If you’re struggling to find somewhere to donate for Giving Tuesday, have no fear. There are plenty of social issues out there that could use your help year round, and there are more than enough avenues to do so. Homelessness, for example, remains a national issue that needs our attention. While the national numbers have dropped by 3 percent, big city homelessness is on the rise, leading us to wonder: how can we solve this problem?
Fortunately, the startup community is on the job. With all the power of entrepreneurship at their backs, companies around the country are doing their part in building up homeless people in a way that will set them up for success in the future. These are not charitable organizations; these are companies that are supporting the skill sets of the homeless to give them a fresh startup in society.
Take a look at a few companies below that are doing their part to make life a little better for homeless people in this country.
Miracle Messages
Miracle Messages reconnects people living on the streets with their loved ones, through short video messages and social media. To date, 40 percent of reunions have lead to stable housing. Founder Kevin F. Adler started Miracle Messages in honor of his Uncle Mark, who lived on-and-off the streets for 30 years. Their goal is to reunite 1 million people by 2021.
HandUp
HandUp partners with non-profit human services organizations to raise money online for homeless people. These organizations can fundraise for things like special programs, client needs, and program and operational expenses. With HandUp, users can donate to a specific person via their web profile or SMS, learn about their story and needs, and hear updates on their progress.
ArtLifting
ArtLifting empowers homeless, disabled, and other disadvantaged individuals through the celebration and sale of their artwork. Artists’ work is sold through an online art gallery and direct to businesses, including offices, hotels, and restaurants.
Flickr / Fran Urbano