Homelessness is the lack of a stable, safe, and adequate place to live. This can include living in emergency shelters, transitional housing, cars, motels, or in places not meant for human habitation like streets or abandoned buildings.

Homelessness can be temporary, episodic, or long-term depending on individual circumstances.

Chronic homelessness refers to individuals or families who have experienced homelessness for at least 12 consecutive months or have had four or more episodes of homelessness in the past three years, totaling 12 months — while living with a disabling condition such as a serious mental illness, substance use disorder, or physical disability.

Homelessness can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Lack of affordable housing

• Job loss or underemployment

• Mental health challenges

• Substance use disorder

• Family conflict or domestic violence

• Unexpected medical expenses

We believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, known, and valued — and that starts with how we speak about one another. We use the word "neighbor" because it reminds us that every person experiencing homelessness is part of our community, not separate from it.

Calling someone a neighbor breaks down barriers, fosters compassion, and challenges the idea of "us vs. them." It reflects our core belief that we all belong to each other — and when one neighbor is hurting, the whole community is impacted.on

At Salt + Light, we believe in using people-first language because no one’s identity should be defined by their circumstances. Saying "someone experiencing homelessness" reminds us that homelessness is a temporary situation — not who someone is. Every person has inherent worth, dignity, and the potential to thrive when given the right support.

This language reflects our mission to restore hope, dignity, and belonging — seeing each of our neighbors for who they truly are, not just what they’re going through.

Salt + Light is working to transform the lives of our Central California neighbors at risk of or experiencing homelessness by addressing more than just housing — we're restoring community and belonging.

Our approach is rooted in the belief that every person deserves to be seen, known, and valued. We offer:

• Dignified housing through The Neighborhood Village, providing a safe place for neighbors to heal and rebuild stability

• Essential case management services to help neighbors set personalized goals and access resources for long-term success

• Purposeful work opportunities that empower neighbors to use their gifts, rebuild confidence, and create a path toward independence

• Outreach programs that extend radical hospitality to neighbors still experiencing homelessness — meeting immediate needs while inviting them into community

We know that healing happens through relationship — and every program we offer is designed to remind neighbors that they are not alone.

The lack of affordable housing is consistently the leading cause of homelessness across the country.

At Salt + Light, we believe the most effective way to end homelessness is by restoring both housing and community. While traditional models often focus solely on providing shelter, our approach goes deeper — meeting immediate needs while addressing the relational, emotional, and spiritual wounds that often come with homelessness.

You can help by:

• Treating people with dignity and respect

• Donating to or volunteering with local organizations

• Advocating for affordable housing policies

• Supporting organizations like Salt + Light