a powerful message to all in our downtown... do not give money directly to panhandlers, there's a better way to help!

Real Change from Spare Change is an initiative of the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership (www.downtownchapelhill.com).  Our mission is to bring the resources of the Town, University, and the downtown community together to maintain, enhance and promote downtown through economic development.

If you don’t give your change to a panhandler, what can you do with it? Although it may seem small, donating your spare change can make a difference when it comes to funding basic human needs.

The funds raised go to the Housing for New Hope's street outreach team in Orange County, NC (www.housingfornewhope.org). Outreach workers help clients get medical attention, mental health services, navigate the human services system and get into a healthier life style and permanent homes. Funds also support community education to teach people that there is a better way to help those in need.

NEWS & UPDATES:
  
Join us on Facebook! Become a Fan of Real Change from Spare Change and get instant updates on volunteer opportunities, events, and news regarding homelessness issues in our community.

 I Support IFC's Community House!
And you can too - Join their Facebook page, follow the March on Poverty blog, commit yourself and volunteer your time, donate to the Food First pantry...there are many ways to get involved! 



Donations Committee Coordinators Needed for PHC:
Orange County's 4th annual Project Homeless Connect will take place on Thursday, November 4, 2010. The planning committee is in need of volunteers who would like to coordinate the donations for the event. This is a great opportunity for a faith-based group, community organization, or anyone that would like to be involved in making a direct impact on the lives of people in our community who are homeless or at risk for experiencing homelessness.  If you are interested and would like more details, please contact Meg McGurk at 919-967-9440 or meg@downtownchapelhill.com. 

  
The Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness has published its 2009 Annual Report highlighting progress toward achieving the goals of its Ten-Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness.  The Plan was adopted in 2007 and focuses on five main goals: Reduce Chronic Homelessness; Increase Employment; Prevent Homelessness; Increase Access to Services; and Increase Public Participation in Ending Homelessness.