Collage of images showing community service, food distribution, baked goods, volunteers, and a dog, promoting awareness for Kalamazoo's unsheltered community.

Who Are We?

United for the Unsheltered is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with gold-level status on Guidestar, the premier destination for non-profits and non-profit research. We’re dedicated to addressing and alleviating the challenges our unhoused neighbors face. Our mission is to provide essential resources, support, and advocacy for individuals and families currently unhoused. Through community partnerships, outreach programs, and innovative solutions, we offer immediate relief by distributing fresh, hot meals, ready-to-eat travel foods, hygiene kits, and other assistance. By uniting compassionate individuals and organizations, we work to address the urgent needs of the unsheltered while offering long-term solutions for stability.

Data That Tells a Story

How many unhoused are in Kalamazoo?

1

As of the January 2025 Point-in-Time (PIT) count, there were 791 unhoused people in Kalamazoo County, marking a 19% increase from 2024 and the highest number since 2011


How many people live in Poverty in kalamzoo?

2

27% of residents with determined poverty status — about 18,100 of 66,900 people — live below the poverty line, exceeding the national rate of 12.4%.


What About food insecurity?

3

Approximately 35,000 to 38,000 people in Kalamazoo County experience food insecurity, representing about 1 in 6 residents. This includes nearly 9,000 children and teens. The crisis is driven by high poverty rates, with 27% of the city of Kalamazoo's population living below the federal poverty line. 


is there access to shelter?

4

Out of the 791 individuals, 709 were in shelters or transitional housing, while 82 were unsheltered.

Upcoming Events

  • Meal in the Park

    January 29, 2026

    507 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

    Join United for the Unsheltered each week at Dr Martin Luther King Memorial Park as we serve free, hot meals to our unhoused neighbors and those experiencing food insecurity. This welcoming community gathering offers nourishment, connection, and support in a safe, inclusive space. All are welcome!

  • Meal in the park

    February 5, 2026

    507 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

    Join United for the Unsheltered each week at Dr Martin Luther King Memorial Park as we serve free, hot meals to our unhoused neighbors and those experiencing food insecurity. This welcoming community gathering offers nourishment, connection, and support in a safe, inclusive space. All are welcome!

  • Meal in the park

    February 12, 2026

    507 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

    Join United for the Unsheltered each week at Dr Martin Luther King Memorial Park as we serve free, hot meals to our unhoused neighbors and those experiencing food insecurity. This welcoming community gathering offers nourishment, connection, and support in a safe, inclusive space. All are welcome!

  • Meal in the park

    February 19, 2026

    507 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

    Join United for the Unsheltered each week at Dr Martin Luther King Memorial Park as we serve free, hot meals to our unhoused neighbors and those experiencing food insecurity. This welcoming community gathering offers nourishment, connection, and support in a safe, inclusive space. All are welcome!

Our Impact

Served

23,000+ Meals

Lives Changed

Supplies Distributed

1500+ Clothing, camping gear, and
hygiene kits

Contact

Please contact us with any questions or for partnership inquirires.

Email
u4ukzoo@gmail.com

Phone
(555) 555-5555