Modesto is in Search of Host Site Partners for Bridge Housing Projects!

For nearly a decade, the City of Modesto has proactively worked to address the challenge of homelessness alongside Stanislaus County and public-private sector partners. In November 2023, the Modesto City Council unanimously approved the concept of bridge housing as a significant component of our strategy and allocated $3 million of Measure H funding to assist with the purchase of bridge housing units and the required infrastructure to accommodate the sites.

This initiative aligns with feedback from the City of Modesto's Fall 2025 Community Engagement Survey, in which 83% of respondents indicated its important for the City to pursue projects addressing homelessness. With 53% of those respondents supporting the increase of partnerships with nonprofits to provide support services to unhoused individuals. The investment toward bridge housing demonstrates the City's commitment to finding practical solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. The City of Modesto is actively seeking partners to consider for bridge housing host sites, service providers, and site operators.

What is bridge housing?

Bridge housing is a temporary shelter accommodation for individuals or families who are transitioning out of homelessness. It serves as a "bridge" between emergency shelter facilities and permanent housing options. Bridge housing units are traditionally tiny, manufactured homes of approximately 60 to 80 square feet for individuals, and about 120 to 150 square feet for couples or families.

How effective is bridge housing in addressing homelessness?

Bridge housing provides a safe and supportive environment for people in need, offering a range of services and resources to help them regain stability and independence. In 2025 the City of Modesto supported the development of two bridge housing projects created in partnership with nonprofit organizations, housing developers, and regional agencies.

Dignity Village is a 42-unit bridge housing community developed with access to essential amenities such as dining, shower, and laundry facilities along with on-site support to behavioral health services, creating a clear pathway to stability and permanent housing. Between July 1, 2025, through July 14, 2026, Dignity Village has served 97 individuals. Of the 62 individuals who left Dignity Village, 19 of those individuals moved into a permanent supportive housing destination and 24 transitioned into additional temporary housing destinations. The gradual success of this project illustrates the potential of public-private partnerships in creating housing options for people experiencing homelessness in our community.

Building on the success of Dignity Village, the City also supported the development of Grace Gardens. A 12-unit bridge housing project located on the Modesto Gospel Mission main campus. This project is administered by the Mission serving individuals and families facing homelessness by providing access to meals, laundry, and shower facilities. Residents can also be connected to healthcare and substance-use treatment services to help meet immediate needs and support their transition to permanent housing within the first six months of residency. Between July 1, 2025, through July 14, 2026, Grace Gardens has served 31 individuals. Of the 17 individuals who exited Grace Gardens, 12 moved into permanent housing. This innovative program speaks to the meaningful change that community partners can build together.

How can you become a bridge housing partner?

The City of Modesto is soliciting Requests for Qualifications (RFQ) for host sites, service providers, and site operators. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the Community Development Division to schedule an appointment and learn more about the opportunity of becoming a bridge housing partner.

Organizations are not required to have prior bridge housing program experience or be affiliated with a pending bridge housing project. Based on the proposed sites and available funding, the City will aim to partner eligible sites with eligible service providers and operators for a successful bridge housing project. The City cannot undertake this effort alone, community partnerships are critical to addressing homelessness and moving these projects forward to continue making an impact in our community.

If your organization is interested to learn more or ready to complete the RFQ form, visit the City of Modesto website. City staff is always available for questions and technical assistance by appointment. To schedule an appointment, please contact the Community Development Division by email at [email protected] or by phone at 209-577-5211.