City of Phoenix and UMOM Open 100 New Shelter Beds for Families Experiencing Homelessness

These new units will help address the critical gap in family shelter capacity in Maricopa County, where an estimated 358 families are currently waiting up to nine weeks for stable shelter options. The new space is expected to serve up to 80 families, including 200 children, each year.

"This project is definitely one to celebrate, and will no doubt have life-changing effects on all the families who pass through this shelter on their way to end their homelessness," Mayor Kate Gallego said. "It's also a good example of how our collaboration with community partners, like UMOM, strengthen our ability to help our most underserved residents."

"Today, we are not just opening the doors to a building with beds; we are opening the doors to new opportunities, new beginnings and new possibilities for the single women and families who will find refuge at UMOM Day Centers," said District 8 Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington. "The City of Phoenix is committed to working with our partners to provide resources and support to help individuals in need."

This expansion, funded by a $2 million allocation from the City's Phoenix Housing Department through HOME ARP funds, reflects the City's commitment to providing immediate relief to families while supporting long-term stability.

"This project is a testament to the power of collaboration," said Spencer Self, Director of the City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department. "Together, we are able to turn C ity funds into real solutions for families, ensuring that children have safe shelter and families have a foundation on which to rebuild. We are grateful to our partners at UMOM, as well as our City partner departments on this project including the Hous ing Department and Office of Homeless Solutions."

"Everyone deserves a safe place to raise their family," said Rachel Milne, Office of Homeless Solutions Director. "This new space will help hundreds of families take the first step toward finding their permanent home. This shelter brings the total new beds provided by the City in 2024 to 380, marking significant progress toward our long-term goal of creating safe, accessible shelter for everyone in need in Phoenix."

"We are grateful for the support of the City of Phoenix and their commitment to addressing homelessness in our community," said Jackson Fonder, Chief Executive Officer at UMOM . "These new shelter beds will make a significant impact on the lives of families experiencing homelessness, not only by provid ing immediate relief but also serving as a critical support system, promoting healthier, more stable futures."

With the new shelter beds, the City of Phoenix and UMOM continue their shared commitment to addressing the pressing needs of families experiencing homelessness and fostering a community where all families have the opportunity to thrive.

Learn more about the City's efforts to address homelessness.

Learn more about UMOM .

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