Novato Human Needs Center

Novato Human Needs Center assists low-income residents to overcome their immediate crises and develop the skills for long term self-sufficiency. Through our philosophy of "Neighbor Helping Neighbor", we link volunteers who want to help with people who are struggling to make ends meet. We provide services in the spirit of dignity and respect.

Description:
We provide a full range of supportive services for individuals and families. We provide emergency support including food, clothing, household goods, and small grants or loans. We prevent homelessness through our housing assistance fund. We provide employment readiness and job placement services. "Families Reaching Economic Empowerment" provides intensive support to assist families overcome barriers to self-sufficiency and build their earning capacity. "Amigos de la Familia" provides in-home parenting support for families under stress. Our two vans provide handicapped-accessible transportation for seniors and disabled adults. We provide educational serivces including English as a Second Language classes, voter education, civic engagement, and legal clinics. Holiday Share provides food and toys for more than 500 families at the holidays. Our Second Center Thrift Shop provides free goods to clients in need, while sales to the public support our programs.

History:
Novato Human Needs Center was founded in 1972 as a grassroots effort by several residents who wanted to help their neighbors in need. We have grown and changed with the changing needs of the community, but still operate with the philosophy of "Neighbor Helping Neighbor". The Center now assists more than 3,500 residents per year, through the efforts of 19 staff and more than 200 volunteers per year.

Contact people:

Dina Gardner, (phone), (email) Narda Zambrana, (phone), (email) Radz Zalewski, Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email)

Main office number: (415) 897-4147
Office fax number: (415) 897-7171

Address:

1907 Novato Boulevard Novato, CA 94947 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.nhnc.org

Last updated on April 13, 2010