Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
UMOM New Day Centers has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation to support a transformative redesign and renovation of its emergency shelter campus.
As the largest provider of family emergency shelter in Arizona, UMOM is leading a bold initiative to increase capacity, reduce wait times, and provide dignified, healing spaces for families experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County, according to a press release.
With more than 350 families in Phoenix experiencing homelessness and waiting up to nine weeks for shelter, this investment will help UMOM expand its impact and ensure that no child is left without a place to call home, the release states.
The project aims to increase shelter capacity by 25% through the renovation of 150 existing rooms, adding more beds and reducing wait times. It will also create large shelter rooms to accommodate multigenerational and larger families, allowing them to stay together during their journey out of homelessness. The renovation will elevate dignity and respect through trauma-informed design, fostering emotional recovery and resilience. Additionally, the project will expand wraparound supportive services, including case management and workforce development, to empower families toward long-term stability.
Cox has been an enduring supporter of UMOM for over 20 years, contributing more than $400,000 through sponsorships, Cox Charities grants, Cox Technology Centers, Cox Conserves community garden support, and volunteer engagement.
