Modesto City Councilmember Nick Bavaro didn’t have a chance to speak at the March 27 ribbon-cutting ceremony for the city’s new Dignity Moves Village for the homeless and mentally ill on 9th and D Streets. At the ribbon-cutting, Bavaro was credited for bringing the idea to establish Dignity Village to the City Council a little over two years ago. At the same time, he also approached Stanislaus County Supervisor Mani Grewal with the idea. Grewal was supportive and agreed to help pursue the project.
Had he spoken, Bavaro would have credited volunteer outreach worker and SHARE (Stanislaus Housing and Resource Enterprise) member Frank Ploof for recommending the Dignity Moves facility when Bavaro visited Santa Barbara in late February of 2023. Ploof may be the single best informed person on local homeless issues in the entire county. Bavaro found that out early on, when he made a study of homelessness prior to running for office.
“Frank Ploof is my homeless advisor and advocate,” said Bavaro. “When I told him I was going to Santa Barbara, he said I should visit Dignity Village. While I was there, I visited the village and was impressed by the whole operation.”
Dignity Village features truly tiny homes; most are 64-70 square feet. The compact space includes a bed, a small desk or table, and shelves for storage, as well as built in heating and air conditioning. Community restrooms and dining facilities are on site. With capacity for 42 residents, Dignity Village will provide shelter and services for mentally ill homeless people as part of California’s bridge housing program…