Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has launched an emergency appeal to assist the dozens of soon-to-be-evicted families, which include 62 school-age children, who until recently were able to call Grand View Apartments in Paso Robles home.
After numerous unsuccessful attempts to halt, or at least extend the eviction process, 36 families will now lose their housing between Thanksgiving and Christmas, without a place to go.
“I am outraged and appalled about the situation and the events leading up to it,” said John Fowler, president/CEO of PSHH.
To include his organization’s own refused market rate offer to purchase the badly neglected property, area advocates have made many attempts to alleviate the plight of the Paso Robles families.
“As disappointed as I am, and wish this could be resolved differently, we are fully committed to doing everything possible to continue to stand by these vulnerable households in this terrible circumstance,” Fowler said.
As families scramble to pack up what little belongings remain to them, not damaged by either mold or vermin infestation, PSHH is seeking help from the Central Coast community on behalf of the affected families, by giving neighbors and concerned citizens an opportunity to lend support.
The Grand View Tenants Emergency Appeal needs support for relocation assistance to address temporary accommodation expenses, security deposits, replacement costs of clothing and bedding, food expenses during displacement, and ongoing medical and mental health services.
In pledging his organization’s full commitment, Fowler said, “In all my years in the housing sector, I have never been so dismayed. PSHH and other advocacy groups have already, and continue to, dedicate time and organizational resources to this shocking situation, but it is now time to bring a compassionate end to an utterly inhumane situation, so please help these vulnerable families today and make a generous donation. Especially as we come upon the holiday and giving season as we reflect on our own fortune.”
To make a gift to the Grand View Emergency Appeal, visit pshhc.org/grandview.
Founded in 1970, PSHH is the longest serving nonprofit affordable-housing organization on the Central Coast. With a mission of building homes and providing services to strengthen communities and change lives, PSHH serves low-income households, working families, seniors, veterans, those living with disabilities and the formerly homeless.
PSHH has a presence in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, manages some 1,900 rental units, and employs nearly 200 staff members. For more, visit pshhc.org, email info@pshhc.org or phone 805-781-3088.
— Peoples’ Self-Help Housing.