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Carmichael HART:
hen a person’s basic needs of food, shelter, and clothing aren’t met, it’s difficult to survive, much less thrive. So, the Carmichael Homeless Assistance Resource Team — or HART — exists to make sure our brothers and sisters experiencing homelessness can receive the support they need. Carmichael HART is a nonprofit supported by faith communities, other nonprofits, businesses, agencies, and individuals. The organization’s goal is simple — to support men, women, and children experiencing homelessness in Carmichael. The Carmichael HART is part of a network of HART groups throughout the Sacramento area. The nonprofit has been in Carmichael for about three years. Our Lady of the Assumption parishioner Juan Yniguez was part of the initial planning group to bring HART to Carmichael. Although this isn’t a ministry specific to Our Lady of the Assumption, Juan asks parishioners to join in supporting this work. “OLA is a very generous parish,” Juan says. “Parishioners always help those in need. This is a good call for us as a parish to ask ourselves, ‘Are we in a position to work on this specific effort?’”
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, one of HART’s primary ministries was offering winter overnight housing at churches throughout Carmichael in January and February. OLA volunteers helped with this effort by staffing the housing. This part of the ministry is on hiatus until the threat of the pandemic wanes. For 2022, HART will offer winter respite three days per week, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at area churches. This is a chance for individuals to eat, clean up, relax a bit and charge a phone. “When I got involved, I learned the need is so great in the Sacramento area,” Juan says. “Once I started attending HART meetings, I realized I needed to stay on top of this to support our brothers and sisters who are experiencing homelessness.” HART also operates the Charlotte House, a transitional house for women and their children. The house is staffed with case managers who help navigate the next steps like employment and permanent housing. A similar house for men will be opening soon. Financial support is needed to keep these programs in operation. In addition, HART coordinates a program to provide Saturday morning showers to those experiencing homelessness, as well as a street outreach food program.
The Carmichael Homeless Assistance Resource Team — or HART — exists to make sure our brothers and sisters experiencing homelessness can receive the support they need.
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