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Welcome to Safe Space Chico

A radically low-barrier shelter serving Chico, California.
At Safe Space Winter Shelter Inc., we believe that everyone deserves a safe place to rest—no exceptions.

As Chico’s lowest-barrier emergency shelter, we offer seasonal, overnight refuge to individuals experiencing homelessness, without judgment and red tape. You won’t find breathalyzers or background checks here. Instead, you’ll find warmth, dignity, and community.

We operate under a “come as you are” philosophy, meaning:

  • No sobriety requirements

  • Couples can stay together

  • Pets are welcome (in limited numbers)

  • Everyone is treated with care and respect

What matters to us is behavior, not circumstance. Our only expectation is that all guests follow a simple code of conduct to keep the space safe for everyone.

Shelter by the Community, for the Community

We’re a volunteer-powered nonprofit built on compassion and collaboration. Each season, local congregations and community centers rotate as host sites, opening their doors for one or two weeks at a time. Volunteers show up nightly to register guests, serve meals, provide basic care, and create a welcoming environment where people can simply breathe, rest, and be.

We are not just a shelter—we are a movement for radical hospitality. Together, we meet people where they are and walk beside them, one night at a time.

Cool Air, Cold Drinks, Warm Welcome

When temperatures rise, Safe Space opens its doors as a Cooling Center, offering a safe, air-conditioned space for anyone needing relief from the heat. All are welcome—whether housed or unhoused, with pets or without. Guests can come in, cool off, grab a cold drink or snack, charge their phone, and rest in a respectful, low-barrier environment. No ID or intake required—just come as you are.

Our Cooling Center is a vital part of our mission to protect the health and dignity of our community during extreme weather.

Volunteering at our Cooling Center is a great first step into the heart of what Safe Space is all about. It’s a hands-on way to support our unhoused neighbors during Chico’s hottest days—offering cold water, snacks, and a safe place to rest. It’s also an opportunity to connect, listen, and learn. Many of our Cooling Center volunteers go on to help during our Winter Shelter season because it’s such a meaningful, welcoming experience. Whether you’re new to volunteering or just curious about what we do, this is a perfect place to start making a real impact.