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SF Homeless Project

SF Homeless Project

A directory of nonprofit groups that need donations of specific items or volunteer help. To add your nonprofit to the list, email sfhomelessproject@gmail.com.

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A Home Away From Homelessness A Home Away From Homelessness is an after-school program that serves homeless and formerly homeless youths in San Francisco. http://homeaway.org Provide tutoring service for middle and high school students, help chaperone Beach House field trips, mentor students preparing to apply for college and internship opportunities Fort Mason, Building 33, San Francisco admin@homeaway.org 415-561-5533 SF
Abode Services Abode Services is working to end homelessness in Santa Clara, Alameda, Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties by securing permanent homes for individuals and families. http://abodeservices.org Prepare and serve meals, help sort and store donated items, perform light cleaning and maintenance, contact the community outreach director for additional volunteer opportunities or visit www.abodeservices.org/support_us/volunteers. 588 Brown Road, Fremont jmorgan@abodeservices.org 510-252-0910, ext. 804 EB
Alameda County Community Food Bank Alameda County Community Food Bank serves 1 in 5 county residents. This year they will provide 29 million meals worth of food through 250+ non-profit distribution partners located across the county. http://accfb.org Sorting and packaging food in our warehouse to be distributed to the community. Occasionally help is needed in the field to assist pantries and other partners distributing food. 7900 Edgewater Dr., Oakland info@accfb.org 510-635-FOOD (3663) EB
Alameda Point Collaborative Alameda Point Collaborative is the largest provider of permanent supportive housing in Alameda County. It provides housing and services that create a community where formerly homeless families can flourish. http://apcollaborative.org Serve as urban farmers, horticulturists and tutors for children, host workshops and donate your skills. APC can host volunteer groups of up to 450 people. 677 W. Ranger Ave., Alameda apcvolunteermanagement@gmail.com 510-898-7800 EB
Ambassadors of Hope and Opportunity Ambassadors of Hope and Opportunity (AHO) is a 15-year-old community-driven and youth-led program that provides homeless teens and young adults ages 18 to 25 with personalized, comprehensive resources and leadership opportunities for up to five years. AHO partners with businesses, faith communities, professionals, organizations and individuals to provide housing, jobs, dental services, cell phone, laptops, counseling, scholarships for college, eyeglasses and more. http://ahoproject.org Book speaking engagements with high school leadership students, provide a room in your home for a youth who needs transitional housing, offer professional services pro bono or volunteer at events and fundraisers. P.O. Box 2278, Mill Valley, CA 94942 zarab@comcast.net NB
Back on My Feet Back on My Feet is a national organization that combats homelessness through the power of running, community support and employment and housing resources. https://backonmyfeet.org/san-francisco/ Run between 1 and 4 miles with members or help out at community events. Follow this link for volunteer information, https://backonmyfeet.org/get-involved/volunteer. 169 11th St., San Francisco info@backonmyfeet.org (attention to San Francisco) 215-772-1080 SF
Bay Area Rescue Mission Bay Area Rescue Mission offers a clean, safe place to sleep as well as a yearlong program to help adults get back into a functional, productive life. http://bayarearescue.org One-time and scheduled recurring and group volunteering; collection drives and internships are available. More information on our website or email volunteers@BayAreaRescue.org. 200 Macdonald Ave., Richmond info@BayAreaRescue.org 510-215-4555 EB
Berkeley Food & Housing Project Berkeley Food & Housing Project provides a comprehensive range of housing, food and support services to help those in need move from homelessness into a safe and affordable home of their own. http://bfhp.org Afternoon and evening meal service, food prep and facilities maintenance. 1901 Fairview St., Berkeley volunteers@bfhp.org 510-318-6606 EB
Beyond Emancipation Beyond Emancipation supports Alameda County’s current and former foster and probation youths to achieve success in housing, education, employment, permanency and wellness. http://beyondemancipation.org Tutor community college students, lead a part of the culinary training program or participate in career panels. 675 Hegenberger Road, Ste. 100, Oakland volunteer@beyondemancipation.org 510-667-7694 EB
Building Futures Building Futures helps people affected by homelessness and domestic violence by operating a safe house, emergency shelters and a permanent housing site and offering rental assistance. http://bfwc.org Work with children served by emergency shelters and domestic violence safe house; donate meals; provide building maintenance; crisis line operations; administrative duties. 1395 Bancroft Ave., San Leandro N/A 510-357-0205, ext. 206 EB
Building Opportunities for Self Sufficiency Building Opportunities for Self Sufficiency provides housing, employment, mental health and violence prevention services. http://self-sufficiency.org Fundraising/marketing, board membership and consulting, teaching classes to homeless shelter residents, coaching job seekers, and tutoring in the after-school Children's Learning Center. 1918 University Ave., No. 2A, Berkeley info@self-sufficiency.org 510-649-1930, ext. 1008 EB
Catholic Charities of San Francisco Catholic Charities serves diverse communities of formerly homeless individuals and families who are now sheltered and safe. Programs include emergency family shelters; eviction prevention services; specialized counseling for individuals with triple diagnoses of mental illness, addiction and chronic illness such as HIV/AIDS; intensive case management ;and family Access Points in the Bayview and Mission districts. Catholic Charities serves everyone. http://catholiccharitiessf.org Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals, families, corporate groups, schools and more. Help in the food pantry, restore a garden at one of our family shelters, serve meals to seniors and adults with disabilities, and more. Email Carol Laughlin, volunteer manager, at claughlin@CatholicCharitiesSF.org to learn what volunteer opportunities are available or to create an opportunity unique to your team. 990 Eddy St., San Francisco claughlin@CatholicCharitiesSF.org 415-972-1200 SF
