At the heart of everything we do is a deep commitment to bridging people and resources to protect, care for, and stand with the most vulnerable in our homeless communities — especially those living with serious mental illness and substance use disorders.
Below is a list of key contacts and resources we prioritize in every community where we operate, ensuring our outreach is both effective and deeply connected to local needs.
1. Local Mental Health Crisis Response Teams
These are essential partners for safe handoffs, referrals, and coordinated responses.
- Mobile Crisis Units (MCUs)
- Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs)
- County Behavioral Health Departments
- 24/7 Mental Health Hotlines (e.g., 988)
Why? Coordinate warm transfers, build transport protocols, and ensure people in crisis receive professional help quickly.
2. Substance Use & Harm Reduction Providers
- Detox and Sobering Centers
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Clinics
- Needle Exchange Programs
- Narcan Distribution Hubs
- Syringe Services Programs (SSPs)
Why? Facilitate referrals and access to harm reduction supplies and addiction treatment.
3. Homeless Outreach & Housing Navigation Services
- Continuum of Care (CoC) Leads
- Shelter and Transitional Housing Coordinators
- Street Outreach Teams
- Rapid Rehousing & PSH Providers
Why? Partner on housing placement and shelter access when individuals are ready.
4. Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
- Free or Sliding-Scale Clinics
- Community Health Centers
- Mobile Medical Units
Why? Direct individuals with medical needs to appropriate care settings.
5. Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking Services
- 24/7 Crisis Lines
- Emergency Shelter Providers
- Trafficking Recovery Programs
- Legal Aid Services
Why? Support individuals escaping violence and connect them to safety and legal support.
6. Faith-Based & Community Centers
- Churches, Mosques, and Temples
- Community Centers with Storage Capacity
- Neighborhood Associations and Mutual Aid Groups
Why? Serve as donation collection hubs and neighborhood outreach partners.
7. Local Government & First Responders (Non-Emergency)
- City or County Homeless Services Departments
- Police Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT)
- EMS Outreach Coordinators
- Local Elected Officials (Mayor, Council)
Why? Promote trauma-informed response alternatives and reduce unnecessary 911 usage.
8. Local Transportation Providers
- Paratransit or Low-Income Ride Services
- Volunteer Driver Programs
- Health System or Medicaid Transport Services
Why? Supplement outreach mobility and expand access to appointments.
9. Donation Partners & Supply Vendors
- Outdoor Gear Companies
- Hygiene Kit and Clothing Suppliers
- Restaurants and Food Pantries
- Local Businesses with Corporate Giving Programs
Why? Secure donated goods and materials without draining program budgets.
10. Colleges & Social Work Programs
- MSW/BSW Student Placement Offices
- Public Health and Psychology Departments
- Service-Learning and Volunteer Coordinators
Why? Recruit trained volunteers, interns, and future outreach workers.