"Missing Peace"
“Missing Peace” is the first CATA mural in Redwood City. Designed and painted by local artist Dodge Williams, the mural symbolizes how healing is a collaborative effort requiring not just the efforts of an individual but the support of friends, family and the local groups. Each person brings their own piece to the puzzle of creating greater overall peace and love in the community at large.
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Missing Peace is located on Emerald City Liquors at 3025 Jefferson Ave, Redwood City, California. The mural was made possible through the generous financial support of the Civic Cultural Commission of Redwood City and by patrons of the Open Paint by CATA event series.
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CATA and Dodge Williams have partnered with the Mental Health Association of San Mateo County (MHA) to encourage community collaboration in promoting healing and growth from individual struggles such as mental illness and homelessness. The MHA is a nonprofit organization that enriches quality of life, restores dignity, and reduces homelessness, particularly for those affected by mental illness and HIV/AIDS. MHA strengthens hope for healing by providing shelter, support and opportunities for socialization.
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Learn more below about the issues of homelessness and mental health in San Mateo County.
MORE ON HOMELESSNESS & MENTAL HEALTH
The Problem:
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Homelessness is when an individual lacks a fixed or adequate nighttime residence. Many homeless struggle with a psychiatric or emotional condition. Others suffer from a chemical dependency. In areas like San Mateo County where real estate prices have skyrocketed and find affordable housing is difficult, homelessness is a particularly pressing issue.
The Numbers:
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From the 2017 San Mateo County One-Day Homeless Count and Survey:
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From a “ snapshot” count on the night of January 25, 2017, there were 1,253 homeless people in San Mateo County comprised of:
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637 unsheltered homeless people (living on streets, in cars, in RVs, in tents/encampments),
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616 sheltered homeless people (in emergency shelters and transitional housing programs).
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In 2015, Redwood City had 300% more homeless than any other city in San Mateo County. While the homelessness level in Redwood City has decreased 58% between 2015 and 2017, Redwood City still ranks third highest in the San Mateo County.
Ending Homelessness:
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“People experiencing homelessness need housing above all else. Strategies and interventions must focus on returning households to safe, secure housing that they can use as a starting place to address other issues.” –Ending Homelessness in San Mateo County (July 2016)
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We believe the homelessness requires community collaboration not only to provide housing but to address poverty, addiction, mental health, and more. The problem is often too great for individuals to overcome alone.
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It is also important to recognize that, in the words of Redwood City’s Project Safe, homelessness is neither criminal in nature nor resolvable through criminal enforcement. We strive to care for — not punish — those that are homeless and support them in finding help as they are ready. They are our neighbors, brothers, sisters, parents, and children.
Take Action:
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READ:
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“Helping San Mateo County’s Homeless See A Way Home” (June 2017)
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San Mateo County One Day Homeless Count and Survey (May 2017)
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“Ending Homelessness in San Mateo County” (July 2016)
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“Struggling in the Shadow of Silicon Valley’s Wealth” (November 2014)
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VOLUNTEER OR DONATE:
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ADVOCATE:
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Attend the next meeting of the San Mateo County Housing Our People Effectively (HOPE) Interagency Council or
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Contact San Mateo County’s Center on Homelessness.
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Get Help:
The below agencies are some of those that provide housing and mental health services in San Mateo County:
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