TEMPE, Ariz. (Jan. 4, 2022): Individuals experiencing homelessness or on the brink of homelessness in and around Tempe will be connected with a range of services and resources during Project Connect from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University Presbyterian Church, 139 E. Alameda Drive in Tempe.

Between 250 and 300 guests are expected at the event organized by the Human Services Campus (HSC) in collaboration with many of the 16 nonprofit partners on the 13-acre campus near downtown Phoenix. Volunteers are needed. For information, contact Monica Hakala at mhakala@hsc-az.org.

Guests will be able to meet with professionals providing housing support, healthcare screenings, job search and preparation, legal assistance, and vital records and identification replacement, among others.

COVID-19 screenings, tests, and vaccines also will be available and guests will have access to clothing, haircuts, showers, food, and even bicycle repairs.

“Project Connect meets individuals experiencing homelessness where they are with services and resources in one place that may be otherwise unavailable for those looking for a path from street to home,” said HSC Executive Director Amy Schwabenlender.

Nonprofit agencies committed to the one-day event include HSC, A New Leaf, Andre House, Basic Mission, Catholic Charities, Central Arizona Shelter Services, Circle the City, Community Bridges, Department of Economic Security, Homeless ID Project, Justa Center, St. Joseph the Worker, St. Vincent de Paul, Tempe Community Council and UnitValley of the Sun United Way.

The City of Tempe is proud to once again be hosting Project Connect, in partnership with University Presbyterian Church, to assist individuals and families in need. Homelessness is a regional issue and the city is grateful that so many partners are coming together for this event.

“We are continually investing to expand and enhance resources for those experiencing homelessness in Tempe,” said Tempe Mayor Corey Woods. “Project Connect is a great way Tempe can help individuals and families in our city.”

COVID protocols will be implemented to ensure appropriate social distancing, sanitization processes and masks.

Each guest will be assigned a volunteer to assist them in being connected to the services and resources they need.

Food trucks and a mobile shower unit also will be on site.

“Connecting people with services is the first step in moving from street to home,” Schwabenlender said. “We are grateful to the Valley of the Sun United Way for the support and financial investment that is making this project possible.”

For more information about the Human Services Campus and its 16 nonprofit partners, visit www.hsc-az.org.