How Arizonans can help the most vulnerable this summer

Howard Epstein

Submitted photo/Arizona Housing Fund

Addressing homelessness and housing insecurity requires collaboration among nonprofits, businesses, government agencies and community members. This summer, Arizonans have numerous opportunities to get involved through education, volunteerism, charitable giving, and conscious consumer choices. Together, these efforts can help create stronger communities and brighter futures for our neighbors in need.”

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OPINION — Homelessness and housing insecurity continue to impact communities across Arizona, affecting individuals, families, seniors, veterans and young people from all walks of life.

With soaring summer temperatures, this time of year is an extremely challenging time for those without permanent housing. And while the challenges can feel overwhelming, there are meaningful ways you can make a difference. Whether through volunteering, attending educational events or making charitable contributions, every action helps strengthen the safety net for vulnerable Arizonans.

Here are five impactful ways to get involved this summer:

Learn more at the Arizona Housing Forum

Among the best ways to create lasting change is to understand the issues and solutions surrounding housing affordability and homelessness. The Arizona Department of Housing’s annual “Show Me the Housing” forum is Aug. 26 to 28. It brings together housing professionals, nonprofit leaders, developers, policymakers and advocates from across the state.

The conference explores innovative strategies for increasing affordable housing, addressing homelessness and strengthening Arizona communities. Whether you work in housing-related fields or simply want to become a more informed advocate, attending the forum offers valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Arizona today.

Participate in the Homeless ID Project Sleep Out

For many Arizonans who experience homelessness, obtaining identification documents can be a major barrier to accessing housing, employment, healthcare and other essential services. The Homeless ID Project helps individuals secure the identification they need to rebuild their lives.

This fall, community members can support the organization's mission by participating in the annual Sleep Out event. Participants spend a night outdoors while raising awareness and funds to support the Homeless ID Project’s work. The event provides a powerful opportunity to better understand the realities faced by individuals experiencing homelessness while helping fund services that create pathways to stability.

Dine with a purpose at Helpings Café

Supporting local businesses can also support local causes. On the campus of UMOM New Day Centers, Helpings Café serves breakfast, lunch, catering and baked goods while providing workforce development opportunities for individuals seeking to overcome homelessness and poverty.

Every meal purchased supports job training and employment opportunities that empower participants to gain skills, build confidence and achieve greater financial independence. Whether you stop in for lunch, order catering for a business meeting or purchase treats for a special event, your dollars help support a mission-driven enterprise that is changing lives.

Volunteer at St. Vincent de Paul

Direct service remains among the most meaningful ways to help people who are experiencing hardship. St. Vincent de Paul Phoenix offers a variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the Valley, including serving meals in its dining rooms, assisting with food distribution programs and supporting operations at the Dream Center.

Volunteers play a critical role in helping the organization provide food, shelter, supportive services and compassionate care to thousands of individuals and families each year. Whether you can commit to a regular schedule or volunteer occasionally, your time can make a tangible difference in someone's life.

Help build permanent supportive housing

Permanent supportive housing is widely recognized as among the most effective solutions for addressing chronic homelessness. By combining affordable housing with supportive services, individuals and families can achieve long-term stability and improve their quality of life.

Arizonans can support these efforts by donating to organizations like the Arizona Housing Fund, an initiative dedicated to financing affordable housing and supportive housing developments around the state that create safe, stable housing opportunities for those who need them most. Every contribution, regardless of size, helps expand access to housing and moves Arizona closer to a future where everyone has a place to call home.

Addressing homelessness and housing insecurity requires collaboration among nonprofits, businesses, government agencies and community members. This summer, Arizonans have numerous opportunities to get involved through education, volunteerism, charitable giving, and conscious consumer choices. Together, these efforts can help create stronger communities and brighter futures for our neighbors in need.

Howard Epstein is a real estate executive and founder of the Arizona Housing Fund, a private philanthropic initiative a goal of raising $100 million to fund permanent supportive housing units and end homelessness in Arizona. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.