How Domestic Violence Leads To Women on the Streets

domestic violence and homelessness

Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness among women. Here’s what most people don’t see and how you can help.

When you think of a homeless person, what image comes to mind?

If you’re like I was, you probably picture a man on a street corner. Maybe he’s holding a sign, asking for money, or he’s yelling at no one in particular.

But that image doesn’t tell the whole story.  I learned that with the very first interaction I had volunteering at the Homeless ID Project at the Keys To Change Campus in downtown Phoenix.

A Birth Certificate and a Chance to Start Over

My first task was simple:  Take a birth certificate to the main area and deliver it to the appropriate person. 

So I walked out there and called out the name “Robin” expecting a man to answer.

Instead, a woman raised her hand with visible excitement. I unclipped her birth certificate from my clipboard and walked toward her and I didn’t expect what came next…

She started to cry.

I was taken aback by this as all I was doing was handing over a simple government document.  

Robin shared her story with me, how she was the victim of repeated domestic abuse, and how she had to rush out in the middle of the night. No purse. No cash. No documents. No ID.

When she tries to find a shelter, access public benefits, or get money out of her bank account, she’s told:

You need an ID.”

how to help homeless women

Robin was from California and had never updated to an Arizona Drivers’ License. In Arizona, to get your first ID, you need a birth certificate.  That single piece of paper became a barrier to safety, housing, employment, and other essential services. 

Without it, Robin was out on the street. 

In fact, Robin had been on the streets for over 6 weeks. And now, her abuser had found out where she was.  It was Friday and she was leaving town that afternoon.  If her birth certificate hadn’t come in, she’d be on the streets for another 6-8 weeks.

Now, with a birth certificate in hand, she could move to her new destination, get an ID, pull money out of her bank account and start to rebuild her life.

Domestic Violence and Homelessness: The Hidden Connection

Robin’s situation is far from rare. National studies show that over 90% of women experiencing homelessness have previously endured domestic violence.

nonprofits helping the homeless

Let that sink in.

These are not people who are lazy. They’re not criminals. Robin didn’t choose to be out on the streets. She chose to survive and the price of survival was homelessness.

Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for women and children. When survivors make the difficult, and often dangerous, decision to leave their abuser, they frequently do so without financial resources, family support, or even basic documentation.

After talking to Robin, I looked around the lobby and was surprised to see that about 1 out of 3 people there were women. I hadn’t noticed that when I first walked into the waiting area.

What Does Homelessness Really Look Like?

Homelessness isn’t what we think. It’s not the simple stereotype.  It doesn’t always look like tents under an overpass. Sometimes, it looks like the Mom with the small child standing next to you in line at the grocery store. Or the child in your kid’s classroom who hasn’t had a stable place to sleep in weeks.

Changing the perception of homelessness means recognizing its complexity. It means understanding that for many women, homelessness is a byproduct of trauma, not personal failure.

homelessness and women

As a first time volunteer, I became a big believer in what the Homeless ID Project was all about and the impact that our incredible staff, kind people like Sarah, Yulonda, Jon, and Angelica, make to help those rebuild their lives.  These are the unsung heroes making sure every document gets where it needs to go. I had the easy job – I simply delivered the results of their hard work.  

But there’s a tremendous amount of effort that goes on behind the scenes to change lives.  

After that interaction, I made the decision to become a consistent volunteer at the Homeless ID Project. In addition, I made a sizable donation to help out.  In January of 2025, I proudly became a member of  the Board because I’m very honored to contribute to helping the Homeless ID Project rebuild the lives of victims like Robin.

Over the course of 2024, the Homeless ID Project helped 3,068 women rebuild their lives with a birth certificate and/or ID.  We have a dedicated staff of four people and volunteers that help make the place run. But we’re not publicly funded. The IDs and Birth Certificates aren’t free.  They’re not even discounted.

Many nonprofits perform wonderful work on housing and job programs, but the Homeless ID Project focuses on the one thing often overlooked: providing identification for homeless individuals, especially women impacted by domestic violence.

It costs just $32 to provide a woman fleeing domestic violence with the ID and birth certificate she needs to reclaim her life.  Whether you give once or join our monthly supporters, your donation goes directly to removing life-altering barriers.