Catholic Charities of the East Bay Catholic Charities of the East Bay works with youths, children and families to promote resilience, strengthen families and pursue safety and justice. We help people, regardless of their faith, who struggle with poverty and other complex issues. http://www.cceb.org A diverse range of volunteer opportunities; visit www.cceb.org/get-involved/volunteer to learn more. 433 Jefferson St, Oakland kodonnell@cceb.org 510-768-3100 EB
Care Through Touch Institute The Care Through Touch Institute accompanies, comforts and empower homeless and marginally housed people through free seated massage therapy and a compassionate supportive presence. Healing touch combined with a loving presence inspires hope, restores a sense of dignity and empowers both the volunteer and recipient to aspire to a healthier, safer, more just and caring way of being with oneself, in community, and in the world. http://carethroughtouch.org CTI seeks volunteers for administrative tasks, graphic design, grant writing, taking photos and producing short videos, laundry and those who are massage therapists or who are interested in joining the fundraising committee and/or board of directors. Volunteers are also needed to support volunteers through offering sound healings, massage, meditations, yoga, talks, tai chi workshops, and other trainings and talks to help volunteers stay grounded and supported. 240 Golden Gate Ave., No. 206, San Francisco office@carethroughtouch.org 415-344-0302 SF
Charlotte Maxwell Clinic The Charlotte Maxwell Clinic is a free public health clinic in Oakland that provides integrated medical services to Bay Area low-income women with cancer through a volunteer network of more than 200 health care practitioners. http://charlottemaxwell.org Licensed acupuncturists, certified massage therapists, guided imagery specialists, Western herbalists, homeopaths, drivers and Spanish- and Chinese-language interpreters are needed. Volunteers can also offer support in the clinic assisting with fundraising, development or outreach. 411 30th St., Ste. 508, Oakland mail@charlottemaxwell.org 510-601-7660 EB
Children of Shelters Children of Shelters offers unique educational opportunities, cultural experiences and enrichment activities. http://childrenofshelters.org Volunteers needed at shelters and holiday fundraising events. 2269 Chestnut St., Box 439, San Francisco volunteer@childrenofshelters.org 415-805-8579 SF
Cityteam Cityteam provides food, shelter, clothing, training and spiritual transformation to address poverty and homelessness in San Jose, San Francisco and Oakland by caring for immediate needs and enabling lasting solutions. http://cityteam.org Donation pickup, help in the kitchen, donation sorting, warehouse help, assisting at special events, serving meals and more. 164 Sixth St., San Francisco. info@cityteam.org 415-861-8688 SB
Coalition on Homelessness Coalition on Homelessness advocates for permanent solutions to homelessness, while protecting the human rights of those on the streets. http://cohsf.org Outreach to homeless people, research, policy development, writing for the organization’s newspaper, artwork and poetry, photography. 468 Turk St., San Francisco development@cohsf.org 415-346-3740 ext. 303 SF
COTS COTS assists people transitioning from homelessness to a permanent home. http://cots-homeless.org Prep and serve meals, interact with children, yard work and more. 900 Hopper St., Petaluma volunteers@cots.org 707-765-6530, ext. 136 NB
Community Action North Bay Community Action North Bay provides housing, food, clothing, case management, money management and other training. http://canbinc.org Help with inventory; sorting and bagging food on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings; social support to housing clients; payee services; and help with clerical and bookkeeping duties. 416 Union Ave., Fairfield info@canbinc.org 707-427-1148, ext. 131 NB
Community Education Partnerships Community Education Partnerships provides educational support to children who are experiencing, or have been affected by, homelessness and housing instability. http://cep.ngo Weekly one-on-one tutoring and mentoring to PK-12 students. P.O. Box 5632, Berkeley, CA 94705 info@cep.ngo 510-903-1063 EB
Community Housing Partnership Community Housing Partnership pairs affordable housing with resident and clinical support services, employment preparation, job training, a transitional employment social enterprise, and community organizing/resident engagement to create a pathway from homelessness to self-sufficiency. http://chp-sf.org Volunteer opportunities for individuals and corporate groups include policy and program, assisting with fundraising and special events, and teaching resident classes. 20 Jones St., Ste. 200, San Francisco info@chp-sf.org 415-852-5300 SF
Community Services Agency Community Services Agency provides a safety net for elderly, low-income and homeless residents of Mountain View, Los Altos and Los Altos Hills. Services offered include transportation, nutrition services, shopping assistance and case management for seniors; food and emergency financial assistance for low-income people and comprehensive case management for homeless individuals and families. http://csacares.org Voluteers can serve as morning drivers for the Food & Nutrition Center (pick up and deliver food donations), deliver groceries to our senior clients, take older adult clients to doctor’s appointments etc. 204 Stierlin Rd., Mountain View, CA lclark@csacares.org 650-968-0836, ext.114 SB
Compass Family Services Compass Family Services has been helping families facing homelessness transition from crisis to economic stability since 1914. Working with over 5,000 homeless and at-risk parents and children each year, Compass provides comprehensive services needed to help homeless families and those at imminent risk to achieve housing stability, economic self-sufficiency, and well-being. http://compass-sf.org Host a drive or fundraiser, help with administrative duties, organize the office space, serve Sunday dinner to families, fulfill program and classroom wish lists, teach a class or workshop, take photos of events and classes, haul away junk, or scan files. 37 Grove St., San Francisco CA 94102 klamb@compass-sf.org 415-644-0504, ext. 1112 SF
