Celebrating Impact: Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

With the holidays approaching, it can be difficult for many of our neighbors experiencing poverty and homelessness to make ends meet. National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is an annual program observed the week before Thanksgiving when people come together to draw attention to food insecurities and homelessness.

St. Joseph Center serves nearly 15,000 Angelenos experiencing poverty and homelessness annually, and we are committed to making a difference. We're hosting a Thanksgiving food drive as a part of our Share the Season campaign and in observance of National Hunger and Homelessness Week. St. Joseph Center's team and volunteers will distribute 1500+ turkeys with sides for low-income families and seniors, ensuring a warm Thanksgiving meal. In addition, St. Joseph Center's Food Pantry and Bread and Roses Café programs provide supplemental meals and groceries so many struggling neighbors can prioritize paying rent.

These efforts are making a difference. Los Angeles' Westside (Service Planning Area 5), where St. Joseph Center is the lead service provider, saw the most significant decrease in people experiencing homelessness, with a 19% decrease over the past year.  

How can you help? Volunteer, donate, or educate. By working together, we can ensure everyone has a safe place to call home and a meal to share.

Download our local resource guide or donate using the link below. Thank you!

From Challenges to Triumph: Jose Receives Keys to His First Apartment

Los Angeles Native Jose has overcome incredible challenges, and with the support of St. Joseph Center, he now has a place to call home. His biggest goals were to maintain sobriety and mental stability. After completing The FIST Diversion and Community Based Restoration program, Jose graduated and volunteered in the Office of Diversion and Reentry (ODR).

Jose worked closely with his St. Joseph Center case manager, Domoinique, not only to secure housing but also to develop the skills needed to maintain it. Together, they focused on money management, distinguishing between wants and needs, and building long-term stability.

St. Joseph Center client Jose at his first apartment in Koreatown.

Empowered by his progress, Jose created a polished resume and is now confidently pursuing a career in maintenance. In November, his hard work paid off as he proudly received the keys to his first apartment, making his dream a reality.

St. Joseph Center proudly celebrates Jose's new home and the incredible milestones he has achieved. We are honored to have been part of his journey and look forward to supporting him as he continues to build a brighter future filled with even more triumphs.

Learn more about our housing programs here: www.stjosephctr.org

Measure A Passes: Voters Support Half-Cent Sales Tax

To Address the Homelessness Crisis

Measure A has officially passed, thanks to your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment! Over 57% of voters approved Measure A to address homelessness in LA County. This measure will generate funding for homeless services in LA County, enhancing shelter, mental health support, prevention, and housing assistance programs. Advocates believe this bold approach will be crucial in alleviating the homelessness crisis by offering vital resources that meet people where they are. With this new funding, communities can take more effective action to create preventative solutions for those experiencing homelessness.

Every action, big or small, mattered and contributed to this transformative outcome. Together, we’re building a stronger foundation for homelessness, poverty, and affordable housing solutions. Thank you for being part of this journey with St. Joseph Center. Let’s continue to move forward, making real and lasting changes in our community!

Source: Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk