HELP THE HOMELESS

DID YOU KNOW THAT:

Homelessness affects more Long Islanders than you might think - and most of them don't look like the stereotypical "homeless person". Many live in family emergency shelters, motels, or in the homes of friends and family. Only 3% of Long Island's homeless live outdoors or in a car.

Of the 3,920 Long Islanders who are homeless on any given night, 34% are children. Veterans, senior citizens, and survivors of domestic abuse also find themselves temporarily homeless.

33% of homeless adults on Long Island suffer from chronic health issues such as disability or HIV/AIDS that impact their ability to work. 48% suffer from some form of Mental Health issue.

To Learn More About Homelessness in New York, please see the following resource:

Point in Time Homeless Count Report by the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless. 2024.

Accessible at: https://www.lihomeless.org/pitcount

Homeless Shelters and Homelessness in New York State by the New York State Office of the State Comptroller. 2016.

Accessible at: https://www.osc.state.ny.us/audits/allaudits/093016/16d3.pdf

Be Cautious:

Many people have compassion towards those struggling with homelessness and want to help in any way they can. But because some homeless people suffer from addictions or mental health problems, you should be cautious when engaging with them. Overall, it is best for you to contact an organization like Lighthouse Mission, the Department of Social Services, or your local Police Department that knows how best to help.

CALL EXPERTS:

Lighthouse Mission:

(631) 758-7584

Department of Social Services:
(631) 854-9930

Teen Challenge

(631) 321-7070

Pax Christi Hospitality Center

(631) 928-9108

How You Can Help:

Make a "Mission Kit" to keep in your car
Donate Food to Lighthouse Mission
Donate Clothing (new or gently used)
Become a Financial Partner to the Mission

DONATE

What NOT to Do:

DO NOT go into the woods or to “homeless camps”

These areas are unsafe due to their lack of visibility from the road and frequently have needles, broken glass, and other hazards on the ground. If you learn about one of these areas, contact Lighthouse Mission. Our Missionary Staff has been working with the homeless for many years and knows how to safely work with these communities.

DO NOT offer to give a homeless individual a ride in your car.

Personal boundaries for your safety are important. Because of the unknowns when dealing with the homeless, you should err on the side of caution. If someone asks you for a ride, call a taxi or Lighthouse Mission.

DO NOT bring a homeless individual into your home or give out your address on cold days

There are many Emergency Shelters with properly trained staff where the homeless can stay free-of-charge by contacting the Department of Social Services.

Please call the Department of Social Services Emergency Hotline at (631) 854-9930 for information on these services.

DO NOT give out money or gift cards

As some homeless individuals are battling addiction, it is best to not give out items that can be exchanged for drugs or alcohol. Food and bottled water are much better alternatives that meet an important need.

IN SHORT: Be Cautious!

Always exercise caution when engaging with the homeless. Remember that it is not wrong to prioritize your safety. Trained staff members at Lighthouse Mission and other community organizations know how to work with these populations.

Please call Lighthouse Mission at (631) 758-7584 or the Department of Social Services Emergency Hotline at (631) 854-9930.