Contra Costa Crisis Center Contra Costa Crisis Center provides telephone crisis counseling, grief counseling and suicide prevention services, including response to 800-273-8255 and 800-784-2433. Provides information and referrals to community programs. Answers all after-hours calls to Contra Costa County Child/Adult Protective Services. Provides individual and group grief support and counseling to adults and children. Clients can call or text "HOPE" to 20121 to reach a crisis counselor 24 hours daily. http://crisis-center.org Crisis-line counselor (training is held twice a year for crisis lines and 211 lines), thrift shop volunteer, clinical internships, community projects volunteer. 307 Lennon Ln., Walnut Creek admin@crisis-center.org 925-939-1916 EB
Contra Costa Interfaith Housing Contra Costa Interfaith Housing’s mission is to heal the effects of poverty and homelessness by providing permanent housing and support services to families and individuals. http://ccinterfaithhousing.org After-school tutors (one day a week), monthly dinners for clients, people with trucks for hauling, and setting up apartments for clients. 399 Taylor Blvd., Ste. 115, Pleasant Hill info@ccinterfaithhousing.org 925-944-2244 EB
Covenant House California Covenant House California provides shelter and sanctuary to youth ages 13-24 experiencing homeless and/or trafficking. http://covenanthousecalifornia.org Tutoring, mentoring, food prep and cooking, administrative tasks, fundraising, facility repair and upkeep. 200 Harrison St., Oakland info@covenanthousecalifornia.org 510-379-1010 EB
Curry Senior Center Curry Senior Center provides health and social services to homeless and low-income San Francisco seniors. Services include health care, counseling, housing, meals, and socialization. http://curryseniorcenter.org/volunteer Volunteers are needed daily to plate and serve food and socialize with the seniors. The breakfast shift runs from 7 to 9 a.m., and lunch runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please call or email to volunteer. 333 Turk St., San Francisco info@curryseniorcenter.org 415-292-1064 SF
Davis Street Resource Center Davis Street Community Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center providing full medical, dental, vision, pediatric services, behavioral health, and women’s health services; quality affordable and subsidized child care at five childcare centers; programs for individuals with developmental disabilities through Stepping Stones Growth Center; and housing, utility assistance, referrals, and emergency food and clothing assistance available to residents of San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Ashland, Cherryland and Castro Valley. http://davisstreet.org Administration and medical volunteers. 3081 Teagarden St., San Leandro N/A 510-347-4620 EB
Delivering Innovation in Supportive Housing (DISH) Delivering Innovation in Supportive Housing provides permanent housing to people who have experienced long-term homelessness and who suffer from serious health issues. DISH is a project of Tides. http://dishsf.org Fund development, marketing and social media strategy, painting projects, sidewalk gardening, Tenant Appreciation, Party Health and Wellness Fair, DISH Anniversary Bash and other fun projects. 123 10th St., 2nd fl., San Francisco info@dishsf.org 415-776-3474 SF
Destination: Home Destination: Home is a public-private partnership that focuses on driving and aligning resources to create more permanent housing for our most vulnerable residents and improve the way systems work together to prevent and reduce homelessness in the community. https://destinationhomesv.org/getinvolved Volunteer with the Housing Ready Communities Initiative to take action for affordable and supportive housing for extremely low income individuals in Santa Clara County. Volunteers can learn effective messaging to debunk homelessness myths, respond to action alerts, speak out at community meetings, drive advocacy campaigns, facilitate neighborhood discussion, host a house party and recruit action network participants. 3180 Newberry Dr., Ste.200, San Jose, CA 95118 info@destinationhomesv.org 408-961-9895 SB
Dolores Street Community Services Dolores Street Community Services serves the Mission and Castro neighborhoods with a variety of programs, including shelter, housing and immigration services. http://dscs.org Volunteers are needed from 6:30 to 10 p.m. every day to serve food, distribute linens and work bingo nights. 938 Valencia St., San Francisco info@dscs.org 415-282-6209 SF
Dorothy Day House Dorothy Day House provides food support, emergency winter shelter and other services. http://dorothydayhouseberkeley.org Preparing and serving food. P.O. Box 12701, Berkeley, CA 94712 DorothyDayHouse@gmail.com 925-519-9881 EB
Downtown Streets Team Downtown Streets Team provides work experience, employment coaching and case management to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. http://streetsteam.org Join neighborhood beautification projects, provide administrative support or volunteer as a group. Learn more about volunteer opportunities and sign up at bit.ly/dstvolunteer. 65 Ninth St., San Francisco info@streetsteam.org 628-600-8310 SF
DrawBridge: An Arts Program for Homeless Children DrawBridge provides art programs for homeless and other underserved children where they live, creating an environment that fosters creativity, joy, self-confidence and hope. http://drawbridge.org Help with weekly art groups, supporting and encouraging the children's creative explorations. A six-month commitment is requested. P.O. Box 2698, San Rafael, San Rafael, CA 94912 beth@drawbridge.org 415-640-4047 NB
East Oakland Collective East Oakland Collective is a community organizing group run by "Millennials+," serving "Deep East Oakland." They work toward racial and economic equity through civic engagement, economic empowerment and homeless services and solutions. http://eastoaklandcollective.com Package and distribute hot meals to homeless and needy twice a week. Prepare and distribute 3,000 lunches and hygiene kits to encampments bimonthly through “Feed the Hood” program. P.O. Box 5382, Oakland, CA 94605 info@eastoaklandcollective.com 510-990-0775 EB
Ecumenical Hunger Program Ecumenical Hunger Program is an organization that provides practical assistance to families and individuals experiencing economic and personal hardships. EHP offers material help, support services and advocacy for our neighbors-in-need in a challenging and rapidly changing environment. http://ehpcares.org Sorting, packing and distributing food boxes; sorting clothing and other soft goods (e.g., linens); gardening; clerical help (data entry, filing, answering phones) 2411 Pulgas Ave., East Palo Alto info@ehpcares.org 650-323-7781 SB
