Your first step should be to call 211. If you are not familiar with 211, think of it just like 911, only instead of connecting you to emergency services in your area, it connects you to information and referrals for health, human, and social service organizations. Calling this number can get the ball rolling on finding space in a homeless shelter, information on getting food stamps, rental assistance, things of that nature.
You do not have to be homeless to use this number. If you are on the verge of homelessness, call them and see if there are programs that can help you remain in your home. If you don’t know who you should be contacting, they will point you in the right direction.They can help you get to a safe space, so that you can work towards finding a long term space to live.
MACH is a coalition of over a score of local organizations and agencies that work with the homeless community. They work to source HUD funding to groups in the area operating in this space. Of most relevant use to the recently homeless is their Street Outreach program. Through this workers provide services and case management to the homeless living on the streets or in places not meant for human habitation. The Outreach Worker is on call five days a week during business hours to respond to requests for assistance received directly by MACH and through the 2-1-1 Connects Call Center. For all their services go to:
midalhomeless.org/
Hands on River Region - They operate our local 211, and they are always open to volunteers. For more information: handsonriverregion.org/
Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless - They accept monetary donations that they use to fund things like bus passes, state identification, and outreach workers.
Feed the Meter - You may have seen them around town, bright green parking meters. Money placed in these goes to support MACH.
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