This project will raise funds needed to operate the current programs of OATH, and towards the renovation of our building into a transitional housing for homeless who qualify. We currently provide showers, clothing, food, laundry, haircuts and job opportunities to our area homeless population. We can get them "off the street and back on their feet!".
According to the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, in Pennsylvania around 15,000 a day are experiencing homelessness. These numbers include children. Some homeless can not find jobs due their appearance, lack of identification, or lack of job experience. In the Lehigh Valley over 1,000 families are at risk of homelessness and around another 1,300 are currently on the streets.
Operation Address the Homeless created a seperate company OATH Builders to address the issue of employment for the homeless. OATH Builders provides job opportunities to anyone who qualifies regardless of their situation to help them better their lives. We also provide showers, haircuts, clothing and food to the homeless population as a whole. The goal is to help these homeless men, women and their children in some cases, build their own empowerment.
Operation Address the Homeless already has many success stories. We hope the impact of our program helps to get the majority of the over 100 people we currently service to a better place in their lives. We are also currently working with the Allentown City Council to develop a program that would provide tiny houses or huts to qualified individuals to help them get on their feet. The funds raised from the GlobalGiving community would go towards OATH programs to realize that goal.