Eden I&R; Eden I&R; is a centralized source of health, housing and human services information in Alameda County and is the operator of 211 Alameda County, the free, 3-digit phone number and website for 24/7 multilingual assistance with referrals to health, housing and human services. 211 is the countywide call center for the Coordinated Entry System to assist homeless people. http://edenir.org Office administrative work, research, updating database listings and making quality-assurance calls to 211 callers. 570 B St., Hayward info@edenir.org 510-537-2710 EB
Episcopal Community Services San Francisco Episcopal Community Services San Francisco operates shelters, Navigation Centers, supportive housing, job training, adult education and senior services. https://ecs-sf.org/volunteer Serve breakfast or dinner at shelters, tutor adult GED students or assist senior citizens. Group volunteer opportunities are also available. 165 Eighth St., 3rd fl., San Francisco aalhosani@esc-sf.org 415-487-3300, ext. 1247 SF
Family Supportive Housing Family Supportive Housing provides temporary shelter and support to guide hundreds of families a year from crisis to independent lives. http://familysupportivehousing.org Prepare and/or serve meals, provide evening child care for preschool kids, lead summer academic and social activities with school-age children, and create/host weekend activities for families. 692 N. King Road, San Jose volunteer@familysupportivehousing.org 408-926-8885 SB
Farming Hope Farming Hope is a nonprofit community organization providing transitional employment and training in the culinary industry to unhoused and low-income people. They sell food at Manny's in the Mission District, and host community dinners throughout the year to bring people from all walks of life to share a meal together. http://farminghope.org Assist employees in gardens, kitchens and at community meals. 3092 16th St., San Francisco team@farminghope.org 415-913-7985 SF
FESCO Family Shelter FESCO (Family Emergency Shelter Coalition), a collaboration of more than 24 churches in mid-Alameda County, offers food, supportive services and emergency, transitional and permanent housing. http://fescofamilyshelter.org Office administrative work and life-skills instructors. 21455 Birch St., Box 5, Hayward N/A 510-886-5473 EB
Food Runners Food Runners collects and delivers more than 17 tons of food a week that would otherwise be thrown away. http://foodrunners.org Deliver food throughout San Francisco on a regular or on-call basis. N/A nancy@foodrunners.org N/A SF
Glide Foundation Glide Foundation provides services including daily free meals, access to health care, child care, housing assistance, harm reduction services, access to legal aid, a safe harbor and unconditional love. http://glide.org Serve meals in the daily free meals program, get involved in the HIV/Hep C services center, help the fundraising or finance office, help at Sunday Celebrations at Glide Church and assist with special events. 330 Ellis St., San Francisco volteam@glide.org 415-674-6081 SF
Haight Ashbury Food Program Haight Ashbury Food Program provides nutritious groceries to approximately 170 low-income people and families in the surrounding 94117 ZIP codes every Saturday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. http://thefoodprogram.org Volunteers are needed to assist with food pantry operations during two volunteer shifts when space is available. Morning setup is from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., and afternoon distribution is from 12:15 to 3:30 p.m. 1525 Waller St., San Francisco. Mailing address: P.O. Box 170202, San Francisco, CA 94117. hafppantry@gmail.com N/A SF
Hamilton Families Hamilton Families established San Francisco’s first shelter for families experiencing homelessness. Today they are San Francisco’s leading service provider to homeless families, with an array of highly effective programs at sites in San Francisco and Oakland. http://hamiltonfamilies.org Work with children in the digital learning center, and many more opportunities. Please email for the best fit. 1631 Hayes St., San Francisco volunteer@hamiltonfamilies.org 415-321-2612 SF
The Healing Well The Healing Well is a holistic healing and wellness center in the Tenderloin. It offers free classes such as yoga, meditation, 12-step programs, art, poetry and improv theater. http://healingwellsf.org Facilitate wellness groups and classes both on-site and in the community, prepare and serve meals, and offer hospitality. 476 Eddy St., San Francisco support@healingwellsf.org 415-500-2099 SF
HealthRight 360 HealthRight 360 provides medical, mental and substance abuse treatment. http://healthright360.org Please see www.healthright360.org/volunteer for open volunteer positions. N/A volunteer@healthright360.org 415-762-3700 SF
Home & Hope Home & Hope provides shelter and a safe haven for homeless families while helping them to regain long-term self-sufficiency. They engage over 1,400 volunteers from over 30 partner congregations and other community organizations to provide support for families every day of the year. https://www.homeandhope.net Cook dinner, coordinate activities for families with children, volunteer overnight, join advisory board, help out in office, participate in annual run/walk, or suggest another skills not mentioned here. 720 El Camino Real, Ste. 7, Burlingame, CA info@homeandhope.net 650-652-1103 SB
HomeFirst HomeFirst provides services, shelter and housing to the homeless and those at risk of homelessness in Santa Clara County. They serve more than 5,000 adults, veterans, families, and youths each year at seven locations including the Boccardo Reception Center, which is the county’s largest homeless services center. http://homefirstscc.org Individuals can donate their time at one of the local shelters, family sites or kitchens, or HomeFirst can also help you complete a service project at your site. 507 Valley Way, Milpitas info@homefirstscc.org 408-539-2100 SB
Homeless Action Center Homeless Action Center provides free public benefits advocacy to low-income people in Alameda County. http://homelessactioncenter.org Internships for law students. 3126 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley; 1432 Franklin St., Oakland; 2601 San Pablo Ave., Oakland info@homelessactioncenter.org Berkeley 510-540-0878; Downtown Oakland 510-836-3260; West Oakland 510-695-2260 EB
