Tempe Nonprofits Elevate Response to Homelessness through Colocation
Tempe Community Action Agency, Aris Foundation, and AZ HUGS will share space and resources for increased community impact
[April 26, 2024. Tempe, Arizona] – In an exciting initiative, three local nonprofits have announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing services for unsheltered populations in Tempe, Arizona. The collaboration will see these nonprofits sharing space, resources, and expertise to improve responsiveness and create more effective support systems for those experiencing homelessness.
The participating organizations-- Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA), Aris Foundation, and AZ HUGS—are known, trusted, and respected by a broad community of unsheltered individuals, and bring a wealth of experience and a diverse range of services to the partnership. By coming together, they aim to create a more cohesive and coordinated approach to addressing homelessness, enabling them to serve more people and achieve greater impact.
Key features of the partnership include:
- Shared Space: The partnership will operate from TCAA’s central location on Apache Boulevard, providing a one-stop resource center where individuals experiencing homelessness can access a range of services such as case management, warrant quashing, and navigation services to aide in detox, rehabilitation, and transportation resources. Resources provided at the site can include food bags and pet food, water, and heat relief. Visitors can also access I-HELP emergency shelter intakes and rapid rehousing services onsite.
- Resource Sharing: The partners will pool their resources to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and expand the scope of services available to those in need. This includes shared space and volunteers.
- Volunteer Opportunities: The efforts of local neighbors and businesses interested in serving unsheltered individuals (such as preparing food) will be coordinated through the partners.
- Improved Responsiveness: By sharing information and working together, the partners can respond more quickly to emerging needs and adapt to changes in the community.
"We are thrilled to unite with our partners to share space and resources," said Deborah Arteaga, CEO of TCAA. "This partnership represents a significant step forward in our efforts to combat homelessness in Tempe. By sharing our resources and expertise with one another and the public, we create a more effective support system for those who need it most." Katherine Kouvelas-Edick, Aris Foundation’s Executive Director echoed this sentiment, stating, "This partnership allows us to provide a wider range of services and reach more people in need. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing the complex issues surrounding homelessness."
The partners invite the community members and businesses to join them in their efforts to address homelessness in Tempe. To learn more about the partnership, upcoming events, or volunteer opportunities, please contact: tempeaction.org/volunteer and/or arisfoundation.org/volunteer.
Media Contact: deboraha@tempeaction.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TempeCommunityActionAgency
Instagram: instagram.com/tempeaction
LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/company/tempe-community-action-agency
About Tempe Community Action Agency
Since 1966, Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA) has dedicated its resources to strengthening families and neighborhoods through initiatives that address the causes and effects of poverty. Eliminate poverty and advance equitable communities. Through our programs and initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those facing adversity in our community. On an annual basis, TCAA programs benefit more than 35,000 seniors, adults, and children who live in and around the City of Tempe.
About Aris Foundation
At Aris Foundation, we believe there is no "one way" to escape homelessness. It takes time to build connections and develop relationships. We not only provide our clients with basic needs such as clothing and hygiene items, but also resources and emotional support. Since our founding in 2016, we have provided support to thousands of homeless individuals in Tempe and the surrounding areas. We have housed nearly 300 people and watched as they went on their journey away from homelessness. Learn more at arisfoundation.org.
About AZ HUGS
AZ HUGS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to showing love and togetherness to those experiencing homelessness throughout the valley. AZ HUGS operates the Sunday Family Picnic Resource Exchange, HUGS House, and conducts street outreach and navigation services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Learn more at azhugs.org.
