During the winter seasons, giving back to the community, friends, or even people in need, matters more than we think. Even if you cannot financially or physically assist people who are homeless, it is always beneficial to know where to point someone who may need help.
This holiday season, nearly 600,000 Americans will spend the holidays homeless and without proper shelter or food, according to benefits.gov.
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Benefits.gov has resources available to help our fellow citizens in need, especially if funds and access is limited. No matter where you are, you can always make a difference. Below are various different resources that people in need may use:
- Look for local shelters on the Homeless Shelter Directory and share the information with those in need.
- Youth between the ages of 16 and 22 can apply for the Transitional Living Program for Homeless Youth, which provides stable and safe living accommodations for up to 21 months.
- Find local food banks that provide food and nutrition to individuals and families in need by visiting FeedingAmerica.org. Often, local shelters and food banks are looking for volunteers over the holidays.
- The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Through WIC, pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, along with infants and children up to age five, receive supplemental foods, nutrition education, referrals, and access to health and social services at no cost. To learn more, visit the WIC Program page.
- The Homeless Veterans Programs help veterans return to employment, find safe housing, and provide health care and mental health services. To learn more, visit the Homeless Veterans Programs page.
