La Posada Interim Housing Village Marks a Year of Hope and Progress

The County of Santa Barbara Department of Behavioral  Wellness and Good Samaritan Shelter are proud to celebrate the ongoing success of the La  Posada Interim Housing Village, a collaborative initiative providing supportive transitional  housing and wraparound services to individuals experiencing homelessness. 

Since opening its doors just over a year ago, La Posada has become more than a shelter—it has  become a place of recovery, dignity, and forward movement for residents navigating complex  challenges such as addiction, chronic illness, and trauma. The partnership between Behavioral  Wellness and Good Samaritan Shelter has created a foundation of stability, person-centered care,  and hope for the residents. 

“La Posada is saving lives,” said Sylvia Bernard, Executive Director for the Good Samaritan  Shelter, during a recent housekeeping day involving residents and staff. “The stories we are  hearing are powerful reminders of what is possible when people are given a safe place to land  and the support to rebuild.” 

Xylon (“X”), one of La Posada’s first residents, shared that after five years on the street, he was  hesitant to make the move—but it changed everything. Now enrolled at SBCC, with a bank  account, medical appointments, and dentures on the way, he credits his counselor Irene, whose  personal story has inspired him. “This program is the best there is in Santa Barbara,” Xylon said.  “I feel safe here.” 

Gary, another resident, describes La Posada as “the reason I’m still alive.” After surviving  multiple health crises, including sepsis and a near-fatal heart attack, he has remained clean, is  receiving dialysis, and is now on a kidney transplant list. “When I wake up here, I have goals. On  the street, you give up hope—La Posada gives hope.” 

Timothy, is currently employed and pursuing his GED with dreams of becoming a Case  Manager to help others. He appreciates the privacy, structure, and independence La Posada  provides. “You’ve got to trust those who are trying to help,” he said. “Take the steps—they’ll  lead somewhere.” 

For Jason, La Posada has brought purpose. Currently volunteering in the culinary program,  preparing meals for others, and participating in day programs has helped him stay grounded.  “They see me as an individual here,” he said. “It reminds me that I haven’t been forgotten.” 

La Posada Interim Housing Village Marks a Year of Hope and Progress Success Gained through County and Good Samaritan Shelter Collaboration 

Each of these stories is a testament to the powerful impact of a stable environment,  compassionate care, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves a path forward. With  continued support, La Posada is proving that recovery and reintegration are possible—and  happening every day—in Santa Barbara County. 

“We’re not just addressing homelessness,” said Toni Navarro, Behavioral Wellness Director,  “We’re addressing the underlying barriers and building a community of support.” 

For more information about La Posada or how to support this collaborative effort, please contact  the County of Santa Barbara Department of Behavioral Wellness or Good Samaritan Shelter. 

If you or someone you know needs assistance with linkage to services or is experiencing a  behavioral health crisis, please call the 24/7 Crisis and Access Line at (888) 868-1649.