Why We Need Safe Outdoor Spaces

Our unhoused neighbors need to live somewhere while they work to secure permanent housing. Safe Outdoor Spaces (SOS) meet our unhoused community’s needs in a way that many emergency shelters cannot.

  • Would you want to be separated from your partner or pet during one of the most traumatic and stressful times in your life?

  • Could you work on improving your mental health while trying to secure housing if you had nowhere to store your belongings during the day?

  • Would you be able to interview for jobs or apartments if you had nowhere to shower or do laundry?

These are the challenges people experiencing homelessness face. SOS sites offer the stability, security, and supportive services people need to take care of their mental and physical health so they can work on long-term housing solutions.

Why do we need Safe Outdoor Spaces?

Safe Outdoor Spaces (SOS) exist to protect the most vulnerable in our community. There are many reasons people experiencing homelessness don't seek Emergency Shelter:

  • Separation from partner or pets

  • Fear of violence or theft

  • Conflict with hours of operation

  • Lack of privacy and autonomy

  • Bedbugs/other health concerns

  • Doesn't meet their needs

What are Safe Outdoor Spaces?

Safe Outdoor Spaces were created to remove the barriers of traditional Emergency Shelters by providing an alternative that meets people's needs. They allow for:

  • Couples to remain together

  • Pets/emotional support animals

  • Non-congregate living

  • Stability and safety

  • 24-hour staff support

  • Case management services

  • Daily wellness screenings

  • Culturally inclusive care

SOS sites support the basic needs of our unhoused neighbors by providing:

  • Bathrooms, hand sinks, showers

  • Regular meals

  • Drinking water

  • Laundry facilities

  • Security

  • Sense of community

  • Electricity

  • Internet

Access to these services is not only humane but improves the public health of our entire community.

Culturally Inclusive Care

Culturally inclusive care is necessary for the success of Black, Indigenous, People of Color who are disproportionately impacted by homelessness. This means:

  • Access to traditional ceremonies

  • Culturally competent programs

  • Healthy food & holistic medicines

We know this model is not only more humane, but it also gets people housed. 1 in 4 people was connected to housing through the Native-inclusive SOS site.

Be Part of the Change

SOS sites need your support. Constantly moving a tent is traumatic and disorienting. It makes it exceptionally difficult for outreach workers to connect people to permanent housing, and it keeps people unhoused longer.

Educate others on the importance of creating culturally appropriate spaces in your community that meet the needs of our unhoused neighbors. Say "YES" when a nonprofit or government agency makes plans to establish an SOS in your community. Share this article with others in your network who may be skeptical of this person-centered and proven solution for people experiencing homelessness.

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