If you believe that safety, dignity, and second chances shouldn’t depend on a piece of paper, we invite you to be part of the solution by making a donation here: 

a green background with the words $32=1 ID + 1 Birth certificate = a fresh start and a red button that says donate with a black arrow

Let’s stop asking, “Why don’t they just get a job?”
Let’s start asking, “What do they need to start over?”

Because sometimes, the answer is simple: They need an ID. 

Living with Uncertainty – Community Support is More Important Than Ever

Whatever your thoughts on the current political landscape, the economy is littered with upset apple carts and rocking boats. The stock market is down, no it’s up, no it’s down. Prices are rising, causing consumers to hold up on routine purchases. Funding for social service agencies has been cut and more cuts are threatened. Markets hate uncertainty.

Homeless ID Project does not depend on federal funding so one might think we’re in the clear, but agencies that do rely on federal funding are now looking for funding in places where smaller nonprofits have traditionally been funded. Trickle-down 2025 style.

“Homeless ID Project doesn’t rely on federal funding—but when larger agencies start looking for dollars in smaller spaces, the urgency to act becomes real.”

The net of this is that Homeless ID Project is facing a funding challenge, triggering a sense of urgency in our fundraising efforts. The good news is that the State of Arizona allows its citizens to decide how their some of their state tax dollars are distributed, through the State Tax Credit program. 

If you’re reading this newsletter you are most likely aware of the tax credit program because you have probably used it – for schools, foster care agencies and charitable organizations like Homeless ID Project. You can use ALL of them. You know this, but your neighbors do not.

It may surprise you to learn that only 5% of eligible Arizona tax payers use the state’s Charitable Tax Credit Program. If we could increase that number by 1 percent, from 5% to 6%, an additional $17 million would be available to help our neighbors in need.Homeless ID Project needs 2,000 individuals tax credit donations to fund our 2025 revenue plan. That seems like a modest goal in a state with 7.5 million citizens. Tax season just ended, but consider setting up a monthly donation of $40 (individual) or $80 (joint filers) and be ready when tax time rolls around again. Ask your neighbors to do the same! We need your help.

Your support is more important than ever. Make a difference here with a tax credit donation!

Author: Rick Mitchell serves as Executive Director of Homeless ID Project. He leads with a firm belief that ending homelessness starts with access to identification—and that collaboration is the key to lasting solutions. Rick works tirelessly to build partnerships that help individuals overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency. His leadership has expanded the organization’s reach and impact across Arizona.

text reading little known facts about homelessness

Little Known Facts About Homelessness & How You Can Help

Homelessness is often misunderstood, and many people are unaware of the realities faced by those experiencing it. At Homeless ID Project, we work every day to remove barriers that keep individuals and families from rebuilding their lives. Our tagline, “Help Starts Here,” reflects the vital role identification documents play in breaking the cycle of homelessness. Which homelessness facts do you think will surprise people the most?

1. About Half of All Homeless People in Arizona Are Families with Children

When people think of homelessness, they often picture single adults living on the streets. However, just about 50% of the homeless population in Arizona are families with children. These families face immense challenges, from finding safe shelter to enrolling children in school—both of which require identification documents. Without an ID, getting into stable housing or securing employment becomes nearly impossible.

2. Most People Who Experience Homelessness Will Find Stability Within a Year

One of the most misunderstood homelessness facts is the belief that it is a permanent condition. In reality, 75% of people who are homeless today will no longer be homeless in a year. Many face short-term crises—job loss, medical emergencies, or domestic violence—that temporarily force them onto the streets. The right support at the right time can help them regain stability quickly.

3. Only 15% of People Experiencing Homelessness Are Chronically Homeless

While chronic homelessness is a serious issue, only about 15% of people experiencing homelessness fall into this category. A person is considered chronically homeless if they have been homeless for one year or more or have experienced multiple episodes of homelessness over three years. For many, challenges such as mental illness, substance abuse, or disabilities make breaking free from homelessness much more difficult. However, for the majority, homelessness is a temporary situation that can be resolved with access to vital resources—starting with an ID.

a man and a woman wearing headsets at desks and text that reads "Lack of ID=0 Job Opportunities. Give someone the gift of employment opportunities by donating just $12!

