SBCS Trolley Trestle

The Project

San Diego County-based nonprofit organization SBCS transforms communities to support the well-being and prosperity of children, youth and families. SBCS supports families through affordable housing and social services like financial literacy and family wellness. Their Trolley Trestle residence, offering transitional housing for former foster and homeless youth while they finish school or complete job training, was BQuest's first bridge loan project drawing down SOMAH (Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing) funds from the State of California. Upfront funding was provided during the design, permitting, and construction phases at no cost to SBCS until SOMAH funds were awarded in the form of a rebate.

Bridge funding eliminates the barrier of upfront costs for nonprofit multifamily housing operators looking to go solar. Residents of Trolley Trestle are expected to have their utility bills reduced by $400 per year. SBCS will also save money by having offices and community meeting spaces powered by solar.