The Tempe Community Action Agency and the Arizona Lottery have formed a partnership to support the TCAA’s homeless assistance efforts.

And as part of that arrangement the lottery’s Gives Back Program as announced a $50,000 contribution to benefit the agency’s I-HELP project, which provides safe sleeping spaces, meals and access to support services for unsheltered adults in the community.

The I-HELP program operates in partnership with a network of more than 12 faith-based organizations, providing overnight sleeping space for 40 beds for participants each night of the year. Through TCAA's efforts, participants receive access to laundry and shower amenities, as well as employment assistance, housing navigation and an array of health care services, according to a release. 

"We are proud to partner with the Tempe Community Action Agency," Chris Rogers, an Arizona Lottery deputy director, said.

"The I-HELP program is so important because it provides essential services to those in need and helps to improve their quality of life in ways that so many of us take for granted.

"The Arizona Lottery exists to do good in our community, and this program is doing that every day."

With the support of the Arizona Lottery's Gives Back sponsorship, TCAA will expand its services by adding on-site group activities, such as art therapy, pet therapy and life-skills development, addressing the mental health needs of I-HELP participants, the release stated.

“As our community continues to experience high rates of housing insecurity and homelessness, the Arizona Lottery’s Gives Back sponsorship allows the I-HELP shelter to continue to serve the needs of affected adults, including offering healthy pathways out of homelessness,” said Deborah Arteaga, Tempe Community Action Agency CEO. 

To learn more about Arizona Lottery and its Gives Back program, visit www.arizonalottery.com.