June 14, 2023

Yesterday, the City of Garden Grove, in partnership with the Cities of Fountain Valley and Westminster broke ground for the Central Cities Navigation Center, a referral-based, transitional facility offering emergency housing and wrap-around services to individuals experiencing homelessness from any of the three cities. Located in an existing building at 13871 West Street in Garden Grove, the Central Cities Navigation Center is anticipated to open in Spring 2024.

“The start of the Central Cities Navigation Center brings us closer to helping those who are seeking more than just shelter, but also the stability of permanent housing, employment, and personal health and wellness. In collaboration with our Be Well OC in Garden Grove Mobile Response Unit, our street medicine program with CalOptima Health, the Garden Grove Police Department Special Resources Team, and other efforts, we're creating solutions to homelessness on several fronts. My thanks to the cities of Westminster and Fountain Valley for their valuable support and partnership in this wonderful endeavor,” said Garden Grove Mayor Steve Jones.

The facility will operate 24 hours per day, seven days per week, serve approximately 170 adults, and provide up to 100 beds. Among the residential services, clients will receive three daily meals, access to laundry facilities, pet accommodation, and transportation to and from the facility.

Support services will include 1-on-1 case management, mental health and stabilization resources, substance use counseling, education services and life-skills development, employment assistance, and job training.

"Today marks a defining moment in our collective commitment to compassionate and effective solutions to assist the unhoused. I am deeply humbled and honored to break ground on the Central Cities Navigation Center, a symbol of unity and cooperation between Fountain Valley, Westminster, and Garden Grove. This project is a testament to our shared belief that every individual deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity for a brighter future. Together, we are building more than a center, we are building hope for a better tomorrow for all of our residents," said Fountain Valley Mayor Kim Constantine.

The County of Orange will contribute a total of $11.5 million for the project, with $5.3 million going to construction/renovation, and $6.2 million for operations. The three cities will contribute to the annual cost of operations over the next 10 years. The operating cost for the 2023/24 Fiscal Year is approximately $2.6 million.

“This navigation center is a very big, proactive step to taking accountability and action in the fight to end homelessness in our community. Westminster is committed to helping our most vulnerable residents and addressing their needs by providing the tools and resources necessary. We thank our neighboring cities of Garden Grove and Fountain Valley for supporting this collaborative effort, and also the County of Orange for their contributions toward this navigation center,” said Westminster Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen.

For more information visit www.ggcity.org/navigation-center.