Programs

Founded in 1972, as a Marin County 501(c) nonprofit agency, the Novato Human Needs Center assists more than 4,000 community-based residents annually. Often referred to as the “heart of Novato,” our Center has been a gathering place for 40 years linking concerned citizens, donors, volunteers, and Novato residents who have specific needs.

As a Marin County nonprofit agency, the NHNC offers a variety of Community Services, Education, and Food programs to support Novato low-income individuals and families. These include:

Community Support Services:
These comprehensive services are provided to those who have immediate, critical needs and can be supported to move toward self-sufficiency through the following resources:

Supplemental Food Assistance:
• Low-income residents are invited to particiate in our weekly food program on Tuesdays from 1-4 p.m.
• Referrals to free dining rooms and other food pantries are available.

Rental and Critical Needs Assistance:
• One time financial assistance is available for families with children living in the home, seniors or disabled adults. Single adults at risk of being homeless may also be eligible depending upon availability of funds.
• Families who are homeless or are at risk of being homeless can be provided with a one-time payment of rent or mortgage to prevent a loss of housing.
• Grants for critical needs such as car repairs, medical bills and special equipment.

Holiday Share:
• Provides food, adult gifts and toys during the November and December Holidays.

Amigos De La Familia:
• Combines in-home visiting with wraparound services for families referred to NHNC from Children and Family Services of Marin County.
• This comprehensive case management model is used for all clients.
• Many of these families are already in the system , and other are “at risk” for entering the system.
• Services to be provided include in-home education, basic supportive services, homelessness prevention, interpreting and translation, in-home life skills training, and referral and advocacy.

Employment and Education Services:
• Provide job counseling and job search skills
• Assist clients in creating and/or updating their résume
• Assist clients in establishing an e-mail account in conjunction with their job search efforts
• Assist clients in completing employment applications using the internet
• Refer clients to appropriate agencies to sign up for ESL (English as a second language) classes

Thriving Families Initiative:
• Offers intensive case management for families to enhance their earning potential and improve family stability.

Client Service Hours:

The Center is open for services to clients Monday, Tuesday,
Wednesday and Thursday from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. and from 1- 4 p.m.

THE CENTER IS CLOSED FOR CLIENT SERVICES ON FRIDAYS.

  • “Poverty is a constant and arduous battle… the help you provided to me and my family makes a huge difference.”

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