The Homeless Empowerment Program (HEP) has been awarded a $40,000 grant from the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) through its Vivian’s Outreach to Women (VOW) Grant—an honor made possible through the support and nomination of the local Clearwater DAR chapter.
Local members of the DAR Clearwater chapters played a key role in identifying HEP’s impact in the community and advancing its application to the national level, helping secure critical funding to support female Veterans experiencing homelessness. The grant will directly support HEP’s emergency shelter program, providing 1,053 bed nights and comprehensive support services for female Veterans. Through housing, case management, and access to on-site resources, HEP helps women Veterans build stability and transition to independent living. It is the organization’s goal to break the cycle of homelessness for the individuals, families, and Veterans it serves.
“Female Veterans often face unique challenges that can go unseen. This recognition helps shine a light on the need for programs that are designed specifically to support them,” said Ashley Lowery, HEP President & CEO. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Clearwater chapter of the DAR for their support in bringing this opportunity forward, as well as to the National Society DAR for this outstanding recognition. This funding allows us to expand our efforts and ensure that female Veterans have access to safe housing and the resources they need on their path to stability.”
The $40,000 award was formally presented to HEP President & CEO Ashley Lowery and HEP Founder Barb Green during the DAR’s “America 250!” Celebration in Washington, D.C. on April 18. The national event, which honored the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, included a series of high-profile celebrations and a special performance by Patti LaBelle.
HEP will host a private dedication ceremony for the female Veteran dorms on Wednesday, May 6.
About Homeless Empowerment Program (HEP):
Founded in 1986, HEP is the most comprehensive social service agency in the Tampa Bay area. HEP offers an integrated solution to the issue of homelessness by providing low-income families and individuals, including Veterans, with housing, food, clothing and support services necessary to obtain self-sufficiency and an improved quality of life. As part of its mission, HEP operates a 353-bed facility, offering emergency, transitional, permanent, and permanent supportive housing to temporarily homeless and mentally disabled individuals, families with children, and Veterans. Through housing and critical support services, HEP empowers its residents and helps to break the cycle of homelessness. For more information, please visit www.HEPempowers.org.