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 35 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, Food and Transportation programs to support Novato low-income individuals and families. These include:
Emergency Food:
• A three-day emergency food supply is available for low-income people.
• Referrals to free dining rooms and other food pantries are available.
• Vouchers for items not stocked (baby food and formula) are available.
U.S. Surplus Food:
• We are the on-going Novato distribution site for surplus food from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
• Low-income residents can receive food once per month at the Novato Human Needs Center on Distribution Day, usually on the fourth Thursday each month.
• Hours of Distribution: 10 a.m. – Noon & 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
• A statement of income and proof of residency is required.
Clothing and Household Items:
• Vouchers for clothing and household items are available.
• A furniture exchange is maintained to match donors with clients through our Novato nonprofit organization.
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 and toys during the November and December Holidays. Read more.
Community Services:
• Include emergency food, clothing, rental assistance, and referrals.
Transportation Services
• Give free rides in our vans to thousands of seniors and disabled adults annually.
• We are also partners with the Novato Shuttle program, which offers rides at a nominal fee for all Novato residents. Call 892-7899 to schedule a ride.
Employment and Education Services
• Provide job counseling, job search skills and placement.
• English as a second language classes are hosted at our Center.
Thriving Families Initiative (Formerly FREE)
• Offers intensive case management for families to enhance their earning potential and improve family stability.
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS:
Amigos De La Familia Program
• 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.
School Linked Services: Differential Response Program
• This preventative program is designed to ensure that families are offered the help they need. • The Children and Family Services Community Specialist (Marin County) offers families information and available services from NHNC, and other available resources in the community.
• Our case managers will contact the family members and assist them as needed.
• All services offered are voluntary and are intended to help families overcome their challenges.
Novato School Readiness Program
• Provides a range of services to families with children ages 0-5.
• The Health Advocate builds partnerships with families, empowering parents as health advocates in their communities and encouraging their leadership participation in community health education programs.
• Some of the programs offered include Kinder Academy and a weekly play group.