The San Mateo County Event Center demonstrates its strong support for the San Mateo community through its positive economic impact, hosting numerous events, and the annual Fair. Beyond this, the Event Center shows its unwavering commitment to community resilience and welfare as a designated emergency management site. It is proud to announce a continued vital partnership with the San Mateo County Human Services Agency to implement the Inclement Weather Program.
The program, designed to provide essential refuge and aid during harsh weather conditions, will serve as a lifeline for vulnerable unsheltered individuals within our community. It aligns with our mission to strengthen the well-being and safety of San Mateo County residents in times of need.
The San Mateo County Event Center is not just a venue that serves the business community and public but is also an emergency management facility prepared to support the community when in crisis. In partnership with the County of San Mateo and the State of California, the Event Center has invested over $16 million in critical infrastructure improvements, including the addition of a community kitchen and resiliency dining hall, newly constructed restrooms with showers, an on-site laundry facility, campus-wide backup generators, and other essential upgrades. These enhancements make the Event Center uniquely equipped to serve as a temporary shelter, providing meals, basic necessities, and essential services to those affected by extreme weather events and facing housing insecurity.
“Our collaboration with the San Mateo County Human Services Agency demonstrates our deep-rooted dedication to supporting our community when it matters most,” said Dana Stoehr, CEO of the San Mateo County Event Center. “As an emergency management site, we are fully committed to providing a safe, supportive environment during inclement weather, and we are honored to open our doors in this capacity.”
“Our residents make so many good memories at the Event Center. The fact that it will continue to be a trusted refuge and resource in challenging times like during the pandemic, is a testament to its importance in San Mateo County. This county partnership is what it means to come together as a resilient and compassionate community,” said Supervisor Corzo at the County of San Mateo.
The San Mateo County Human Services Agency, as a funder, is supporting the Inclement Weather Program. The Event Center staff will manage daily operations of the program, ensuring individuals accessing the shelter receive the necessary care and access to community resources. Trained staff and volunteers will be on-site to offer assistance, guidance, and connections to additional support services.
“People living without a roof over their head are extremely vulnerable during cold weather. Adding warm beds at the Event Center can literally save lives this winter,” said Claire Cunningham, Director of the County’s Human Services Agency. “The Event Center will now be an option for people with few options.”
The Inclement Weather Program will be activated in response to adverse weather forecasts and will operate during a specified period when temperatures are forecast to reach a certain low threshold, or when slightly higher temperatures are accompanied by, rain, or other severe conditions.
If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact a Core Services Agency. For a list of the Core Services Agencies in San Mateo County, visit: https://www.smcgov.org/hsa/core-service-agencies-emergency-safety-net-assistance
About San Mateo County Event Center
The San Mateo County Event Center is a premier, multi-functional venue serving the greater Bay Area, it is also a designated emergency management site committed to the safety and well-being of the San Mateo community. With its extensive convention and conference facilities, it hosts a diverse array of events, from conventions and community gatherings, to large festivals and the annual Fair, contributing to the region’s economic vitality and well-being. As part of the San Mateo County Fairgrounds, the Event Center is deeply committed to supporting programs that uplift the community and strengthen economic and social well-being throughout the region.
San Mateo County Event Center is a proud member of the California Emergency Resiliency and Response Venues and Fairgrounds.
The California Emergency Response and Resiliency Venues and Fairgrounds (CERRVF) comprises leading fairgrounds and venues in our state. Across California, our venues and fairgrounds play a critical role in leading emergency and disaster response operations when our communities need it the most.
