What do bees and homelessness have to do with one another? Well, in the normal course of things, not much!
But for Union Station Homeless Services they meant an opportunity to share with the world the work and success of our organization – and even more importantly, to call on everyone to “Be(e) the Solution” to homelessness.
Union Station was asked if we would like to have a float in this year’s Rose Parade after a corporation stepped out, leaving their float without an owner. As an organization born and bred in Pasadena, and which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, we felt it was an offer we couldn’t refuse.
Thanks to all of our staff, clients, and volunteers who were involved in making the “Bee the Solution” float – our first ever entry in the parade – a reality.
Because homelessness is such a major crisis, many people in our communities don’t really believe that there is a solution. At Union Station, we know there is a solution – and one that we have used to permanently house thousands of people in the past few years, and 97% of the people we house stay housed. But we haven’t been able to do it alone – it has taken a community and that is why we are asking everyone to be part of that solution.
First, what is the solution? What is it that ends homelessness for individuals and families? The answer is remarkably simple – homes end homelessness. Not only does housing end people’s homelessness, having a safe home of one’s own is the foundation for health, stability, and the opportunity to be part of their community.
While everyone needs that foundation, we know that for some they need extra support to stay housed and to thrive. This is where comprehensive, wrap-around services come in. At Union Station, we provide those services, whether it be education and job training, physical or mental health support or life skills.
How can you Be(e) the Solution to homelessness?
Support organizations like Union Station Homeless…
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