MISSION
Downtown Streets Team's mission is, on behalf of all members of our community, to refine, expand, and communicate our model to eliminate current and prevent future homelessness -- a model that is embraced by local government leaders and owned by the community as a whole. Learn More
MODEL
Downtown Streets Team employs a Work-First model in which members of the homeless community have the opportunity to rebuild their lives through our volunteer work-experience program. DST is a stepping stone for those members of the homeless community who have committed to change their lives for the better and are ready to transition back into mainstream society. We coordinate the efforts of local government officials, law enforcement, businesses, and volunteers to create job opportunities and hands-on case management for the homeless. In exchange for food/housing vouchers and services, team members sweep streets, line soccer fields, perform janitorial work, run kitchens, clean environmental habitats, and much more. Our participants earn everything they get from our organization; we are not a charity. Learn More.
IMPACT
Since Downtown Streets Team was launched in 2005, more than 100 participants have found jobs and another 100 have found permanent housing. Downtown Streets Team has helped other communities implement this innovative model to empower their own homeless populations. These cities include San Jose, CA (two teams); Gilroy, CA; & Daytona Beach, FL. Many other cities around the nation have expressed interest in Downtown Streets Team’s model, and part of our long-term plans is to spread our model nationwide. Learn More
