Tech for the other 1%

A Harvard i-lab
supported project

REACH OUT

Direct involvement with people experiencing homelessness is incredibly impactful. Ways to help include:

Volunteering at shelters

Assist with daily operations or share your professional skills.

Community events

Bring people experiencing homelessness into community activities and organize shelter events.

Educational outreach

Teach and learn from the guests at shelters about various topics and skills.

CONTRIBUTE

Material donations are crucial. Consider donating today. Items and services needed include:

Clothing

Clean, well-fitting clothes and shoes are essential not just for protection from the elements, but also for maintaining self-esteem and improving job prospects. Contact your local shelter to see what they need, as many have limited storage and specific requirements.

In-kind services and materials

Things like copying, printing, food, transportation, and building materials can be greatly beneficial.

Household items

Kitchen utensils, furniture, and children’s items like toys and books are often needed.

Books and Mobile Phones

Donations of books and devices can help provide life-changing information and entertainment.

Homeless survival kits

Assemble kits with essential items like soap, shampoo, and toothbrushes. Organize drives for warm clothing during cold weather.

Job opportunities and support

Help integrate people experiencing homelessness into the workforce and support them as they find their way out of the streets or shelters.

ADVOCATE

Advocacy is vital for systemic change to end homelessness. This includes:

Coalition involvement

Join or donate to housing and homelessness advocacy groups.

Political engagement

Respond to legislative alerts, attend meetings, and communicate with officials about homelessness issues.

Media involvement

Use the media to raise awareness and write editorials on key issues.

Voter registration

Help people experiencing homelessness to vote and advocate for their voting rights.

EDUCATE

Understanding and spreading knowledge about homelessness is critical:

Learning resources

Utilize websites and organizations dedicated to homelessness to stay informed and educate others. Notable sites include:

Community education

Share information with your community and involve local news outlets to keep the public informed.

Children’s education

Engage with teaching materials to discuss homelessness with children.