An Ounce of Prevention…

The saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” couldn’t be more relevant to homelessness. The cost of preventing homelessness—by providing an ID, helping someone secure a job, or assisting with rent—is far lower than the cost of long-term homelessness. Prevention efforts are crucial in reducing the number of people who experience homelessness in the first place.

How You Can Help

Understanding these facts is just the first step. You can take action today by getting involved with Homeless ID Project. One of the best ways to start is by taking a tour of the Key Campus in downtown Phoenix. Seeing our work firsthand will help you understand the challenges our clients face and how simple solutions—like an ID—can change lives.

Help Starts Here

At Homeless ID Project, we believe that a single document can be the key to stability, dignity, and a brighter future. With your support, we can continue helping thousands of individuals and families take their first steps toward independence.

Ready to make a difference? Schedule a tour, donate, or volunteer today!

How a New ID Can Transform Lives: 69% of Clients Use Their ID to Get a Job

Imagine trying to apply for a job without an ID. It’s impossible. For individuals experiencing homelessness, this is a daily reality—a barrier that stands between them and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

At Homeless ID Project, we’re on a mission to change that. 69% of our clients come to us for a new ID so they can start a job and take the first critical step toward ending their homelessness.

Why IDs Matter

An ID is more than just a document—it’s a gateway to opportunity. Without an ID, individuals cannot:

  • Apply for a job or start employment.
  • Rent or lease housing.
  • Open a bank account or cash a paycheck.
  • Access medical care or other essential services.

For many, a replacement ID is the cornerstone of stability. It’s the key to breaking free from the cycle of homelessness and moving toward self-sufficiency.

FAQ about the Az Charitable Tax Credit

The Impact of Your Support

Here’s how you can make a difference:

For just $32 a month, you can provide someone with a new ID—a life-changing document that allows them to:

  • Secure meaningful employment.
  • Begin the process of finding stable housing.
  • Access vital resources like healthcare and education.
  • Reconnect with their community and rebuild their confidence.

Your monthly gift empowers individuals to move forward with dignity and hope.

The Need Is Growing

The demand for our services has never been greater. Each year, thousands of Arizonans face homelessness, and the lack of an ID remains one of the biggest obstacles to overcoming it. Your support helps us meet this urgent need, ensuring that every person has the tools they need to build a brighter future.

“I have to keep going. Utilizing my resources is the only way to get me out of this life and I’m so grateful to Homeless ID Project and all the others here that work together to help us get jobs and beds.”
Miata, Homeless ID Project client (2024)

Maximize Your Impact

There’s never been a better time to give. With the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit, you can donate up to $470 as an individual or $938 as a couple and get every dollar back on your state taxes. Your generosity costs you nothing while transforming lives.

Join Us in Ending Homelessness

Together, we can empower individuals to take that critical first step. Every ID we provide is a chance for someone to rebuild their life and end their homelessness.

👉 Ready to help? Donate today and start changing lives for just $32 a month. Your support creates new beginnings, one ID at a time.

Take a look!

November is Homeless Awareness Month: Empower Change with a Simple Donation

November is Homeless Awareness Month—a time to reflect on the challenges faced by those without stable housing and to consider how each of us can make a meaningful difference. Homelessness is a complex issue, rooted in a range of factors including job loss, mental health struggles, family conflicts, and lack of affordable housing. Every individual facing homelessness has their own unique story, but many share one common barrier: the lack of a valid ID.

An ID is often taken for granted, yet it’s essential for accessing nearly every service that helps someone regain stability. From securing housing and employment to enrolling in educational programs and receiving healthcare, an ID is the foundation for rebuilding one’s life. Unfortunately, for those experiencing homelessness, acquiring an ID can be a challenging and costly process. That’s where the Homeless ID Project steps in.

How is Homeless ID Project Making a Difference?

At the Homeless ID Project, we’re dedicated to removing this barrier by providing free identification services to those in need. Our mission is simple yet transformative: we give individuals the first tool they need to take back control of their lives. With just $12, you can cover the cost of an ID for someone struggling to regain stability. This small donation becomes a powerful act, empowering individuals to open doors they thought were closed to them.

