About Our New Health Center
Our Passion, Our Mission
Since 1980, Ritter Center has helped thousands of individuals experiencing housing insecurity
and homelessness find and maintain housing, access medical and behavioral healthcare, participate in safety net and social programs, attain nutritious food, and connect with our community partners for access to complementary programs that treat the whole person.
Today, we are engaged in a robust capital campaign to purchase and renovate a new state-of-the-art health center at 800 A Street in San Rafael. The new facility will reflect our commitment to and respect for our clients, and enable us to evolve with the needs of Marin County’s vulnerable children, families, seniors, and individuals experiencing homelessness and economic insecurity.
Why Move, Why Now
Ritter Center works! Together, we are ending homelessness, providing essential healthcare services, and serving as Marin County's only designated Federally Qualified Health Care for the Homeless site. We are unqiquely equipped to serve our community's most vulernable. We are the court of last resort for many whose needs cannot be adequately addressed elsewhere.
Homelessness is decreasing due to our efforts. However, accessing and remaining in stable housing requires supportive services like Ritter Center provides. In Marin County, many are one paycheck away from homelessness where housing is limited and costs are rising. Did you know that you need to earn $112,800 annually - 3.4 times the state minimum wage - to afford the average monthly rent of $2,820* for a one bedroom apartment in the County. Meanwhile, the maximum Social Security Income benefit is $1,182.94 for an individual adult.
Marin County 2024 Point in Time Count
862
individuals experiencing homelessness had unmet needs
24%
decrease in chronic homelessness
12%
decrease in family homelessness
75%
of extremely low-income families pay more than half of their income on rent
Today’s Challenges
Our home since 1980, 16 Ritter Street now poses challenges that a bigger space will solve. They include limited office and medical space, no parking, outdated facilities, insufficient interior waiting rooms, and an environment that does not reflect our dedication to providing high-quality services.
Improving Services
Standing at nearly 14,000 sq. ft., the new center will have the following:
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2x the medical exam rooms
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Modern healthcare equipment
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Confidential behavioral health rooms
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Lab for on-site testing
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Treatment room for minor procedures
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Meditation and lactation room
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Off-street parking and EV charging capacity
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Large, interior waiting rooms
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Medical team room
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2x the current food pantry
As a result, Ritter Center will increase healthcare equity and quality of care by:
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Expanding women's health services
- Adding ancillary pediatric services
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Adding supportive employment services
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Queuing pantry and clinic visitors inside
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Providing greater variety of food options
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Providing food to more senior clients
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Uniting our staff under one roof
Our Impact
See how our work helps people in need and benefits the community.
Book a Tour and Learn More
Our Capital Campaign Cabinet is hosting home gatherings and VIP hard hat tours to update the community on our progress and share ways to get involved.
