Homelessness Myths and Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

Communicate
"Be the change you wish to see in the world."
- Gandhi

There is a very important and simple way you can help homeless families and individuals in our community, in addition to donating money and household goods. Sharing accurate information about the homeless situation on the Peninsula is a powerful way to help raise awareness of this issue and to create greater momentum toward solutions that work.

This area of the Shelter Network website is dedicated to providing information, and easy ways to communicate it to others, about homeless families and individuals in our community. For example, most people don't realize that the typical homeless person on the Peninsula is just 5 years old.

Reading and sharing this information with your friends, families, neighbors, and colleagues and continuing to learn more about homelessness and its solutions are very important ways you can help.

Sincerely,

Michele Jackson
Executive Director
Shelter Network

It's easy to learn more, and to share the information with others - here's how:

1. Read the myths and facts about homelessness on the Peninsula.

2. Read the most Frequently Asked Questions about Shelter Network.

3. Visit other websites dedicated to the issue of homelessness on a regional or national level:
  • U.S. Dept. of Housing & Urban Development
  • National Coalition on Homelessness
  • 35 Ways You Can Help the Homeless
  • Bay Area Homeless Alliance





    • Frequently Asked Questions about Shelter Network

    What kind of donations does Shelter Network accept and where/how do I give them?
    Financial contributions are always needed, and household goods are also excellent donations and can be given in a variety of easy ways. Click here for more information about donating to Shelter Network.

    How can I become a volunteer for Shelter Network?
    Volunteers are vital to Shelter Network's programs and we welcome individuals, companies, and community groups to give their time and make a difference! For information about current and future volunteer opportunities at Shelter Network please click here.

    Who are the homeless people that Shelter Network helps?
    Many people are surprised to learn that the vast majority of Shelter Network's clients are working families with children. These families and individuals make up an "invisible" segment of homeless people because it is impossible to identify them as "homeless" by sight. They are typically working in low-income jobs, or looking for work during the day, and their children are in school. At night they sleep in the homes of friend and relatives, or sleep in their vehicles.

    What is the demand for shelter on any given night?
    Every night on the Peninsula there are 40-50 homeless families who go without safe shelter because we don’t have space to serve them.

    How effective are Shelter Network's programs?
    Over 80% of families and 65% of single adults completing our transitional housing programs return permanently to homes of their own. Our programs provide families and individuals with the resources and skills to return to self-sufficiency and avoid becoming homeless in the future. We focus on permanent solutions, not just temporary fixes.

    What services are offered by Shelter Network?
    We offer more than just a bed and a meal for the night. Our programs provide safe housing, food and basic necessities as well as one-on-one counseling, childcare and children's programs, and assistance in increasing income, saving, and locating housing.Click here for more information about Shelter Network's programs.

    How does someone who is homeless or about to become homeless apply to get into the Shelter Network program?
    To be eligible for one of Shelter Network's programs, a family or individual must be currently homeless or facing eviction within a week, currently live or work in San Mateo County, be willing to participate in the program and follow all the program rules, and meet certain other criteria relating to substance addition, criminal records, and domestic violence. If you meet these qualifications, you will first need to contact a community referral agency for a referral. Click here for more information about applying to the Shelter Network program.

    How can I find out about jobs at Shelter Network?
    For information about current job opportunities at Shelter Network please click here.

    I'm doing a school project about homelessness. How can I find out more information?
    While there is a wealth of information available throughout this Web site relative to homelessness on the Peninsula, other organizations also have information regarding homelessness in the Bay Area and nationally. Click here for a list of organizations.

    Does Shelter Network collaborate with other organizations or agencies?
    Shelter Network works extensively with other nonprofits and community groups to meet all the needs of the families and individuals we serve. By collaborating, we build on the expertise of established community partners, and avoid unnecessary duplication of services. Some of our partners include Second Harvest Food Bank, St. Anthony's Kitchen, Family Service Agency, Institute for Human and Social Development (Head Start provider), Project 90, Women's Recovery Association, Service League, and numerous others.