Chris Rogers Visits Del Norte: A Step Forward for Housing & Community Development

Written By True North

September 17, 2024—True North had the honor of hosting Chris Rogers, candidate for California Assembly, for a visit to DNATL. His visit marked an important opportunity to highlight the urgent need for housing solutions, economic development, and environmental sustainability in our region while showcasing the power of community-driven initiatives.

The tour began with a visit to Del Norte’s homeless encampments, where Chris had the opportunity to see firsthand the realities faced by individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. He witnessed the living conditions they face, including lack of stable shelter, access to basic services, and barriers to long-term housing.

Chris Rogers seeing first-hand a homeless encampment site.

True North and local leaders emphasized that addressing homelessness requires more than temporary relief—it demands sustainable, long-term solutions that create real opportunities for stability and growth.

Following the two visits to encampments, the group took Chris to the future site of Del Norte’s 60-unit transitional tiny home village and 60-bed emergency shelter—an initiative that has been six years in the making.

This transitional housing project is designed to provide not only shelter but also wraparound support services to help residents regain stability and work toward permanent housing. The tiny home village, situated next to the new emergency shelter, will provide safe, community-oriented housing that fosters dignity, independence, and a pathway forward.

Chris Rogers engaged in deep discussions with local leaders, organizers, and community members about the scope of the project and its potential impact. He commended the community’s persistence and collaboration, recognizing that rural communities like Del Norte face unique barriers in securing state and federal funding for housing solutions. His support for policies that prioritize community-driven solutions reinforced the importance of grassroots efforts in shaping sustainable change.

Following the tour, True North convened a roundtable discussion with community and tribal leaders. The conversation extended beyond housing, diving into key topics shaping the future of Del Norte:

  • Economic development and job creation tailored for rural areas.

  • The role of Green and Blue industries in leveraging Del Norte’s forests, rivers, and coastal resources for sustainable economic growth.

  • Environmental stewardship and its connection to public health and economic resilience.

  • The power of community organizing in shaping policy and creating long-term change.

Chris Rogers actively engaged in these discussions, listening to the needs and aspirations of Del Norte residents. He expressed strong support for locally-led solutions, recognizing that policy decisions at the state level must be informed by the voices of those on the ground.

True North remains committed to creating sustainable housing solutions, strengthening economic opportunities, and ensuring that rural communities are not left behind in statewide policies.

We extend our gratitude to Chris Rogers for his time, engagement, and commitment to working alongside rural communities. His visit underscored the importance of listening to those most affected by systemic challenges and ensuring they have a seat at the decision-making table.

True North