As homelessness rises to new levels across Maricopa County, government agencies, activists and volunteers have worked to find ways to handle the issues at hand.
Estimates of the number of people facing homelessness across the Valley reach 10,000. They live in cars, tents and makeshift shelters throughout the city, often without reliable access to meals or showers. More than two homeless people die each day on average in the county, according to data from the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Shelters, overwhelmed by need, often have long waiting lists for their services and local municipalities are strapped for cash as COVID-19 funds dry up.
But individual residents can collaborate to create change. Experts emphasize the importance of contributing in a way that is sustainable and helps existing groups that help those living on the streets.
How can I help people experiencing homelessness if I can’t donate?
One group, the Healthy Giving Council, combines the forces of social service providers, local residents, faith leaders and people with lived experience of homelessness. The group compiled a list of local nonprofit organizations that residents can donate their time or money to to support people in need. The list can be found at www.givesmartaz.org/volunteer.
Volunteer opportunities exist throughout the Valley, from Sun City to Chandler. Those interested can help serve food, sort donations and create relief kits distributed to those forced to sleep outdoors.
What are some local groups I can support?
AZ HUGS: AZ HUGS is a nonprofit organization that provides meals and community to people facing housing insecurity. The group accepts volunteers and donations. More information is available on their website azhugs.org.
André House: Andre House offers meals and hospitality services, such as laundry and shower access, to people in downtown Phoenix. More information about items needed and how to donate can be found on the organization’s website at www.andrehouse.org/ways-to-give/.
Streets covered in clouds: Cloud Covered Streets provides showers, clothing and laundry services to homeless people throughout the Valley. Donations are accepted at www.cloudcoveredstreets.org/phx-donations.
Keys to change: Key Campus in downtown Phoenix serves hundreds of people each day. The campus offers emergency shelter, job resources, meals and more. Donations are encouraged throughout the year through their website at https://keystochangeaz.org/ways-to-give/monetary-donations/
PHX UNREST: RIOT PHX provides harm reduction resources to those who use drugs to limit health and safety issues as much as possible. Instagram: @riotphx
Filmed in the dark of Arizona: Shot in the Dark provides access to needles for people who use intravenous drugs to prevent illness and injury. Instagram: @sitdaz
UMOM: UMOM provides shelter and resources for families and individuals throughout the Valley. You can find more information about how to donate at www.umom.org/donate-items.
This article originally appeared in the Arizona Republic: How to Help Those Facing Homelessness in Arizona