Homeless Advocacy Project (HAP) of the Justice & Diversity Center of BASF Homeless Advocacy Project provides legal services to San Franciscans who are homeless or at risk of losing their housing. It prioritizes people with mental health disabilities. http://sfbar.org/jdc/legal-services/hap Attorneys, legal professionals, social service professionals and legal and social work student interns needed. 125 Hyde St., San Francisco jlee@sfbar.org 415-575-3130 SF
Homeless Children's Network Homeless Children's Network reduces the trauma of homelessness and domestic violence by providing mental health consultations and treatment. It also operates a resource center and provides case management. http://hcnkids.org Please call about volunteer opportunities. 3450 Third St., Building 1, Unit 1C, San Francisco admin@hcnkids.org 415-437-3990 SF
Homeward Bound of Marin Homeward Bound of Marin operates the only emergency shelter for homeless families in Marin County, which is the entry point for our Family Services Program. It also operates five supportive-housing programs for families, including a new site called Oma Village in Novato. http://hbofm.org Make dinner for clients at a homeless shelter and help with packaging products. 1385 N. Hamilton Parkway, Novato arey@hbofm.org 415-382-3363, ext. 212 NB
Hospitality House Hospitality House is a progressive, community-based organization located in San Francisco's Tenderloin Neighborhood, Sixth Street Corridor, and Mid-Market Area that provides opportunities and resources for personal growth and self-determination to neighborhood residents and community members struggling with poverty and/or homelessness. The mission of this organization is to build community strength by advocating policies and rendering services which foster self-sufficiency and cultural enrichment. http://hospitalityhouse.org Volunteer at the Annual Art Auction (May 2020) or sign up to become a regular volunteer with the Community Arts Program. 290 Turk St., San Francisco, CA 94102 info@hospitalityhouse.org 415-749-2100 SF
La Casa de las Madres La Casa de las Madres provides shelter and support services to individuals who are at risk of or have been exposed to abuse. http://lacasa.org Community outreach and education, crisis line counseling, drop-in center assistance, shelter assistance, instructors for various activities (yoga, creative writing, etc.), interpretation, marketing, and more. 1269 Howard St., San Francisco comed@lacasa.org 415-503-0500 SF
Lava Mae Lava Mae brings critical services, delivered with a level of care that they call Radical Hospitality™, to the street through programs such as their mobile hygiene service and Pop-Up Care Villages. http://lavamae.org Deliver mobile hygiene or be part of the one-stop Pop-Up Care Villages that bring dozens of services to the street. 1015 Fillmore St. No. 379, San Francisco info@lavamae.org 415-660-7425 SF
La Voz Latina La Voz Latina, operating under the umbrella of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic, supports low-income, monolingual Spanish-speaking immigrants in the neighborhood with housing assistance, immigration information and advocacy, Spanish interpretation, public safety, and leadership and skill development. http://lavozlatinasf.org Macaulay Park event setup and activities, outreach efforts, clerical duties, staffing a weekly food bank at the office. 456 Ellis St., San Francisco dina@thclinic.org 415-983-3970 SF
Larkin Street Youth Services Larkin Street Youth Services empowers youth, ages 12-24, to exit homelessness. The organization provides services including outreach and engagement, housing, education, employment and health programs. http://larkinstreetyouth.org Individual and group volunteer projects vary throughout the year. Contact the volunteer email address for current opportunities. 134 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco volunteer@larkinstreetyouth.org 415-673-0911 SF
Life Learning Academy Life Learning Academy is a public charter high school serving youth who have not been successful in other schools. To meet the needs of some of their homeless and unstably housed students they provide a free on campus dormitory with after school and weekend activities. http://www.lifelearningacademysf.org/ Provide afternoon or evening or weekend classes/activities for high school students. 651 8th St., Treasure Island, San Francisco connect@lifelearningacademysf.org 415-397-8957
LifeMoves LifeMoves provides interim housing and supportive services for homeless families and individuals to rapidly return to stable housing and achieve long-term self-sufficiency. http://lifemoves.org Work directly with clients and children, help to improve facility spaces for clients or help with advocating and education. 181 Constitution Drive, Menlo Park kfinnigan@lifemoves.org 650-685-5880 SB
Loved Twice Loved Twice distributes baby clothing via social workers who serve families with newborns. http://lovedtwice.org Host a baby clothing drive at your office, serve on the board of directors or help raise funds. N/A info@lovedtwice.org N/A EB
Martin de Porres House of Hospitality Martin de Porres House of Hospitality is a free restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch during the week, plus brunch on Sundays (note breakfast only on Mondays, no breakfast on Wednesdays and Saturdays). http://martindeporres.org Help in the kitchen any day. 225 Potrero Ave., San Francisco info@martindeporres.org 415-552-0240 SF
Mercy Housing California Mercy Housing California provides low-income housing programs for families, seniors and people with special needs. http://mercyhousing.org/california Volunteers are needed during regular business hours to help with landscaping, cleaning, community gardening, teaching classes, tutoring, serving as tech support in computer labs, hosting community meals, holiday parties, birthday parties, food banks and administrative and event support. 1256 Market St., San Francisco info@mercyhousing.org 916-330-3356 SF
Miracle Messages Miracle Messages helps neighbors experiencing homelessness reconnect with their loved ones. The approach is simple and effective: a person isolated by homelessness records a short video, audio, or text message to a family member or friend, often with the help of a caseworker at a partner site or a trained volunteer. Then, Miracle Messages' global network of "digital detectives" attempt to locate the loved one and deliver the Miracle Message. http://miraclemessages.org Become a Miracle Messenger (in-person role) record video/audio/text messages from people experiencing homelessness to their loved ones, and relay information back to the homeless client as responses are received, or become a digital detective (remote role) help locate loved ones online and deliver messages. Join for a weekly service event or volunteer training: sign up at miraclemessages.org/getinvolved. 865 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94103 hello@miraclemessages.org 1-800-MISS-YOU SF
