Department of Behavioral Wellness or Good Samaritan Shelter.

If you or someone you know needs assistance with linkage to services or is experiencing a behavioral health crisis, call the 24/7 Crisis and Access Line, 888-868-1649.