Providing Hope and Care to DC Residents for Over 50 Years
Our Story
Since 1970, SOME has been a care provider and a beacon of hope to residents in our nation’s capital. Our services are available to individuals, families, senior citizens, veterans and those affected by physical or mental illness. Every day, we are working to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through our comprehensive approach, which we call Whole Person Care.
Many of our clients come to us with urgent needs—a meal, a shower, a toothbrush. After meeting their short-term needs and establishing trust, we focus on their long-term needs. We customize individual care pathways that meet their physical, emotional, social, financial, spiritual and behavioral needs holistically. Our team of social workers, clinicians, instructors and volunteers work together to put our clients on the path to success.
How We’re Meeting an Urgent Need Close to Home
There are many triggers that lead to homelessness, including job loss, domestic violence and illness. In a city like Washington, DC, with our soaring cost of living and lack of affordable housing, many of our neighbors are just one hardship away from dislocation.
Our Culture
As a faith-inspired organization, our founding mission stems from our belief that everyone deserves dignity, respect and autonomy. Appreciation for our shared humanity and sense of community has been a central pillar of our operations for over 50 years. At SOME, we strive to serve, empower and elevate all members of our community.
Our Values and Mission Statement
Our values are the fundamental beliefs that guide what we do. They are the lens through which we view the world. Every day, they motivate us to do better, to be better.
Mission Statement
SOME provides material aid and comfort to our vulnerable neighbors in the District, helping them break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through programs and services that save lives, improve lives, and help transform lives of individuals and families, their communities, and the systems and structures that affect them.
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Our History
In 1970, Father Horace McKenna, S.J. and an interfaith group of priests, ministers and volunteers started a lunch line on North Capitol and K street in Washington, DC. Each day, the neighborhood would gather to enjoy a free meal. Out of those early days of soup and sandwiches, SOME grew into what it is today—a valued community leader working to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through our comprehensive approach to care.