HugTheHomeless.org Support

Human connection, dignity, consent

Hugs that honor consent. Care that respects boundaries.

HugTheHomeless.org is building a consent‑first volunteer community. We focus on respectful options—like a smile, conversation, a handshake or fist bump, or a consensual hug—guided entirely by the other person's choice.

Become a Volunteer Read Safety & Ethics

We never touch without clear permission. Alternatives to hugs are always offered.

Connection matters

Sometimes the kindest thing is presence: listening or a simple greeting.

Our mission

Foster dignity and belonging for people experiencing homelessness through consent‑first connection, practical kindness, and community education.

Consent‑first connection

We equip volunteers with language to ask clearly, listen, and honor any answer—“yes,” “no,” or “not today.”

Practical kindness

When appropriate, volunteers may offer conversation or small comfort items; no promises or claims beyond what we can provide.

Community education

We share ways to support neighbors respectfully, including boundaries, privacy, and trauma‑aware practices.

How it works

Simple, transparent, and led by consent.

  1. Step 1

    Prepare

    Complete a short orientation (online or in‑person) on consent‑first outreach and safety.

  2. Step 2

    Approach

    Introduce yourself, ask permission to talk, and offer options (hug, handshake, fist bump, or none).

  3. Step 3

    Respect

    Accept the answer without pressure. “No” and silence are respected, always.

  4. Step 4

    Support

    Offer only what you actually have available (e.g., conversation or a resource card). No exaggerated claims.

Important: Hugs are never required. Consent can be withdrawn at any time.

Safety, consent, and dignity

Clear boundaries protect participants and volunteers.

Consent‑first policy

  • Ask before entering personal space; accept any answer immediately.
  • Offer alternatives to touch (conversation, fist bump, wave, or none).
  • Never interact with minors without guardian permission.
  • Do not take photos unless explicitly requested and documented.

Volunteer safety

  • Go in pairs; daylight or public spaces preferred.
  • Carry only what you’re willing to lose; no valuables.
  • Trust your instincts and step away if anyone seems uncomfortable.
  • Review and acknowledge the participation waiver.

Volunteer with us

Orientation is free. We'll share practical scripts and safety guidelines.

Join a local meetup

Connect with others who care about consent‑first kindness.

Find a group

Get the mini‑training

Short orientation on boundaries, consent, and trauma awareness.

Start training

Share resources

Help print simple info cards or list local shelters and hotlines. No claims about donated materials.

Help organize

Support

We’re keeping this page accurate—no fundraising claims or tax language until everything is formally set up.

Contribute time

Most helpful right now: volunteer hours for outreach prep and orientation.

Offer time

In‑kind help (case‑by‑case)

Only what we can actually distribute now (e.g., printed resource cards). No claims of donated materials.

Ask what's needed

Monetary gifts (coming soon)

We’ll add secure payment links after accounts are verified. Until then, we are not accepting funds here.

Note: We are not claiming 501(c)(3) status or tax‑deductibility on this site. If that changes, we will update this page with documentation.

Get in touch

Questions about orientation or partnerships? Use the form below.

Organization info

  • Email: hello@hugthehomeless.org
  • Mailing: Update this when finalized.
  • Status: Community project in development. No formal nonprofit claims here.
  • Social: Add links when active.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 211 (U.S.) for local resources or 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.