Our Mission

Shores of Hope supports at-risk individuals in navigating their challenges, stabilizing their situations, and enhancing their capabilities. Our goal is to sustain their development and inspire each person to discover and embrace their inherent self-worth.

Our mission in action

Since 1946, Shores of Hope has been a pillar of support for the homeless population, evolving our services to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. Today, we offer a range of comprehensive programs designed to empower individuals experiencing hardship and help them regain stability and independence.

Holistic Services for the Homeless Community

Our outreach programs include essential resources such as:
  • A permanent mailing address for receiving benefits and communications
  • Access to an Emergency Food and Clothing closet
  • Distribution of hygiene kits
  • Case management services tailored to individual needs

Supporting Transition-Age Foster Youth

Since 2016, Shores of Hope has been dedicated to housing and mentoring transition-age foster youth. We provide a structured yet supportive environment that includes:
  • Safe, stable housing
  • Mentoring and life skills training
  • Educational opportunities
  • Referrals for essential benefits and services, including Medi-Cal
  • Financial literacy coaching to help youth manage their resources effectively
  • Assistance in securing permanent housing for long-term stability

In 2018, we launched a scattered-site Interim Housing Program in the City and County of Sacramento. This initiative specifically addresses the unique challenges faced by foster youth aging out of traditional programs. Extending support to individuals up to age 24, this program provided young people transitioning out of TAY (Transition Age Youth) services with the guidance they needed to achieve independence.

Empowering Families Through our Childcare Center

At Shores of Hope, we understand the vital role of accessible, affordable childcare in creating pathways to stability for families. Our licensed Childcare Center provides:

  • A safe, nurturing environment for children 3-5 years old to learn and grow
  • Developmentally appropriate activities that foster emotional, cognitive, and social growth
  • Flexible childcare options to meet the needs of working parents
  • Resources and referrals for families seeking additional support

By supporting parents and caregivers, our Childcare Center enables families to focus on securing employment, housing, and other critical needs, knowing their children are in trusted care. This program is a cornerstone of our commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for future generations.

Collaboration for Greater Support

We are proud to be an active member of Yolo County’s Continuum of Care and the Homeless and Poverty Action Coalition (HPAC). Through collaboration with partners such as the California Family Health Council, California Office of Emergency Services, the City of West Sacramento, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Yolo County Point-in-Time (PIT) Count team, and the West Sacramento Mercy Coalition of local churches, we work together to extend impactful outreach and support services to the homeless population.

An example of our impact

In September 2023, SR joined Shores of Hope’s Transitional Housing Program while six months pregnant. As a young, single mother, she faced significant road blocks but remained determined to build a brighter future. During her pregnancy, SR completed her high school diploma, secured employment, and prepared a comfortable nursery for her baby boy before birth.

After her son was born, SR was able to arrange childcare and maintain full-time employment, working at least 40 hours a week. Her commitment to utilizing her resouces and financial stability allowed her to save diligently to purchase a vehicle within five months of her child’s birth.

Throughout her time at Shores of Hope, SR embraced growth, maintained a savings plan, and became an exceptional mother. Eventually she was able to save enough money to transition out of our program and secure more permanent housing close to her sister in the Los Angeles area.  Her journey demonstrates the power of determination and support, and we are proud to have been part of her inspiring transition into living independently.

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Meet our team

Nanette Fowler

Executive Director

Leslie Giovanini

Director of Programs & Operations

Fonda Whitney-Ramirez

Director of Housing

Anthony Giovanini

Director of Community Outreach

Cathlean Ripley

Childcare Site Supervisor

Updates

Join the cause

Help us create positive change as a team member.

Shores of Hope is always seeking compassionate and responsible individuals with a strong passion to work with people in our most underserved communities. If you are interested in applying to work with us please fill out and submit the form below, and include a resume and cover letter letting us know how you can help us make a difference.

Our partners

Make it Happen for Yolo County has been so grateful for our alliance with Shores of Hope. We supply household goods and furniture to those who live in the supportive housing they provide to under-resourced transition age youth. Our shared commitment to this population provides these young adults with the essential resources needed for a brighter future and reflects our joint investment in this community.