Community

Thrive DC has been operating in Ward 1 for more than 15 years, focused on building relationships and deepening trust with our clients. As housing prices continue to soar across Washington, DC, we believe people should not be pushed out of communities where they have connection and support. People in Columbia Heights have come to rely on the consistency of a hot meal for breakfast and the fresh food distributed at our weekly food pantry. They know that, in the bitter cold of the winter, they can come to Thrive for a winter coat or launder their clothes as the summer heat rises.

Thrive DC: A Low-Barrier Organization Welcoming All Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

Every person deserves access to basic needs, such as food, shelter, and essential support, regardless of their circumstances. Thrive DC’s services extend to all individuals; documentation, background, or past experiences should not hinder anyone from seeking assistance and rebuilding their lives by creating a safe and non-judgmental space where they can access essential services.

We meet people where they are, in the community they live in.

Clients typically come to us first for basic emergency services, including hot meals, shower and laundry facilities, personal care items, and clothing. Our clients often experience mental illnesses, addiction, domestic violence, and trauma exacerbated by long term homelessness; a subset of our client population are individuals re-entering the community after a period of incarceration. As we get to know an individual, understand their background, and assess their needs, we can provide more robust, wrap-around services.

Based on our work we firmly assert that:

• Criticality of Proximity: Critical Services Near Individuals Experiencing Homelessness
  One of the key aspects of supporting homeless individuals in their communities is ensuring that emergency services are accessible and near where they stay. Thrive DC offers services within the community, so that individuals can easily access the help they need without facing additional challenges of transportation or navigating unfamiliar areas. Proximity to emergency services not only addresses immediate needs but also helps build trust and a sense of belonging within the community.
• Community-Based Solutions: Addressing a Nationwide Crisis
  As the world faces an emerging global homeless crisis, it becomes imperative to prioritize local, community-based solutions in our response. While systemic and macro-level interventions are essential, addressing homelessness starts with understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals in each community. Local organizations like Thrive DC, deeply rooted in the community, possess the insights and ability to tailor support to the specific needs of the individuals we serve. By empowering and supporting local organizations, we can create a network of community-focused solutions that collectively make a significant impact in alleviating homelessness and providing sustainable support to those in need.

Conclusion
Supporting homeless individuals in the community they reside in is not just a compassionate response, but a necessity for building a stronger, more inclusive society. Thrive DC remains dedicated to our low-barrier approach, welcoming all homeless individuals to access emergency services and assistance without judgment or discrimination in their community.