MICHAEL S. WIRTZ / Inquirer Staff Photographer
Adam Bruckner (left) of Restart, which helps the homeless get meals and identification.
Homeless in Philadelphia: First of three parts
Web sites on homelessness
If someone asks for money …
Don’t give. It will likely feed an addiction, says a coalition of groups that work with the homeless. Instead, offer to buy a cup of coffee or a meal.
If someone needs services …
For the mentally or physically impaired, call the Philadelphia Outreach Coordination Center at 215-232-1984.
For families, direct them to the city’s main family intake center — Appletree Family Center at 1430 Cherry St. 215-686-7150. Or the Salvation Army/Eliza Shirley House, 1320 Arch St.; 215-568-5113.
For men: RHD-Ridge Avenue Center at 1360 Ridge Ave.; 215-236-0909.
For more information about homelessness, here are some groups to contact:
The National Alliance to End Homelessness, Washington, D.C.-based lobbying, research and advocacy group, has a full list of links to other homeless organizations.
Project H.O.M.E., Philadelphia organization founded by Sister Mary Scullion, who is at the forefront of providing outreach, shelter and services to homeless people.
Reading, Willing & Able, Philadelphia branch of the program begun in New York City.
One Neighborhood, a coalition aimed at developing and implementing solutions to homelessness.To volunteer; here are some options:
Go to the city’s Web page for homelessness, for the One Neighborhood coalition.Or e-mail Erin O’Brien, volunteer coordinator at Project HOME: erinobrien@projecthome.org
Bethesda Project, a faith-based group that cares for the poor and the homeless.Northwest Interfaith Hospitality Network, which provides help through local congregations.
People’s Emergency Center, helps families get access to services, housing, income, education and technology they need to achieve and maintain independence.
Ready, Willing and Able, which has participants being paid an hourly stipend for their maintenance services, from which they pay for room and board.
Dignity Housing, a nonprofit established by formerly homeless people, which provides affordable rental housing with individualized social services, homeownership opportunities, assistance in pursuit of education objectives, workforce development, and financial management assistance.
Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia
