ANNEX

Annex Assistance Program
Supporting Homeless Individuals with Pets – An Underserved Community

1. Program Overview
The Annex Assistance Program addresses the unique challenges faced by homeless individuals with pets, a deeply underserved community. Many individuals experiencing homelessness are unwilling to enter shelters because most facilities prohibit pets. This results in families and individuals choosing to remain unsheltered rather than abandon their animal companions. The Annex Assistance Program seeks to break this cycle by providing essential services that allow both the individual and their pet to be supported.

This program prioritizes dignity, compassion, and self-sufficiency, filling a critical gap in services and ensuring that no one is forced to choose between shelter and their pet.

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2. Program Goals
Address the unique needs of homeless individuals who remain unsheltered to stay with their pets.

Provide essential services for both individuals and their pets, supporting health, safety, and stability.

Serve an underserved community, ensuring equity in access to services and resources.

Support long-term self-sufficiency by connecting participants to housing, employment, and healthcare resources.

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3. Program Components
3.1 Pet-Friendly Support for an Underserved Community
Objective: Provide services for homeless individuals who remain unsheltered due to pet restrictions in shelters.

Services:

Mailbox services for a stable mailing address.

Access to a dedicated phone line for communication.

Distribution of pet food, supplies, and hygiene kits.

Clothing and first aid essentials.

Referrals to additional community resources and support services.

Partnerships: Collaborate with animal welfare organizations, pet supply stores, and community providers.

Eligibility: Homeless individuals with a pet currently in their care.

3.2 Pet Care Essentials
Objective: Ensure the health and well-being of pets through essential supplies.

Services: Pet food, leashes, grooming tools, and access to mobile veterinary care for check-ups and vaccinations.

Eligibility: Verified pet ownership and need through a referral process.

3.3 Hygiene, Clothing, and Resource Referrals
Objective: Improve overall well-being by providing basic hygiene and connecting individuals to needed services.

Services: Hygiene kits, clothing, first aid supplies, and referral information for housing, employment, and healthcare.

Partnerships: Work with local clinics and organizations for screenings and support.

3.4 Long-Term Resource Connections
Objective: Support stability and independence for both individuals and their pets.

Services: Case management, job training, housing referrals, and support accessing government benefits.

Eligibility: Commitment to case management and engagement with services.

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4. Eligibility Requirements
Verification of Homelessness: Must be a homeless individual verified through One Roof or another agency.

Pet Ownership: Must have a pet in their care and demonstrate a need for services.

Commitment: Willingness to participate in case management and utilize available resources.

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5. How to Apply
Connect with One Roof or a similar provider: Verification of homelessness is required.

Referral Process: Submit a verified referral to the Annex Assistance Program.

Program Enrollment: Complete intake documentation and begin receiving services.

6. Funding and Partnerships
Target Donors: Local businesses, corporations, and individuals for financial and in-kind donations.

Partnerships:

One Roof for referrals and verification.

Pet stores (e.g., Petco, Target) for supplies.

Local veterinary clinics for discounted or free care.

Community shelters and housing providers for referrals and transitional support.

7. Volunteer Opportunities
Outreach Volunteers: Engage with individuals hesitant to access traditional shelters due to pets.

Pet Supply Coordinators: Oversee distribution of pet food, supplies, and hygiene kits.

Resource Navigators: Assist with case management, housing, and employment connections.

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8. Program Impact
Serving an Underserved Community: Bridges the service gap for homeless individuals with pets.

Preventing Pet Surrender: Helps individuals avoid abandoning their pets in exchange for shelter.

Enhancing Stability: Supports both individuals and pets in maintaining dignity and moving toward long-term stability.

Strengthening Communities: Contributes to a healthier, more inclusive community by addressing the needs of an underserved group.