What is the Safe Parking Program?

The Safe Parking Program in Oceanside is a structured program operated by Dreams for Change, a non-profit organization experienced in administrating safe parking programs and connecting participants to pathways towards housing navigation. The program provides a safe, legal, and managed overnight location for individuals and families experiencing homelessness who are living in their vehicles. The program operates from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and pairs designated parking with on-site case management, housing referrals, and security support.

Why is the program moving to the Country Club Senior Center parking lot?

The current location at 1919 Apple Street is no longer viable. The Senior Center parking lot at 455 Country Club Lane was selected because it offers improved site stability, proximity to transit and supportive services, enhanced ability for staff to monitor safety, and reduced impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. The new location also provides the opportunity to expand services, with the capacity to serve up to 50 vehicles per night. City staff reviewed and confirmed that the site is appropriate for program operations.

Will this affect senior center services or access?  Why is it near the Boys & Girls Club?

The program operates exclusively from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. — only while the Senior Center is closed.  The Boys & Girls Club programs end by 6:00 p.m. and are closed on the weekends. All Safe Parking Program participants must leave the lot by 6:00 a.m., with oversight by security -- well before the Senior Center opens for the day. Senior programming and access will not be disrupted in any way.

Who is eligible to access the program?

Individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness and living in their cars are eligible for the Safe Parking Program. Participants must agree to follow program guidelines and work with case managers to connect to housing and supportive services.

Will there be supervision?

Yes. The Safe Parking Program will have on-site security and Dreams for Change staff to provide case management and housing navigation services. While case management is not offered overnight, case managers are available during scheduled hours to meet with participants and provide ongoing support.

Will participants be using the Senior Center building or restrooms?

No. The Senior Center building will be closed and inaccessible during program hours. The Safe Parking Program will provide its own portable restrooms and handwashing stations on site for participant use.

How does this help address homelessness — isn't this just enabling it?

A Safe Parking Program is a structured, time-limited intervention that helps address homelessness by providing a safe and managed place for individuals and families living in their vehicles while they work toward permanent housing. Rather than enabling homelessness, it reduces instability, improves safety, and creates a consistent point of engagement for case management and service coordination. Participants are connected to housing navigation, employment resources, healthcare, and benefits, which increases the likelihood of stabilization and housing placement. By centralizing vehicle habitation into a monitored and service-linked environment, the program supports both public safety and meaningful pathways out of homelessness.

How much does this cost, and where does the money come from?

The program will cost $329,329 for 2026. It is funded entirely by Measure X, the half-cent sales tax measure voters approved for community priorities. The Measure X Citizens Oversight Committee reviewed and recommended the funding on January 22, 2026.

Who approved this program?

The program was reviewed by City staff, the City Attorney, and the Measure X Citizens Oversight Committee. The City Council reviewed and approved this program in February 2026. Staff Report Dreams for Change, the program operator, is a vetted professional non-profit services contractor with an existing agreement with the City of Oceanside.

What accountability measures are in place?

The City will require regular reporting, improved data tracking, and measurable performance outcomes tied to funding. Program results will be monitored to ensure funding is spent effectively and that participants are progressing toward housing stability.

What happens if there are problems?

The City retains authority to modify program hours or operations if challenges arise. Staff are coordinating on site logistics and operational readiness. Concerns can be directed to the City's Customer Care line at (760) 435-4500 or by emailing customercare@oceansideca.org