Public Program Summary-The Many Faces of Homelessness-3-22-2025
On March 22 at the Murphy-Wilmot Library, the Public Programs Committee presented
“The Many Faces of Homelessness.” Panelists included Jean Fedigan, founder, Sister
Jose Women’s Center, and Bethany Neumann, Director of Development and
Communications at Youth on Their Own (YOTO).
Both speakers expressed concerns about a possible decline in contributions to their
non-profits should there be an economic downturn. Neither of the non-profits receive
funding from the federal government. Both speakers stated that it is volunteers that
make a difference in the services they provide.
At Sister Jose, Jean explained that 70 percent of all funding is from individual gifts. For,
YOTO, 86 percent of funding is from individual contributions, according to Bethany.
Below is a synopsis of the presentations:
Sister Jose serves women who are unhoused. Thirty-five percent of overnight guests
are over the age of 55; and approximately 57 percent of guests have no income. About
70 percent have mental illness. The Center provides both day and overnight programs,
caring for approximately 120-150 women per day. The Center has 54 beds for overnight
guests. Jean told us, “We served 30,000 meals last year. These women live day-to-day,
and for those who receive Social Security, a $941 a month check won’t cover their
expenses like medications, doctor visits, and rent.” The Center provides meals, clothing,
showers, and safe spaces for women. They are located on 1028 S. Park Avenue in
Tucson. If you would like to donate items to the Center, please visit the website
www.sisterjose.org to determine their current needs.
Youth on Their Own supports high school graduation and continued success of youth
experiencing homelessness. The Center was founded in 1986 and aids young people
without parents; some live with relatives, others live day-to-day with friends or in their
vehicles. Students receive a stipend: $350 a month for those without permanent
residences; and $100 a month for those living with family or who have a more stable
home. “Our objective is to ensure these students graduate high school and not become
homeless,” Bethany explained. “Our graduation rate for YOTO seniors was 93 percent
last year, whereas in Pima County it was 71 percent. We’re seeing remarkable results.”
YOTO assists students in 100 Middle and High Schools in Pima County. “We need more
community support as there are few if any shelters for youth.” The Center is located at
2525 N. Country Club Road in Tucson. Their website is www.YOTO.org.