Dignity Day Empowers Unsheltered Community in Vallejo

The biannual Dignity Day event in Vallejo provided essential services and support to members of the unsheltered community, with a focus on compassion and community engagement. Held at the Solano Dream Center, this year’s event featured a variety of resources aimed at uplifting those in need. Dr. Michael Hester, who founded Dignity Day in 2021, emphasized the importance of listening, loving, and learning, stating that the event serves as a beacon of hope for many.

As of 1 p.m. on the day of the event, officials reported that approximately 96 individuals had attended, benefiting from offerings such as new clothing, shoes, solar-powered backpacks, and personal care services including haircuts and showers. Hester expressed his satisfaction, noting, “Everyone is excited to get new clothes, backpacks, all these supplies. I feel great knowing that I’m fulfilling the will of God and that I’m seeing so many smiles on people’s faces.”

Participants shared their experiences, highlighting the immediate impact of the services provided. John Garcia, a member of the unsheltered community, left with a new haircut and a bag filled with essential items. “What did I like the best about this event? Everything. Everything was here,” he said, reflecting the overall sentiment of gratitude among attendees. Denise Bouwsma, another participant, shared her joy at having access to showers and new footwear, saying, “This event is great. Everyone is so nice.”

The event saw contributions from numerous volunteers and organizations dedicated to supporting the unsheltered. Karen Banks, a volunteer who helped manage the shower facility, noted that many participants emerged feeling rejuvenated. “Everyone keeps coming out of the shower feeling like a new person,” she remarked, underscoring the transformative nature of such services.

Another volunteer, Paula Vargas, managed a clothing distribution tent, which provided vital supplies such as underwear, hoodies, and hygiene products. “It’s a blessing. We’re able to bless these people. We’re no better than they are. We are all God’s people,” Vargas stated, emphasizing the communal spirit of the day.

This year, a new feature included a salon offering facials, which proved popular among attendees. Youth volunteers like Lillianna Brown, age 13, participated in providing these services, demonstrating the event’s inclusive nature.

While Dignity Day aims to address immediate needs, it occurs within a broader context of rising homelessness in Vallejo. According to the Solano County’s 2024 Point in Time homeless count, homelessness in the city surged by 50 percent from 2022 to 2024, with 682 individuals experiencing homelessness at some point during this period. The Bay Area as a whole saw a similar increase of 6 percent in 2024.

Despite the challenges, there have been some positive developments in the city. The Blue Oak Landing Project, a 74-unit permanent supportive housing initiative, has been fully occupied since June 2023. Additionally, the long-awaited 125-bed Navigation Center opened in June, providing crucial services like case management and healthcare for residents.

Nevertheless, the Broadway Project, initially budgeted at $9 million, has faced significant delays and increased costs, now totaling $27 million. Former city officials have criticized it as “a financial catastrophe,” complicating the city’s efforts to address homelessness effectively.

Dr. Hester also raised concerns about the annual encampment sweeps in Vallejo, which he likened to a game of “Whac-A-Mole.” He argued that removing individuals from their encampments without providing alternative housing exacerbates their struggles and erodes their dignity. “Sweeps are disrupting the lives of people that have already seen their lives disrupted multiple times,” he said.

Looking ahead, Hester is already planning the next Dignity Day, expected to take place on the second Saturday in April. The ongoing support from various organizations, including Solano County Behavioral Health and Lighthouse Covenant Fellowship Church, remains vital as the community seeks to collaborate on long-term solutions to homelessness.

In the face of growing challenges, events like Dignity Day serve as a reminder of the power of community action and compassion in addressing the needs of the unsheltered.