Renewing hope. Rebuilding lives.
The Homeless and Travelers Aid Society of the Capital District prevents, reduces, and combats homelessness within the New York State Capital Region. Also knows as HA-TAS, we address the short-term need for shelter, food, and basic support while never losing sight of the more permanent need for affordable housing, employment, food security, education, treatment, and a general sense of well-being. We believe that every person has a human right to safe and affordable housing.
Prevent.
We prevent homelessness by providing support to at-risk households. Hundreds of households in our community live on the brink of homelessness, and by supporting their needs we are able to prevent them from becoming homeless.
Reduce.
We reduce the number of homeless households in our community through the continued operation of our housing program(s). Programs include Permanent Supported Housing (PSH) and Rapid Re-housing (RR). HATAS was one of the first providers of Rapid Re-housing within the Capital Region and we continue to be one of the largest.
Collaborate.
Preventing and reducing homelessness requires a large and diverse team of people. We collaborate and coordinate with our nonprofit partners, our partners in government service, the local business community, law enforcement, foundations, individual donors, and most importantly, the homeless themselves.
Our Impact
The stories of those who participate in HATAS programs and services are as numerous and diverse as our community itself. These are our friends and neighbors who need help in overcoming what is often a desperate situation. No one should have to take this journey alone, and with the support of community members like you, HATAS can continue to provide essential support to rebuild lives.
Janelle’s Story
After being granted parole, Janelle came to HATAS looking for assistance in securing housing. She was enrolled in our Prison Reentry Program, which helped her move into her own apartment while securing employment at a local grocery store. HATAS was able to provide Janelle with everyday essentials, such as basic housewares, furnishings, and transportation through CDTA bus passes.
The path out of homelessness is not an easy one. Janelle faced numerous challenges and hardships throughout her year-long journey. However, the selection of services HATAS offers provided her with the support required to persevere.
Janelle completed the Solutions to End Homelessness Program (STEHP) and grew confident in imagining a future in a larger apartment, returning to college, and being reunited with her children.
Name and photo have been changed for privacy.
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