Thousands of people are homeless in San Francisco, and even more throughout the Bay Area. Despite years of concern and millions of dollars of investment, the problem persists. Who are the people who live on the streets and on the edge of homelessness? Why have we failed to create lasting change? And are there solutions that offer hope for the future?
As part of a collaboration with dozens of Bay Area news organizations, KQED is exploring these questions, and more, with the SF Homeless Project. Below is the "toolkit" KQED has provided for volunteer opportunities.
KQED's Volunteer "Toolkit"
The media collaborative SF Homeless Project is shining another light on the issue of homelessness and housing insecurity during the week of December 7th.
One of the things audience members asked during the coordinated June coverage was "how can I help?" The Project is putting together a toolkit, with information about how to volunteer or donate (they are not soliciting money, however) at service organizations around the Bay Area. Here are two examples of volunteer opportunities:
- Compass Family Services is an organization helping families facing homelessness receive housing services and support as they transition from crisis to economic stability.
Contact: 49 Powell St., 3rd Floor, San Francisco
Items Needed: New or used iPads or tablets, diapers, travel sized toiletries, new socks and underwear, school and arts & crafts supplies, canned and other non-perishable food items, feminine hygiene products, new and gently used clothing, shoes, strollers, vehicles
Donation Inquiries: Email jheck@compass-sf.org
- Food Runners is an organization on a mission to alleviate hunger in San Francisco and prevent waste. They help get donated food from those who have too much to those who have too little.
Contact: (415) 929-1866
Items Needed: Excess food from businesses that would otherwise be wasted
Donation Inquiries: Package your excess food and fill out their online donation form via their website, or leave a message on (415) 929-1866
Do Your Grantees Need Volunteers or Donations?
KQED is seeking your help in reaching out to service providers in the 9 county Bay Area region. If they have need for volunteers or donations, they can let The Project know by filling out this form.
Questions?
Contact Holly Kernan, Executive Editor, News, KQED, at HKernan@KQED.org.