Walking through the streets of Phoenix, it breaks my heart to see homeless individuals of all ages, genders, and races struggling alone and neglected by everyone passing by. Every day, these people fight for their lives and starve simply because they can't afford food or shelter. They sit through rain, violent thunderstorms, and cold, chilling wind with nothing but their hands to shield themselves. However, many shelters have been established to provide the homeless with access to the vital resources they lack. One such shelter, Keys To Change in Phoenix, Arizona, has served over 13,000 homeless individuals.

Keys To Change has been a guiding light to many and received federal aid during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, that federal funding is running out, and one of the overflow spaces has already been closed, which eliminated 110 shelter beds. As a member of The Peace Warrior's Global Youth Program (GYP-2025), I would like to advocate for increased funding to support Keys To Change homeless shelter. If they don't receive more funding, another 170 shelter beds will be removed in the fall. The summer is also a peak season for homelessness, and most of the other shelters in Maricopa County are also experiencing significant funding losses as you read this. 

A survey has revealed that homelessness has gone up 3% in Maricopa County due to all funding losses. This may not seem like a lot, but it is hundreds more homeless on the streets than before. This is hundreds more people suffering from starvation, poverty, and cruelty. The number of people staying in shelters has dropped 16% due to a lack of beds and resources. These individuals deserve better, and with the rising costs of housing and food, many may never be able to afford these basic necessities.

I respectfully urge the local and federal governments to provide more funding for Keys To Change so it can impact thousands more lives. This would significantly reduce homelessness and help those in need. I hope Keys To Change can continue to be a ray of hope to many individuals in Maricopa County with your help.

The homeless population needs us now more than ever, so join us and sign this petition to provide more funding for Keys To Change and help make it accessible to everyone who depends on it.