Tempe nonprofits partner to address rising homeless population

Three local nonprofits have announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing services for unsheltered populations in Tempe. 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, 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 range of services to the partnership, according to a press release.

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, as detailed in the release, 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 aid 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," Deborah Arteaga, CEO of TCAA, sstated in the release. "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 community members and businesses to join them in their efforts to address homelessness in Tempe, the release stated.

To learn more about the partnership, upcoming events or volunteer opportunities, visit tempeaction.org/volunteer or arisfoundation.org/volunteer.