Homeless services provider Haven for Hope in San Antonio reported that it has been seeing a rise in families, seniors, and young adults experiencing homelessness.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the nonprofit operates a “one-stop-shop” campus that provides a variety of homeless services on the same campus where it maintains emergency housing for its clients. The model has previously been credited with a 77% decrease in homelessness in San Antonio.
“To meet this increase in demand, Haven has been operating at 118% of its design capacity for more than 20 months. Yet, we remain committed to helping every family and vulnerable individual who comes to us in need of safe shelter,” the organization recently wrote on its Facebook page.
More than 1,700 individuals, including children, are currently staying at Haven for Hope. With the holiday season in full swing, Haven is asking community members to lend a hand by donating to the organization.
“We are asking you to join us by donating to this year’s Gift of Hope holiday appeal. Imagine the impact your gift can have on a family or individual who calls Haven their home for the holidays. As we wind down the last days of 2023 and look ahead to 2024, will you consider giving a year-end gift to Haven? Donate today,” Haven posted.
Meanwhile in Dallas, polling has found that 76% of residents are still frustrated with homelessness, vagrancy, and panhandling. While the City is engaged in several homelessness response initiatives, none have employed the “one-stop-shop” model. However, some local stakeholders are working to bring such a model to Dallas. The model has polled favorably among Dallas residents, but whether city officials will try it out remains to be seen.
