Tempe, ARIZ - The holiday spirit will come alive in Tempe tomorrow as volunteers gather at Valley of the Sun United Way’s Project Connect event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sun Valley Community Church in Tempe, 6101 S. River Rd. Hundreds of volunteers are expected on hand, including one who experienced homelessness herself, to lend help those most in need.
At Project Connect, individuals and families who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness are connected to more than 30 health and human service providers to accomplish a series of personal goals that empower them on their road to a new life and increase self-sufficiency for themselves and their families. Volunteers act as the guides to connect individuals seeking help with key resources, from IDs to clothes and haircuts, to wellness checks and employment services.
“This effort speaks to the power of volunteers coming together with neighbors to give the best possible gift you could – aid to build a new life, one that provides a new level of security and independence,” said Amy Schwabenlender, Vice President of Community Impact for Valley of the Sun United Way.
Homelessness impacts our entire community, with thousands of individuals experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County on any given day, and many at risk after experiencing a job loss, medical cost or foreclosure. Many people who experience or are at risk of homelessness are veterans or families with children. Project Connect is a big part of a regional solution to end homelessness. It is a national model which changes individual lives and the community as a whole.
About Valley of the Sun United Way
Valley of the Sun United Way works to ensure children and youth succeed, end hunger and homelessness and increase the financial stability of individuals and families in Maricopa County. Through programs such as Project Connect and the development of Permanent Supportive Housing partnerships, United Way is committed to end chronic homelessness in our community. For more information, visit www.vsuw.org.
###