The program provides an enormous range of services. Upon stepping onto the bright blue porch of the main office, one is greeted by a strong sense of community and care. The Welcome Center provides clients with clothing, toiletries, and lunches, as well as a comforting place to relax and talk amongst friends. Free health care and addiction and mental health evaluation and counseling are provided along with access to phones, a permanent address for mail to be delivered, laundry services, and a shower facility.
The organization reaches out in order to build lasting relationships with the men and women who come to them. Staff assist clients in navigating and utilizing public benefits and resources, developing and maintaining transitional and permanent housing programs, as well as supporting congregation-based shelter programs in the area.
Volunteers are crucial to the success of the program. Neighborhood groups, concerned citizens, school groups, congregations, businesses, etc. are all welcome and necessary for the delivery and support of crucial services for the organization. From assistance with donations, to individuals to take part in annual events such as the Help the Homeless Walkathon, to help with advocacy for policies and resources to fight homelessness, to simply using word of mouth to get others involved, volunteers are respected and appreciated by this group like no other.
I began working with CCHFP as an intern four years ago and I still cannot thank them enough for the experience they gave me. This group creates a sense of community that many other organizations overlook. This sense of compassion and concern for their clients is what separates this nonprofit from so many others that I have worked with. They place a human face on the issue of homelessness and inspire individuals to work towards change.
For more information on services, events, and how you can get involved, visit www.cchfp.org or contact Bill Long at 202-364-1419 x23. You will not regret it!
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