ECHO - El Camino Homeless Organization
ECHO is the only homeless shelter serving north San Luis Obispo County. ECHO is a volunteer-based, grass-roots shelter that began in 2001 and has never had a closed night. ECHO has 50 beds, four family rooms, and is ADA compliant. Of the beds occupied each evening, about 60% are for children and their parents. ECHO clients are required to work with case managers to develop an action plan to get back home and become self-sufficient. Clients have 90 days to work their plans, and may have more time if necessary. ECHO has an ongoing Job Search Workshop taught by a volunteer who helps clients search online for employment, write resumes, and practice interviewing. ECHO is a clean and sober shelter. Every adult is breathalyzed each evening and there is random drug testing. Every evening, ECHO partners with a community group to provide uo to 80 deals to anyone who is hungry.