Monument Crisis Center Monument Crisis Center is a family resource center that serves central and eastern Contra Costa County. http://monumentcrisiscenter.org Food distribution, client intake, front desk reception, general administration, teaching (ESL, yoga, tai chi, health classes, youth program mentors), tutoring, hosting food drives, hosting toiletries drives. 1990 Market St., Concord volunteer@monumentcrisiscenter.org 925-825-7751 EB
North Beach Citizens North Beach Citizens is a nonprofit homeless resource center that provides housing referrals. http://northbeachcitizens.org/take-action Assist with grants and in-office support. 1034 Kearny St., San Francisco info@northbeachcitizens.org 415-772-0918 SF
Oakland Elizabeth House Oakland Elizabeth House is a shelter that serves homeless women and children. http://oakehouse.org Child care, mentoring, tutoring and office support. P.O. Box 1175, Berkeley, CA 94701 oakehouse@oakehouse.org 510-658-1380, ext. 205 EB
Open Heart Kitchen Open Heart Kitchen serves free prepared meals to the hungry people of the Tri-Valley area. http://openheartkitchen.org Help prepare and serve food. 1141 Catalina Drive No. 137, Livermore volunteerservices@openheartkitchen.org 925-580-1616 ext 405 or 503 EB
PRC (Positive Resource Center) PRC provides people in San Francisco who have HIV/AIDS, substance abuse or mental health problems with integrated legal, social and health services. http://prcsf.org/volunteer Fundraising/marketing, board/committee service, internships, administrative projects, special events support, and client services support. 170 Ninth St., San Francisco volunteer@prcsf.org 415-777-0333 SF
Project Homeless Connect PHC connects people experiencing and at risk of homelessness to services by hosting large-scale events five times a year. Between events, they offer assistance through their Every Day Connect program. Services include medical, dental and vision care, as well as employment counseling, housing assistance and legal aid. http://projecthomelessconnect.org Help facilitate the food bank, cafe and participant check-in and checkout. 25 Van Ness Ave., Ste. 340, San Francisco volunteer@projecthomelessconnect.org 415-503-2124 SF
Project WeHope Project WeHope is an emergency and supportive housing shelter for the unhoused, homeless and at-risk adults in East Palo Alto and surrounding San Mateo County and Santa Clara County communities. This organization also operates a Safe RV Parking Program in Palo Alto as well as Dignity on Wheels, a mobile hygiene unit. http://projectwehope.org Help with client dinners, laundry, fundraising events and more. 1854 Bay Road, East Palo Alto info@projectwehope.com 650-330-8000 SB
Raphael House Raphael House provides shelter and long-term assistance for homeless and low-income families. http://raphaelhouse.org Help in the kitchen, assist with shelter upkeep projects, holiday and special events, tutoring club, children's program, and career development program. 1065 Sutter St., San Francisco ksarver@raphaelhouse.org 415-345-7200 SF
Ritter Center Ritter Center provides health and social services to individuals and families in Marin County. http://rittercenter.org Work directly with clients, fundraising opportunities, outreach, graphic design and general administrative tasks. 16 Ritter St., San Rafael communications@rittercenter.org 415-457-8182, ext. 109 NB
Rubicon Programs Rubicon offers a number of services, including job training and financial literacy skills. http://rubiconprograms.org Tax prep workshop (training will be provided). 2500 Bissell Ave., Richmond allisont@rubiconprograms.org 510-231-3994 EB
Ruby's Place Ruby's Place is a shelter that serves survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. http://rubysplace.org Assist with weekday children's programs, work on landscaping, painting, room remodels and office duties. 20880 Baker Road, Castro Valley info@rubysplace.org 510-581-5626 EB
Safe Alternatives to Violent Environments SAVE provides shelter, support and educational opportunities to individuals and families who are victims of domestic violence. http://save-dv.org Volunteers must complete 40 hours of training to become a domestic violence advocate. For more information please visit http://save-dv.org/you-can-help/volunteer. 1900 Mowry Ave., Ste. 201, Fremont volunteer@save-dv.org 510-574-2250, ext.107 EB
Safe Time Host Safe Time Host coordinates housing for East Bay college students and others at imminent risk of homelessness through a home-sharing program. A thorough screening process including interviews, references and background checks ensures that guests and hosts are compatible and safe. http://safetimehost.org Become a Safe Time host and provide extra space in your home for one to two months. N/A safetimehost@gmail.com 510-524-5525 EB
Samaritan House Samaritan House is the largest truck-to-table food distribution agency in San Mateo County. Other free services include shelter and housing assistance; free medical and dental clinics; free clothing, shoes and backpacks with school supplies for children; personalized case management; and more. http://samaritanhousesanmateo.org Help in the kitchen, pantry, dining room, kids' closet, medical and dental clinics or work with clients directly on money management. 4031 Pacific Blvd., San Mateo info@samaritanhousesanmateo.org 650-341-4081 SB
San Francisco-Marin Food Bank San Francisco-Marin Food Bank's mission is to end hunger in San Francisco and Marin through its pantry network, home-delivered grocery program, nutrition-education classes and food-stamp enrollment. http://sfmfoodbank.org Help repackage bulk food into family-size quantities, assemble grocery boxes and sort food; drive groceries to homebound seniors weekly; drive groceries every other week to West Marin; teach cooking classes with the Nutrition Program. 900 Pennsylvania Ave., San Francisco, 2550 Kerner Blvd., San Rafael volunteer@sfmfoodbank.org 415-282-1900 SF
Shelter Inc. Shelter Inc. provides low-income and homeless families and individuals with housing and resources they need to become self-sufficient. http://shelterinc.org Provide and serve meals at the emergency family shelter in Martinez. To sign up, please go to www.signupgenius.com/go/409044badad2fa3fd0-provide. 1333 Willow Pass Road, Ste. 206, Concord shelter@shelterinc.org 925-335-0698 EB
