Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida: Over 30 Years of Restoring Hope and Rebuilding Lives

At Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, our mission is to transform the lives of men, women, and children who are experiencing homelessness by providing the critical services they need to move from crisis to stability—and ultimately to independence.

Founded in 1987 by a group of compassionate and concerned citizens, the Coalition was created in response to the rising number of individuals and families facing homelessness in the Orlando and Central Florida region. What began as a community-driven effort has evolved into one of the largest and most comprehensive providers of homeless services in Central Florida.

A Housing-First Approach to Ending Homelessness
Our organization operates as a short-term residential shelter with a strong emphasis on housing-first principles, emergency services, and diversion strategies. We prioritize quickly moving people out of homelessness and into safe, stable, and permanent housing, while also addressing the root causes that led to their crisis—whether it’s job loss, domestic violence, mental health challenges, or systemic poverty.

Each day, we serve over 500 men, women, and children through our residential programs, offering them a secure place to stay, three nutritious meals a day, access to clean clothing, personal hygiene products, and supportive services like case management, employment assistance, and mental health counseling. Additionally, we reach more than 100 unsheltered individuals daily through our street outreach and community-based initiatives, providing food, supplies, and a connection to life-saving services.

Transforming Lives with Compassion, Dignity, and Community Support
At the Coalition, we believe that homelessness is a crisis that can be solved with compassion, strategic intervention, and strong community partnerships. For over three decades, we have continuously adapted to meet the changing needs—and the changing faces—of homelessness in our region. From single adults to working families, from veterans to survivors of domestic abuse, the individuals we serve come from all walks of life but share a common need: the opportunity to reclaim their lives and rebuild with dignity.

Thanks to the generous support of donors, volunteers, and local partners, we’ve been able to expand our impact and improve outcomes year after year. Our collaborative, person-centered model has helped thousands of individuals transition from homelessness into housing, employment, and long-term self-sufficiency.

Be Part of the Solution
Whether you’re looking to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more about homelessness in Central Florida, the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida invites you to join us in being part of the solution. Together, we can create a future where every person in our community has a place to call home—and the tools to build a better life.