Homelessness remains one of the most urgent and complex issues facing Silicon Valley. For over 40 years, Cisco has been rooted in Santa Clara County, and with that long-standing presence comes a deep commitment to its home community. Cisco recognizes that access to safe, stable housing is not just a basic need, but a cornerstone of individual and community well-being. That’s why the company is stepping up with urgency and purpose, embracing the opportunity to help build a future where everyone has a place to call home.
Ending homelessness takes more than one organization or sector. It takes all of us, working in lockstep and leading with purpose, to create systems that ensure no one is left behind.
Erin Connor, Director of Cisco Crisis Response
What began as a shared vision to end homelessness in Santa Clara County has grown into a powerful, long-term partnership. Over the past eight years, Cisco has invested $75 million to accelerate the development of deeply affordable and supportive housing, fund homelessness prevention, and expand technology access across our Supportive Housing System. This catalytic funding has leveraged additional private investment as well as public funds from the state and local levels to move housing solutions forward more quickly, and expand access to programs that help our neighbors stay safely and stably housed.
As a global technology leader, Cisco brings more than funding to this work — it brings innovation. Together, we’ve launched tools like MyConnectSV, a digital portal to help people access housing assistance; TECHquity, which expands digital access for those experiencing homelessness; and WiFi connectivity at interim and supportive housing sites to help residents stay connected. These solutions, shaped by the voices of service providers and people with lived experience, are strengthened by Cisco’s expertise in technology and strategy. At the heart of this work is a shared commitment to using data-backed innovation to support those most impacted by homelessness and housing insecurity.
We know that solving homelessness requires more than quick fixes – it takes real collaboration, deep listening to our community members with lived expertise, and a willingness to invest in long-term solutions. The need is dire and leaders like Cisco are showing the true commitment we need to begin turning the tide.
Jennifer Loving, CEO of Destination Home
Cisco and Destination: Home continue to build on this success, working to scale effective solutions to meet the growing need. Our partnership reflects what is possible when leadership is deeply rooted in place, purpose, and a long-term vision for community well-being.
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