Shepherd's Gate Shepherd’s Gate is a Christian nonprofit that offers both short-term and long-term and transitional programs tailored to the individual needs of the woman and children they serve. Programs include job-skills training, financial education, nutrition and health lessons, child care, parenting classes and case management. http://shepherdsgate.org Year-round volunteers needed in the following areas: child care, administration, events and facility maintenance. 1660 Portola Ave., Livermore jgandara@shepherdsgate.org 925-443-4283 EB
Simply the Basics Simply the Basics provides basic needs, particularly hygiene products, to the community for improved health. Additional programs include healthy-living classes and in-kind donation support to nonprofit partners. Simply the Basics is the first full-scale hygiene bank in the nation. http://simplythebasics.org Volunteer groups of 5 to 15 people sort and pack hygiene items into kits that are distributed to people in need. Host a drive for unused products. Contact Simply the Basics to learn more about their needs. P.O. Box 591453, San Francisco, CA 94159 admin@simplythebasics.org N/A SF
Social Advocates for Youth Social Advocates for Youth focuses on Sonoma County’s at-risk youths by offering short-term, emergency shelter and affordable housing as well as mental health counseling and career-readiness programs. http://saysc.org Group and Individual volunteers are needed in a variety of capacities. Please see available opportunities on SAY’s website, www.saysc.org/how-to-help/volunteer. 2447 Summerfield Road, Santa Rosa volunteer@saysc.org 707-544-3299 ext. 255 NB
Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Alameda County Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Alameda County offers shelter, food and support to people in need. http://svdp-alameda.org Assist in the dining room/kitchen, at the help desk and more. 2272 San Pablo Ave., Oakland volunteer@svdp-alameda.org 510-638-7600 EB
Sonoma County Homeless Action! Sonoma County Homeless Action! is a grassroots group that works to protect the human rights of homeless people and advocates for housing and other immediate solutions. The group meets every Monday morning from 9:30-11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, McMullin Room, 1551 Montgomery Blvd., Santa Rosa, rain or shine, on holidays too. http://facebook.com/Homeless-Action-379217005553363 Outreach to homeless people, research, policy development, committee work. 1 Kingston Way, Cotati HomelessActionSoCo@gmail.com 707-742-3733 NB
St. Anthony Foundation St. Anthony’s provides meals, medical care, clothing, shelter, addiction recovery services, job training, social services and technology access to people experiencing homelessness and poverty. http://stanthonysf.org/volunteer Volunteers can assist in the dining room, free clothing program, technology lab, medical clinic and social work center, coordinate creative fundraising projects, and serve on committees, the board of directors, and the Young Professionals Council. 150 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco volunteer@stanthonysf.org 415-241-2600 SF
St. Joseph's Family Center St. Joseph's Family Center operates a large food distribution pantry and hot meal program. http://stjosephsgilroy.org Help with pantry operations and hot meal prep and serving. 7950 Church St., Ste. A, Gilroy vickym@stjosephsgilroy.org 408-842-6662, ext. 30 SB
St. Mary's Center Each year St. Mary's Center helps about 1,000 seniors living alone, operates a winter emergency shelter and a year-round drop-in center for homeless women. helps families who need groceries, and operates a preschool for children in poverty. http://stmaryscenter.org Host and serve a meal for shelter guests or the Sunday dinner program; reception and greeting seniors; preschool. 925 Brockhurst St., Oakland development@stmaryscenter.org 510-923-9600 EB
St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco offers shelter, food and support to people in need. http://svdp-sf.org Help at breakfast and dinner shifts, folding clean sheets and linens, computer lab assistance, and the Emergency HotLine (advance training required). St. Boniface Church, 133 Golden Gate Ave.; St. John the Evangelist 1661 15th St., San Francisco malvarenga@svdp-sf.org 415-757-6493 SF
Stand! For Families Free of Violence Stand! provides prevention, intervention and treatment programs to stop domestic violence in Contra Costa. http://standffov.org Provide peer counseling on the crisis line, support children's activities in the emergency shelter, become a Speaker’s Bureau Community Advocate, support administrative projects. 1410 Danzig Place, Concord volunteer@standffov.org For programs/services: 888-215-5555; for volunteer opportunities: 925-603-0175 EB
Sunnyvale Community Services Sunnyvale Community Services operates a food distribution service and offers financial assistance for Sunnyvale and Alviso residents of Santa Clara County. http://svcommunityservices.org Please call about volunteer opportunities. 725 Kifer Road, Sunnyvale info@svcommunityservices.org 408-738-4321 SB
Swords to Plowshares Swords to Plowshares helps build self-sufficiency for veterans in need, particularly those who are homeless or living in poverty. http://swords-to-plowshares.org Various opportunities available; please contact for details. 1060 Howard St., San Francisco; 2719 Telegraph Ave., Oakland volunteers@stp-sf.org 415-252-4788, 510-844-7500 SF
Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corp. TNDC develops community and provides affordable housing and services for people with low incomes in the Tenderloin and throughout San Francisco to promote equitable access to opportunity and resources. http://tndc.org Volunteer in the Tenderloin People’s Garden, help out at the Food Pantry, office administrative work, help at building events, tutor at the Tenderloin After-School Program. 201 Eddy St., San Francisco mnguyen@tndc.org 415-358-3944 SF
The Gubbio Project The Gubbio Project provides resting spots and services for those in need of shelter. http://thegubbioproject.org Assist unhoused guests during the day, cook and serve breakfast, eat with guests, and volunteer on their development and events committee. St. Boniface Church, 133 Golden Gate Ave.; St. John the Evangelist 1661 15th St. admin@thegubbioproject.org 415-861-5848 SF
The Living Room The Living Room gives women and children a place to rest during the day when shelters are closed. http://thelivingroomsc.org Prepare and/or serve breakfast and/or lunch, office assistance. 1207 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa info@thelivingroomsc.org 707-579-0138 NB
