Homelessness

The widely accepted definition of homeless is lacking stable, safe, adequate housing. But how people begin experiencing homelessness is much more complex.

It can come from a loss of income, sudden illness or accident, substance use, mental health, eviction, or an issue with a relationship, such as domestic violence. And the people experiencing it are even more varied.

Men, women, children, older adults, and families are among the more than 5,000 households affected and increasingly, it may be people you know.

Unfortunately, homelessness is on the rise. Increases in the data show just how much. We also know the “official” definitions of homelessness understate the full extent of the issue. Not only do you have people who are not counted, like many youths, but thousands of other people are living in sub-standard housing, crowded conditions, couch surfing, or doubled up with family or friends.

The reasons, the wide range of people affected, and the increasing numbers of people experiencing homelessness make addressing the issue difficult. But not impossible!

Everyone can play a role in reducing preventing homelessness.

Homelessness Information

Need Help?

Resources available for those experiencing homelessness

Resources & Trainings

Funding opportunities, resources, manuals, and best practices to address homelessness

Data

Data including Homelessness Trends Report and Point-in-Time Count

Reports & Strategies

Regional reports, strategies, outreach, and research

Pathways Home

Regional Action Plan for Local and Tribal Governments

Continuum of Care

Regional Board and Committees working to address homelessness

Make A Difference - Real Change, Not Spare Change.

We can work together to ensure that homelessness is brief, rare, only occurs once, and that everyone in our community has a safe place to call home. Innovative solutions require increased collaboration at every level in the region. Local and tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, faith-based communities and many more are working together to address homelessness throughout the region, but one person can make a difference.

But there is so much more to do, and you can help. To ensure that those experiencing homelessness receive the most effective help, we encourage you to reduce homelessness through “Real Change, Not Spare Change.” Here are a few healthy ways to help:

Support the regional strategies and action plan
Donate through the Healthy Giving Council
Volunteer through Hands on Phoenix
Support a range of housing options in their community, including affordable housing and temporary housing solutions through the Arizona Housing Coalition