Healthy Giving Friendsgiving: Give The Smart Way This Holiday Season

This holiday season, join the City for Healthy Giving Friendsgiving, a smarter, community‑centered way to support neighbors experiencing homelessness. Rather than giving directly on the street, you can make a bigger impact by donating through trusted nonprofits working alongside the City’s Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) that connect individuals with shelter, services, meals, healthcare, and other resources.

“Phoenix is a community where people care deeply about helping one another, especially around the holidays," Mayor Kate Gallego said. "Friendsgiving turns that compassion into lasting action by connecting residents with community partners which provide critical services and support year-round."

The City’s Friendsgiving builds on the Healthy Giving initiative, which promotes safe, responsible ways to give back in the community, without creating negative impacts on neighborhoods, like blight or trash.

"Not all giving has the same impact,” said Rachel Milne, Office of Homeless Solutions Director. “Giving on the street may seem helpful, but when food doesn’t get eaten or items are left behind, it can have unintended consequences for the community. It also prevents people in need from getting connected to services to help end their homelessness. That's why, this year, we've reached out directly to local organizations and asked them exactly what they need so your generosity can make the greatest impact.”

The City partnered with nine local nonprofits that have shared the items they urgently need and the locations where they need the most help that you can volunteer at this holiday season. Partners include A New Leaf, Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS), The Salvation Army, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Andre House, St. Vincent de Paul, Keys to Change, UMOM, and Valley Dog Rescue. OHS also has volunteer and donation opportunities at the Safe Outdoor Space or the Turquoise Navigation Center shelter (formerly Phoenix Navigation Center).

Whether you donate supplies, volunteer your time, or support any local nonprofit, your generosity can make a real difference. Be part of the solution this holiday. Explore opportunities, nonprofit wish lists and other smart ways to give back at phoenix.gov/friendsgiving.