City of Santa Barbara Seeking Operator for Newly Named “Casa Cacique” Shelter

The City is seeking a qualified long-term operator for its shelter at 816 Cacique Street, newly named Casa Cacique, to provide safe, compassionate, and service-focused support for people experiencing homelessness. 

The name “Cacique,” originates from the Taíno language, referring to their chieftains as “cacike” or “kassequa,” and is rooted in a term meaning “to keep house," reflecting the facility’s mission to guide participants toward a sense of home while honoring the street’s history.  The operator selection is expected to be presented to the City Council for approval by June 2026.

Mercy House Living Centers is the current interim service provider; the shelter was previously operated by People Assisting the Homeless (PATH).

For more information about City services and facilities, visit Homelessness Initiatives (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/Homelessness).