PRESIDENT'S LETTER:

In these challenging times HELP USA will be called upon to do more with less. The expectations and projections call for the number of homeless to increase over the next year. The increase will put a strain on our staff and programs. Historically when the economy falters the non-profit community is asked to take on even more responsibility. The government at the same time is forced to reduce budgets giving less money to these non-profits providing services.

Over the first half of this year HELP USA has made 1,247 placements. In 2008 we made 2,600 housing placements. Ten thousand men, women, and children were put back on the path to self-sufficiency and given a home. HELP USA stands committed to continuing to provide supportive services and transitional and permanent housing.

Challenging economic times coupled with cuts from the state and city to essential domestic violence services has created an environment where domestic violence can become more prevalent.  Although financial problems do not cause domestic violence - economic stress can exacerbate an already difficult situation. HELP USA remains dedicated to providing the services necessary to get victims of domestic violence back on the road to self-sufficiency.

Renaissance Apartments, housing for low-income workforce families, has recently opened in Las Vegas.  Newark Genesis Apartments, a combination of supportive housing for people with HIV/AIDS and affordable workforce housing, is expected to open in December of this year. There are a growing number of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans showing up in shelters. HELP USA has proposed a 63 unit supportive housing development for veterans in Southwest Philadelphia to address this need.

During these times donations from corporations and individuals are crucial to filling the void that government financing once filled. We value all of you who support HELP USA and thank you for helping us continue to provide services to those in need.