East Palo Alto’s RV safe parking program provides essential services for residents in transition

When Lupita Lara was homeless a decade ago, she had to figure things out on her own. Now as a case manager for WeHOPE, an East Palo Alto nonprofit that serves people who are unhoused or living in their vehicles, she is giving the help that she never got. 

“I was homeless in 2011 and I wish that the help that there is now, I had with my case manager. I would just do it myself,” Lara said. “I wanted to help other people who have been homeless to let them know: It’s OK. We’ve all been there. I understand what they’re going through and can help them.”