SARASOTA, Fla., Nov. 4, 2021 – Second Heart Homes Inc. has purchased two properties as part of its new, first-of-its-kind homeless women’s program. The program is an extension of the nonprofit’s proven support model for homeless men. The new program will provide housing, stability and tailored support services to 12 homeless women with mental health issues beginning next month.
“November is National Homelessness Awareness Month, but it surprises many people that homeless women have higher rates of mental illness, trauma, addiction, physical and sexual abuse and premature death than homeless men,” said Megan Howell, founder and executive director of Second Heart Homes.
“Sarasota has more than 200 homeless women, but there aren’t enough supportive housing services to meet their special needs. Sadly, many fall through the cracks. We aim to change this with partial proceeds from our ‘Home is Where the Heart is’ holiday campaign,” she said.
“Home is Where the Heart is,” the organization’s $75,000 unrestricted holiday campaign, will help expand the nonprofit’s offerings to homeless adults with mental health issues through critical investments in:
· A new women’s housing and supportive services program
· Stronger homeless outreach
· Additional housing for men
· Expanded self-care, skill building and interpersonal development
· Volunteer recruitment and training
· Increased access to community programs, services and resources
· Staff hiring and training
· Goods and services for client care and home maintenance
· Post-program client support
The “Home is Where the Heart is” campaign runs through Dec. 31st. For more information, and to make a gift, visit http://www.secondhearthomes.org.
About Second Heart Homes
Second Heart Homes Inc. is a fast-growing 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Sarasota that helps homeless adults with mental illness secure housing and become self-sufficient. The organization provides permanent and transitional homes, daily supportive services and skill-building workshops tailored to clients’ individual needs. Clients come to the organization based on their commitment to address their mental and physical health, remain sober and achieve personal goals toward self-sufficiency. Many later rejoin the community. For information and to donate, visit secondhearthomes.org.
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