A Hand Up Fund

The A Hand Up Fund (a component fund of the Solano Community Foundation that began in Vacaville, CA) addresses the critical health needs of homeless individuals throughout Solano County and surrounding North Bay communities.

The Health Crisis on Our Streets

Homelessness and health are inextricably linked.  Our daily work, with an estimated 300 homeless individuals in Vacaville alone, reveals the devastating health consequences of life without shelter: untreated chronic conditions, mental health crises, substance abuse disorders, and preventable deaths from exposure and lack of medical care.  According to our frontline experience, approximately 65% of our clients struggle with mental health issues, while many lack access to basic hygiene facilities, nutritious food, and preventive healthcare services.

Our Mission and Impact

Founded by Skip and Gail Thomson, A Hand Up operates with a unique approach that addresses both immediate health needs and long-term stability.  Unlike traditional charity models, we focus on dignity restoration and sustainable self-sufficiency through comprehensive support services.  

Our programs include:

• Direct Health Support: Connecting clients to medical care, mental health services, and disability benefit navigation
• Preventive Care Access: Weekly meal delivery to 35 individuals, providing consistent nutrition to prevent health deterioration
• Hygiene and Safety: Distribution of hygiene products and clothing essential for health maintenance and employment readiness
• Healthcare Navigation: Assisting clients through complex systems to access SSI, SSDI, and healthcare services
• Crisis Intervention: Emergency assistance for vehicle repairs, housing applications, and other stability factors that directly impact health outcomes

Proven Results Through Relationship-Based Care

Our trust-based approach yields measurable health improvements. Clients consistently report that our reliable support helps them maintain medication regimens, attend medical appointments, and address mental health needs.  One client shared: "They helped me get off the streets.  I was living under the bridge.  They found me and helped me get a place to stay and find a job."  Such transformations begin with addressing basic health and safety needs.

An Opportunity to Expand Through Sponsorship: 

Your contributions will directly improve health outcomes for hundreds of Solano County residents experiencing homelessness while reducing costly emergency room visits and hospitalizations.

All donation to A Hand Up through the Solano Community Foundation are fully tax-deductible and receive official acknowledgment from SCF. 

1. Mobile Health Outreach: Enhancing our delivery program to include basic health screenings and medication management support
2. Mental Health Navigation: Expanding our capacity to connect clients with mental health services and addiction treatment programs
3. Preventive Care Initiative: Establishing partnerships with local healthcare providers to offer regular check-ups and preventive care
4. Emergency Health Fund: Creating a rapid response fund for urgent medical needs and prescription assistance

Thank you for your support of meeting our community members with compassion and solutions.