The True North Housing Alliance has initiated its fourth annual Home Again campaign, aiming to raise $200,000 to support homeless seniors and individuals with disabilities. Launched on November 2, 2023, the campaign will run until December 31, 2023 and is part of a broader effort to address the alarming rise of homelessness among the elderly.
According to Ashiah Bird, the marketing and communications director at True North, senior homelessness is escalating in the United States, with nearly 140,000 seniors experiencing homelessness on any given night. Bird noted that this figure is projected to triple by 2030. “It’s obviously a very heartbreaking thing to have to respond to, but we’re grateful for the impact we’ve been able to have,” she stated.
Since its inception in November 2022, the Home Again campaign has successfully provided sheltered housing services to nearly 600 seniors. Bird emphasized the urgent need for assistance, noting that approximately 25% of those served at True North’s Torres Shelter are seniors, with 83% reporting a disability.
The funds raised through the campaign contribute to a range of essential services, including hygiene supplies, bedding, and clothing. Bird detailed how they assist clients in overcoming barriers to stability, stating, “People who come to our programs really have literally nothing. They don’t have an ID; they don’t have their social security card, but they might qualify for benefits if they’re a senior who’s retired.”
In addition to basic needs, the organization helps clients secure housing. “We ensure that their place is furnished so they’re not just moving into an empty apartment,” Bird added.
This year’s campaign features a matching initiative. True North has partnered with Chuck Patterson Toyota and the Stiefvater Senior Endowment to match every dollar raised up to $50,000. With $80,000 raised thus far, the total, including matching funds, reaches approximately $130,000. Donations can be made online at truenorthbutte.org/home-again or by check at the True North Housing Alliance located at 101 Silver Dollar Way, Chico, California.
In addition to the Home Again campaign, several other local initiatives are underway to assist those in need.
Community Support Initiatives
On December 6, 2023, the Butte County Jamaica Relief is hosting a hurricane relief event at the Chico Women’s Club. This event responds to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, where the estimated cost of rebuilding is around $10 billion. The relief effort aims to raise funds for lifesaving supplies, including food, clean water, and rebuilding materials. Community members can purchase tickets or donate through the relief fund’s GoFundMe page.
Additionally, Cal Fire-Butte County will hold its annual Fill the Boot fundraiser on December 2, 2023, to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association. With collection points in Oroville and Gridley, the event will run from 09:00 to 15:00. All proceeds will aid families affected by muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases.
The collective efforts of these campaigns reflect a strong commitment within the community to address homelessness and provide support to vulnerable populations.
