Following recent media coverage, the Guam Homeless Coalition (GHC) recognizes an opportunity to enhance awareness of our mission and the work we do. This visibility can lead to stronger community partnerships and recognition of the Coalition's year-round efforts.
The GHC is not a government agency. It was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2011, with the mission to empower individuals and families who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness to achieve self-sufficiency, by providing support through awareness, education, and advocacy. We do not have a standalone office or dedicated staff. Our members—26 voting organizations, including 14 nonprofits, 10 Government of Guam agencies, two individuals with lived experience, and 10 "friends of the GHC"—volunteer their time to address the diverse needs of the homeless populations on the island. Together, we collaborate to organize several community initiatives throughout the year. These Coalition-led events are funded solely through community donations.
The most well-known event is the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, held on the last Friday of January. This count provides a snapshot of homelessness in jurisdictions across the United States. On Friday, January 31st, volunteers will go out from early morning until evening to engage with individuals experiencing homelessness, whether they are unsheltered, in shelters, or living in places not meant for habitation. To learn more or volunteer for a PIT Count village outreach team, please visit https://guamhomelesscoalition.org/2025-pit-count/ and register by January 10.
In conjunction with the PIT Count, the GHC distributes care bags to those interviewed. We are currently conducting a donation drive for hygiene products, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and other self-care items, to include in these care packages. Donations can be dropped off by Friday, January 24, at the Hagåtña Library, CAHA Office (DNA building, 2nd floor), or the OHAPP
Office (ITC building, 2nd floor), where curbside drop-off is available.
In the second quarter of each year, the GHC organizes the "Passport to Services" event, where unhoused individuals can access outreach services, eligibility assessments, job programs, physical evaluations, health screenings, vaccinations, haircuts, and more. Additionally, the GHC partners with the University of Guam School of Nursing to hold a Mini Medical Mission in the third quarter. In November, the last quarter, we observe Homelessness Awareness Month and hold our annual Housing and Homelessness Summit.
As homelessness remains a persistent challenge on Guam, the GHC remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for those affected. We will speak out against the inequitable treatment of the unhoused and vulnerable individuals who are marginalized by poverty and the criminalization of homelessness. The GHC continues to stand up for the rights and dignity of these individuals, working with the Government of Guam agencies, Mayors Council of Guam, community stakeholders and our membership to create solutions that address the root causes of homelessness and promote social equity.
To stay connected with the GHC throughout the year, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @guamhomelesscoalition or sign up for our quarterly newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/bb0bb0ef0afd/sign-up.