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Dear Friends and Supporters of AHHA, Happy New Year! We hope this new year finds you well. We stand united in hope and determination—working toward a community where everyone has a place to call home. Reflecting on the progress we made last year, we are inspired by the partnerships we’ve built and the resilience of our community. Together, we’ve taken meaningful steps toward creating sustainable, supportive, and affordable housing solutions, and we are optimistic about the strides ahead. Key StatisticsThe need for permanent, affordable housing is urgent. Consider these sobering facts: 48.3 years: Average age of death for unhoused individuals in Humboldt County (2023), 28.9 years below the county’s life expectancy of 77.2 years. 1,194 people: Currently unsheltered in Humboldt County, living in conditions “not fit for human habitation” (2024 Point-in-Time Count). 1.2%: Percentage of Humboldt County residents experiencing homelessness (2024 Point-in-Time Count).
Learn more about these statistics and their sources here. Our 2024 AccomplishmentsIn 2024, we worked alongside unhoused neighbors, grassroots organizations, and civic partners to achieve milestones that matter: Through the Mobile Showers Care-A-Van program we served 2,398 guest with basic information referral and services for personal hygiene care. Co-sponsored Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, honoring the lives of those lost while experiencing homelessness. Attended all the THV Ordinance workshops and planning meetings advocating for and advancing alternative housing models, including resident-managed tiny house villages (ordinances approved in August) and permitted camping. Fostered stronger partnerships with faith-based organizations and others, like Cal Poly Humboldt, DHHS, and local nonprofits as well government to share funding and resources for systemic change. We celebrated 10 years as a non profit and held an event to honor all of our honors and volunteers that made these 10 years possible. Holding monthly open forums (formerly GAs) open to the community, serving a hot meal. Hosting 4 interns from Cal Poly Humboldt in social work and other disciplines, all of whom had a successful experience and contributed to AHHA’s success. One example is their vital role in our week of activities for National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.
One of the most moving moments of the year was the Memorial Day event on December 21. Community members gathered to light candles and read the names of those who passed away while unhoused. Stories shared that evening underscored the love and humanity of people too often shunned by society. These are our neighbors we’re working for, and they remind us why this work matters. The Road Ahead in 2025This year, we’re focused on scaling innovative solutions and fostering collaborative actions: Alternative Housing Models: We’re expecting the development of various housing types, resident-managed tiny house villages and permitted campgrounds, which prioritize dignity, self-determination, affordability and community. These models are proving to be not just interim solutions, but pathways to stability and pride. Landowner Partnerships: By working with private landowners, local experts, and government programs we’re identifying opportunities to develop new housing alternatives in areas of greatest need. Empowering Residents: Those with lived experiences of homelessness are at the center of these solutions, managing and shaping their living environments to create thriving, self-sustaining communities.
AHHA’s Vision“Together, We Are Building a Future In Which Everyone Has a Place to Call Home.” In 2025, we envision a Humboldt County working together to ensure no one is left behind. Affordable, dignified housing will be accessible to all, supported by systems designed to meet individual needs. Achieving this vision requires collaboration at every level—nonprofits, community members, private landowners, civic organizations, and donors coming together from our region and beyond to create lasting change. We may be closer than we think! Check out these videos from Oregon of what imaginative housing models could look like in Humboldt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8hBBm7hRqw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KX2_Q5ejUpc How You Can HelpYou play a vital role in this mission. Here’s how you can support AHHA in 2025: Volunteer: Join us in building and supporting housing projects. Donate: Your contributions fund outreach, housing, showers, and other services. The number 1 donation we need is land for our villages! Advocate: Share our vision and advocate for equitable housing policies in your community.
Together, we can ensure that by this time next year, tiny house villages and permitted campgrounds are thriving communities where people have the space, tools, and support to rebuild their lives. Your continued collaboration and belief in the power of community make this work possible. With gratitude and optimism,
Nezzie and the AHHA Team! (707)-267-4035 OR (707)-298-1466 ahha.humco@gmail.com
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