Dozens served at county’s Homelessness Prevention Resource Fair

Office of Homeless Services team members assist attendees at the Homelessness Prevention Resource Fair on May 7.

The San Bernardino County Office of Homeless Services hosted a Homelessness Prevention Resource Fair last week to offer financial assistance, case management and other vital resources to prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless.

The event was held on May 7 at Ecclesia Christian Fellowship in San Bernardino and featured a variety of county departments and community organizations that provided employment resources, hygiene products, mental health therapy, animal services, and information on housing programs, legal services, CalFresh, CalWORKs and Medi-Cal. Participating agencies included the county’s Office of Homeless Services, Behavioral Health, Transitional Assistance, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Children and Family Services and Public Health departments as well as Lighthouse Social Services, the Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino, Inland County Legal Services, the San Bernardino Animal Services Department and Inland SoCal United Way.

“In addition to our rapid rehousing services, we’re also deeply committed to homelessness prevention,” said Marcus Dillard, chief of homeless services. “Through this event, we were able to offer financial assistance to those who’ve been struggling to pay their rent and utilities so they can remain in their homes.”

Prior to the event, the Office of Homeless Services team worked closely with local landlords to inform tenants about the event and distribute event flyers. One of the individuals who received a flyer said the resource fair has made a tremendous difference for her.

“This event has given me a sense of empowerment in knowing that I will get assistance,” said Rasheeda Ballard. “I’m not working right now because I’m recovering from brain surgery, so I’m three months behind in my rent. That can be a weight for someone who just had surgery. The staff has been helping me fill out the application, which is encouraging because I’m still facing some challenges in my recovery.”

Another resident who attended the resource fair also found the event to be very helpful.

“There’s a lot of great resources here for parents, especially single parents, to see if they can get help with rent. It’s also a great opportunity to meet with service providers and get answers to questions,” said Lundi Fenner.

One of the county’s key partners in addressing homelessness has been the city of San Bernardino, which contributed to the event by having its Animal Services Department offer free pet supplies, animal vaccines and microchipping.

“Providing pet supplies and free animal services can help ease the financial burden for families who are already struggling to make ends meet,” said San Bernardino City Councilmember Mario Flores, who attended the event. “We hope these resources help alleviate some of the financial strain so families can focus on maintaining their housing.”

As someone who is currently facing financial hardship, a third resident found the employment resources and financial assistance programs to be invaluable as she makes an effort to get back on her feet.

“I lost my job while trying to care for my father who recently passed away from leukemia,” said Tashanique “Tash” Ward. “I’m looking for any type of assistance I can get to help me stay in my home so I can focus on finding a new job. I was able to connect with a job placement company at the resource fair, which was really helpful.”

In all, 47 individuals and families were able to access the resources they needed to be able to stay in their homes.

“We are proud to host this event to provide relief to individuals and families who are struggling to pay their rent due to hardships that are beyond their control,” said Celia Hernandez, event organizer and program specialist with the Office of Homeless Services. “We hope this event was able to provide the support that they need to move forward.”

The Office of Homeless Services is planning to host another Homelessness Prevention Resource Fair in the future. If you or someone you know needs assistance with housing programs, please contact Celia Hernandez by emailing celia.hernandez@hss.sbcounty.gov.

Additional County Update News – May 15, 2025