Sacramento, California, Church Launches Resource Center for Homeless Services Amid Lease Agreement Adjustments

Sacramento’s Bride’s Chamber church, a non-denominational congregation, has shifted its approach to supporting the homeless after a dispute with its landlord. Following a conflict earlier this year and complaints from nearby businesses, the church ceased hosting weekly pop-up events for the homeless in its parking lot. These events, organized by the church’s affiliated nonprofit Lifting Spirits Higher, provided food, prayer, and community support.

In response, the church launched “The Stoop Collaborative,” a resource center offering clothing, hygiene products, mental health connections, and assistance with housing and social programs. The initiative, which began operations on Monday, will initially operate by appointment only. Karina Garcia, the church’s minister and director, emphasized that the center is open to anyone in need, regardless of religious affiliation or attendance at services.

Garcia explained that the church and its landlord, Ethan Conrad Properties, reached an agreement to stop the pop-up events in the parking lot. The landlord confirmed that the church can continue offering resources to the homeless indoors, as long as it adheres to the lease terms. The church has been following this arrangement.

Advocates and outreach workers gathered at the opening of The Stoop Collaborative to highlight the ongoing struggles of the region’s homeless population. They noted the complexity of navigating housing and social assistance systems, especially for individuals without access to phones, transportation, or mailing addresses. The center aims to restore dignity and hope while helping people move toward permanent housing.

The Stoop Collaborative will be open on certain Mondays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Initially, services will be by appointment, with organizers planning to walk the neighborhood to locate those in need. Eventually, walk-ins will be allowed. Garcia said the church sent out neighborhood emails before the center’s opening to inform the community of its mission.

The church’s efforts reflect a commitment to serving neighbors in need, aligning with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable. Micah 6:8 reminds us that justice, mercy, and humility are central to living out faith in action.

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