| There's a Better Way To Help! |
 Real Change from Spare Change is a community-wide initiative designed to educate, encourage, and empower all in our community to bring real change for homeless persons in need. The initiative raises funds to support street outreach in Orange County, to coordinate educational efforts regarding homelessness issues, and to send a powerful message to all in our downtown... do not give money directly to panhandlers, there's a better way to help!
Funds raised go towards the Housing for New Hope PATH Street Outreach program that helps homeless individuals navigate the human services system and get into a healthier life style in permanent homes. Funds also support community education through outreach, public forums, arts initiatives and more.
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DONATE NOW! There's a better way to help. Make a secure,online donation today - CLICK HERE. All donations are tax deductible.
BE CREATIVE! The spare change laying around your house, car, and office can add up and make a difference. Here's a list of creative ways to gather spare change - CLICK HERE! BECOME A FAN! Join us on Facebook to get updates on community forums, volunteer opportunities, fundraising events and more - CLICK HERE! |
| Spare Change Can Make a Difference!
Since the spring of 2007, the Housing for New Hope PATH Street Outreach program has outreached to over 700 homeless individuals. PATH has helped over 50 individuals access supportive mental health services, over 15 individuals get alcohol and/or drug treatment, and over 200 people begin the path to safe, supportive housing...all in Orange County.
Your spare change has helped to:
-- fund a formerly homeless, part-time outreach worker.
-- fund a Housing Support Coordinator who assists homeless persons obtain and maintain stable, safe housing.
--support awareness campaigns and events on the UNC Campus.
--provide posters, post cards and cans on display in businesses downtown; providing visitors a place to give their spare change.
--provide 'FREE SERVICES' cards that can be given to those in need, instead of money. |
Don't Give Directly To Panhandlers!
Giving money directly to panhandlers may not help their true needs. We often perceive panhandlers as having an immediate need for cash to buy food, shelter, and services. In reality, free food, shelter, and services are available in our community. Although panhandling is often associated with homelessness, most panhandlers are not homeless. Lastly, panhandling has a negative effect on our community by keeping people away from patronizing businesses and services downtown. |
| Real Change from Spare Change is an initiative of the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership. For more information please contact Meg McGurk, Assistant Director, at 919-967-9440 or meg@downtownchapelhill.com. |
