The City of Vista's Standing Committee on Homelessness convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss critical initiatives aimed at addressing homelessness in the community. A key focus of the meeting was the approval of a substantial funding proposal to enhance outreach and housing support services, reflecting a growing commitment to tackle homelessness effectively.

The committee recommended a budget of $2.3 million to support the San Diego Rescue Mission's outreach efforts, which includes hiring six additional outreach workers and a clinical social worker. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive housing navigation and stabilization services, with the program set to run until June 30, 2026, with a potential extension of up to 12 months. The funding will cover operating costs, staff salaries, and flexible spending to ensure a robust response to the needs of the homeless population.

Daniel Schacht, the newly appointed director of outreach for North County, shared his personal journey from homelessness to social services, emphasizing the importance of consistent outreach in building trust and facilitating long-term solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness. Schacht outlined a multidisciplinary approach that includes collaboration with local authorities and the development of a "by name list" to identify and prioritize those with the highest needs.

The outreach team will focus on high-traffic areas identified by the city, engaging with individuals to assess their immediate needs and determine the best course of action, whether that be shelter, housing, or other support services. The introduction of a housing navigator role is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to bridge the gap between clients and landlords, facilitating successful housing placements.

Committee members expressed strong support for the proposed initiatives, highlighting the necessity of consistent outreach and the importance of data collection to track the effectiveness of services. They emphasized the need to understand where individuals go after receiving assistance, whether they seek family reunification, rental housing, or medical support.

As the city moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on providing compassionate and effective care to those in need, with the ultimate goal of reducing homelessness in Vista. The committee's commitment to enhancing outreach and support services marks a significant step towards addressing the complex challenges faced by the homeless community.