The Salvation Army The Salvation Army, a human services faith-based organization, serves the San Francisco Bay Area, helping to mitigate poverty through practical support, spiritual comfort and a holistic, critical safety net to people in need. http://sanfrancisco.salvationarmy.org Volunteers will serve the homeless, work with seniors, seasonal outreach, participate in afterschool programs. Various locations around San Francisco melissa.doppler@usw.salvationarmy.org 415-553-3528 SF
Trinity Center Trinity Center serves homeless and working poor adults in Walnut Creek. Services are offered from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and include providing food, breakfast and hot lunch, showers and laundry, clothing, mail and telephone access, group activities, referral services, and help with benefit applications. They operate an overnight winter shelter (Evening Program) for Trinity Center members every night from December through March. http://trinitycenterwc.org There are various opportunities to assist in daily operations in Walnut Creek. Please contact Trinity Center to discover a way that best fits your interests and talents. The winter shelter, which operates from December through March, relies heavily upon volunteers. Please ask for details. Positions are also available on the board of directors. 1271 S. California Blvd., Walnut Creek info@trinitycenterwc.org 925-949-8712 EB
Tri-Valley Haven Tri-Valley Haven is a leading provider of safety-net services in the cities of Pleasanton, Dublin and Livermore. The Haven works to create sustainable solutions to homelessness and hunger through thrift store, shelter and food pantry services for low-income families and individuals. http://trivalleyhaven.org/ Thrift store volunteers sort donations, organize displays and provide customer service. Food pantry volunteers stock shelves, rotate food, create food bags and assist staff with food pick-ups. 3663 Pacific Avenue, Livermore fatima@trivalleyhaven.org 925-667-2711 EB
Wardrobe for Opportunity Wardrobe for Opportunity helps low-income people find and keep jobs and build careers. http://wardrobe.org Stylists, donation sorters, fundraising committee members, data entry and build-a-career mentors needed. 570 14th St., Ste. 5, Oakland Davis Street Community Center provides medical, dental, vision, pediatric services, behavioral health, and women’s health services; affordable subsidized child care at five centers; programs for individuals with developmental disabilities through Stepping Stones Growth Center; and housing, utility assistance, referrals, and emergency food and clothing assistance to residents of San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Ashland, Cherryland and Castro Valley. 510-463-4100, ext. 216 EB
Welcome Home Project The Welcome Home Project has helped more than 3,200 formerly homeless individuals and children across 2,200 households in San Francisco settle into permanent housing by providing fresh bedding, cookware, tableware, cleaning and hygiene products, small appliances, and other essentials. http://welcomehomesf.org Contact the Welcome Home Project to learn about volunteer opportunities. 301 Grove St., San Francisco 94102 foundation@sfrealtors.com 415-431-8500 SF
West Valley Community Services West Valley Community Services provides critical food, housing and support services to the low-income and homeless individuals and families in the west valley communities of Cupertino, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Saratoga and West San Jose. http://wvcommunityservices.org Sorting food and serving clients in the food pantry, helping to check in clients at the front desk, picking up donations of food from partner grocery stores, providing administrative or IT support, planting or harvesting vegetables in the Community Garden, serving as an interpreter for clients during case management sessions, driving adults 55+ in and around the west valley as part of the RYDE program, supporting fundraising and community events, helping at special events such as the annual Back to School Clothing Program, Thanksgiving Food Baskets, and Holiday Gift Program. 10104 Vista Drive, Cupertino volunteer@wvcommunityservices.org 408-255-8033 SB
Winter Nights Shelter Winter Nights Family Shelter in Contra Costa County provides homeless families with children a clean, safe shelter with bedding at night and a daytime services center. Faith congregations provide space, meals and volunteers on a two-week rotating basis. Professional staff supervise the shelter at all times. https://cccwinternights.org Congregation volunteers provide meals and homework help, read with children, go on outings, make crafts, play games or other activities. 404 Gregory Ln., Pleasant Hill info@cccwinternights.org 925-822-3744 EB

Research

Christina Noori • cnoori@sfchronicle.com
Barry Hodge • bhodge@sfchronicle.com

Interactive producer

Lucio Villa • lvilla@sfchronicle.com • @luciovilla

SF Homeless Project Coverage

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After Division Street: No simple path to ending tent cities
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Interactive map: 7 lives, 7 paths, little change
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Chronicle investigation: Aging hotels, chronic problems
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Seeking help: Federal disability aid an elusive solution
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Long-term view: A problem that looked the same 20 years ago
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Solution possible: Answer starts with supportive housing
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The mentally ill: Streets' costliest residents
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Shelter system: Can a smarter model find success?
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Law enforcement: Can stricter rules curb the crisis?
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Data analysis: How many people live on our streets?
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Photographer’s lens: Portraits of life on SF's streets
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Election 2016: How the candidates view homelessness
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In their voices: How SF's last 5 mayors tackled homelessness
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Editorial: Homelessness remains a civic disgrace
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Letter to the City: The time to act is now