CARE Competitors

MISSION: Columbus House serves people experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk by providing life-saving outreach, shelter and housing and by fostering their personal growth and independence. We advocate for and create affordable housing to end homelessness in our communities. Columbus House opened its doors in 1982 to provide services for homeless men and women at least 18 years of age. Our goals quickly broadened from the mere provision of food and shelter and simple survival, to understanding and working toward overcoming the problems which cause people to become homeless. In addition to food, shelter and the provision of basic human needs, Columbus House goes deeper by providing comprehensive case management. Our case managers provide assessment and then referrals to appropriate community services for many of the common root causes of homelessness: loss of job; lack of affordable housing; substance abuse; mental health issues; lack of education and job skills; personal histories of abuse and neglect, etc. Located in New Haven, CT, with programs in Waterbury and Middletown, Columbus House is a 501 c 3 non-profit organization that relies on government grants as well as contributions from the private sector including businesses, foundations and individuals. In order to accomplish our stated goals of moving people beyond homelessness, we rely on extensive volunteer support and collaborate with a number of community-based service agencies to provide a continuum of care for all of our clients.

Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, a private nonprofit organization, is the largest provider of homeless services in Central Florida. Our mission is to transform the lives of homeless men, women and children by providing crucial services to end their crisis of homelessness. The Coalition operates two campuses, both located in downtown Orlando. The main campus includes the Center for Women & Families (CWF) and the Men’s Service Center (MSC). With the community’s support, we make a difference in the lives of Central Florida’s neighbors in need every day.

Thrive DC, an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, works to prevent and end homelessness by providing vulnerable individuals with a comprehensive range of services to help stabilize their lives. Thrive DC serves approximately 2,000 homeless and vulnerable individuals in the Washington Metro area annually. We welcome anyone in need providing services to men and women of all ages, backgrounds, races and ethnicity. The individuals who come through our doors often face complex barriers to a more stable life. They are hungry and sick, frustrated and confused, and lonely and hopeless. Many are diagnosed with mental illness, and some struggle with substance abuse. Others have been victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. A majority live with chronic health problems – often without regular access to crucial care. For these individuals, Thrive DC provides a low barrier, vitally needed safety net. Thrive DC is often their last hope in the face of food insecurity, extreme poverty and homelessness and the first step towards independence and self-sufficiency.