You Cannot Solve Homelessness Without Mental Health Support.

Dear Supporter,

As the cool October air rolls in, we are reminded of the opportunities this month brings to foster understanding, empathy, and action. Together, we stand at the intersection of two crucial observances: Mental Illness Awareness Week and World Mental Health Day, aligned poignantly with World Homeless Day. These occasions invite us to reflect on the vital role mental health plays in the lives of those we serve at Ascencia.

Every day, we witness the resilience of individuals experiencing homelessness, each journey unique, each challenge deeply personal. It is important to acknowledge that mental health plays an integral part in these stories. For some, mental health issues are a cause, and for many more, a consequence of homelessness. In Los Angeles County, over 21% of people experiencing homelessness have a diagnosed serious mental illness. Nationally, about 1 in 4 unsheltered homeless individuals live with serious mental illness, and many more struggle with moderate mental health challenges.

At Ascencia, we provide comprehensive support that respects the dignity of everyone, meeting them where they are with compassion and understanding. Since our Mental Health Services are not government- or grant-funded, but instead kept afloat by our local community, we must state how grateful we are for your support. Your involvement helps us to ensure that mental health care stays woven into the fabric of our services, offering a lifeline to those who need it most. Last year, Ascencia provided hundreds of hours of mental health support to our clients, as well as countless referrals to other resources to support their unique needs.

Thank you for being a critical part of our mission by supporting our mental health and wellness programs. Let us stand together to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and homelessness by sharing stories, spreading awareness, and advocating for compassionate understanding. For ways to support our mental health programs, click here.

Financial Literacy Graduates

On September 24th, we honored our two graduates, Kenneth and Judith, for successfully completing their Financial Literacy course. In total, 24 clients from Ascencia have participated in this program and graduated.

Led by Ray Cole, Ascencia’s Director of Enhanced Care Management Hospital Liaison & Wellness Manager, the course covers:

The importance of budgeting
The difference between checking and savings accounts
The impact of poor credit on individuals
The importance of paying rent and bills on time

This program empowers our clients to maintain financial stability and equips them with long-term tools for success. Congratulations to Kenneth and Judith on this remarkable achievement!

Holloway Interim Housing Program is OPEN!

On September 30th, we proudly hosted an Open House for the Holloway Interim Housing Program with the City of West Hollywood! After a few years in development, the program has finally begun to provide safe, supportive interim housing for unhoused community members in West Hollywood.

Attendees joined us for a ribbon cutting, self-guided tours of the reimagined facility, and conversations with West Hollywood City leaders and Ascencia's staff, board, and supporters.

Thank you to everyone who came out to learn, support, and celebrate.

Funded by a Homekey grant provided to West Hollywood, The Holloway will be operated by Ascencia to offer up to 90 days of stability, connection, and opportunity for those ready to take the next step toward permanent housing. For more info on the Holloway Interim Housing Program, visit weho.org/holloway or email Holloway@AscenciaCA.org.

The Supper Club: Goal Exceeded!

Great News! We exceeded our Summer 2025 goal of $50,000 to fund three months of shelter meals! In total, we raised $69,500 by end of summer.

We are so grateful for every donor who contributed. Your donations will fund breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for all of our residents as they are transitioning out of homelessness.

The Supper Club will live on as a way for our supporters to help us with ongoing food costs. Your commitment is more than a meal, it is that peace of mind and compassion provided by your benevolence. THANK YOU!!!

Fundraise for Ascencia this Holiday Season!

Ascencia now offers a way to support its mission through our GoFundMe Nonprofit page. You can set up a fundraiser for special occasions like holidays, birthdays, or in honor of a loved one.

GoFundMe simplifies the process with templates, graphics, and captions, making it easy to spread the word.

Set up a fundraiser and become part of a community dedicated to lifting individuals and families out of homelessness.

To get involved, visit gofundme.com/charity/ascencia and help us inspire others to join this important work.

Adopt-A-Family is Coming Soon!

Support our clients once again this Holiday season by "adopting" and shopping their wish lists! The program launches Monday, November 3rd, so be sure to check your email and social media to get notified when signups go live.