Why is an ID so critical? Without identification, a person is often unable to access shelters, food assistance programs, or government services that could help them get back on their feet. An ID is also a requirement for opening a bank account, renting an apartment, or getting hired for a job. Imagine trying to overcome the challenges of homelessness without any documentation—no way to prove who you are, where you’ve come from, or even that you exist in the eyes of the system. By providing an ID, you’re giving someone a chance to build a new future.

You Can Make a Difference, Too

This November, we’re asking our community to join us in making a difference. For just $12, you can provide an ID for someone in need. Every donation, big or small, has a tangible impact and helps move us closer to a community where everyone has the opportunity to achieve self-sufficiency. Your donation goes directly to covering the cost of IDs and the administrative support needed to guide clients through the process. Each ID we provide is a step toward self-reliance, security, and hope.

As we observe Homeless Awareness Month, take a moment to consider how a small contribution can change someone’s life. Together, we can help hundreds of individuals move closer to independence and stability. By donating today, you’re not only giving someone an ID—you’re offering them a pathway to dignity, opportunity, and a fresh start.

Donate to make a difference. For the cost of a couple of cups of coffee, you can help empower someone to take their first step toward a brighter future. Let’s come together this November to support those in need and create lasting change in our community.

How Can YOU Help The Homeless ID Project

At Homeless ID Project, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity for stability, and it all starts with an ID. Often overlooked, an ID can be the key to unlocking critical resources like housing, employment, healthcare, and more. Can you help? You sure can! Here are some meaningful ways you can support our mission and make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.

Donate: Small Amounts, Big Impact

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. Just $12 can cover the cost of an ID for someone striving to regain stability. When you contribute, you’re funding a vital first step toward independence for those who need it most. Your donation provides a tangible resource that can transform lives.

Volunteer: Give Your Time

Our volunteers play a crucial role in making our program accessible and welcoming. By dedicating your time, you help provide a calm and supportive environment where clients feel safe as they take steps toward change. Volunteers can assist with greeting clients, organizing materials, and helping people navigate the process of securing an ID. Your presence alone can make a lasting impact. Apply to talk about volunteering with us today.

Take a Tour: See the Impact in Person

Curious about how Homeless ID Project operates? Can you help, too? Schedule a tour of our campus to witness the positive change happening firsthand. This guided experience allows you to see the work we do daily and how an ID can change a life. It’s also a great way to understand where your support goes and how it reaches those who need it. Click here to schedule your tour today!

Spread the Word: Raise Awareness

Simply spreading the word can make a big difference! Share our social media posts, tell a friend about our mission, or discuss the impact of IDs in addressing homelessness. The more awareness we build, the more we can create a community that supports and uplifts people working to end their own homelessness. Your voice matters—let’s amplify it for a cause that transforms lives.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the know and share our updates with your network!

Together, One ID at a Time

At Homeless ID Project, we know that every small effort contributes to big changes. With your support—whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy—we can continue empowering individuals to rebuild their lives, one ID at a time. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!

Help Us Empower Lives with IDs

The Importance of IDs for the Homeless

Imagine being unable to secure a job, rent a home, or receive medical care—all because you lack an ID. This is a harsh reality for many people experiencing homelessness. Without an ID, essential services and opportunities remain out of reach, trapping individuals in a cycle of poverty and instability. An ID is more than just a piece of plastic; it is a lifeline, a first crucial step towards reclaiming one’s life and working towards ending homelessness.

How Homeless ID Project Makes a Difference

At Homeless ID Project, we are dedicated to helping those in need obtain the identification they require to access basic services and opportunities. Your support can make a real, tangible difference in the lives of these individuals. By donating to our cause, you are helping provide the essential documentation needed for housing, healthcare, and employment. The impact of your generosity is profound: 70% of our clients use the documents they receive to secure housing, 67% use them to gain employment, and more than 40% use them to obtain medical care.

The Impact of Your Donation

Every donation brings us closer to our goal of empowering lives and ending homelessness. Your contribution can help open doors for someone who has been shut out for too long. By giving them the tools they need to rebuild their lives, you give them hope and a chance for a brighter future.

How You Can Help

Click here to help us today. Together, we can open doors and empower lives, one ID at a time. Your support matters more than ever. Thank you for making a difference. 💪🌟

Of course, there are always other ways to help. We would love to show you around and see if our office might make a good volunteer experience for you. Sign up to take a tour today and learn more here!