Between 45 and 60 people visit MHALA’s Homeless Service Center in Lancaster each day to get connected to various services and supplies. From food, hygiene kits, and groups like employment and self-care to connections to services, these individuals get access to resources that can help them improve their quality of life until they get linked to permanent housing.
“People are not coming into the center just to take advantage of what’s there, but to also get linked to MHALA services,” said Jannette Rinkenberger, director of outreach services, North County. “Our goal is to be able to provide individuals with the services needed to get them inside until they get linked to permanent housing.”
Food donations from organizations such as Voices of Our Youth, Quartz Hill Food Pantry, Costco, and Starbucks provide snacks and beverages.
Healthcare is also available at the center each week. The Los Angeles County Department of Health Services brings a mobile healthcare van to provide exams, x-rays, testing, and other medical services. Bartz-Altadonna Community Health Center provides HIV testing and education.
People needing services can receive them Monday through Friday, from 9am-2pm, at 506 W. Jackman St., Lancaster, CA 93534.
Donations of supplies such as food, snacks, beverages, hygiene kits, and laundry detergent, can also be dropped off during business hours.
