How to Help

From volunteering, to advocacy, to donations, there are many ways that you can help make a difference in the lives of people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. There are many nonprofit organizations in Longview that provide services and would appreciate volunteers and donations. You can also get involved in some of the community-wide collaborative efforts taking place as a result of the Mayor's Task Force on Homelessness. 

Take a look at some of the ideas listed below. If you don't see one that interests you, please contact us to see if we can find a great way for you and your group to be involved.

Donations:


  • Give directly to a local organization that helps the homeless in Longview. These organizations depend on donations to implement their programs. Your donation could help change lives. To learn more, see our list of local organizations that provide resources. The INFOline of Gregg County also maintains an even more extensive list of service organizations in the Longview area; contact INFOline at 903-236-9211. 
  • Give to the Mayor’s Go-Giver Fund. Donations will be utilized to implement the recommendations of the Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness. Donations can be sent to City of Longview, Go-Giver Fund, PO Box 1952, Longview, TX 75606.
  • Donate items for “Homeless Outreach Bags.” These are a great alternative to giving money directly to a homeless individual. The Longview Public Library will be a collection site for Homeless Outreach Bag items from Monday, Dec. 23, 2021, to Monday, Jan. 24, 2022 prior to the Homeless Resource Day scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022.

Volunteer:

  • Volunteer directly with a local homeless service organization. You or your group can help cook meals, help teach life skills classes, or even provide direct professional or medical services.
  • Volunteer your services during a Homeless Resources Day. Contact Community Services at 903-237-1392 to get involved.

Advocate:

  • Encourage people to avoid giving money directly to panhandlers. Instead, connect individuals to available resources in the community that provide food, shelter, counseling, and other services.
  • Encourage others to get involved with efforts to assist the homeless.
  • Encourage businesses to utilize the homeless work program as a method for getting involved.