On Friday, January 31, a diverse group of residents, organizations, and community partners came together at the Amarillo Civic Center to provide critical support to unsheltered residents in a collaborative effort aimed at addressing homelessness. The Homeless Resource Fair, hosted by the Continuum of Care (CoC) and the City of Amarillo (COA) Community Development Department, served as a one-stop location where individuals facing homelessness could access a wide range of essential services and resources.
The fair brought together local service providers who offered support in areas such as housing assistance, mental and physical healthcare services, substance abuse counseling, job placement programs, and access to basic necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene supplies. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with specialists from these organizations to receive guidance, information, and direct assistance, empowering them to take the next step toward a more stable future.
This year’s event held even more significance as it coincided with the 2025 Winter Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. This annual nationwide initiative is a key tool in assessing the extent of homelessness in each community and identifying trends that inform strategies to reduce and prevent homelessness. The PIT Count provides valuable data on the number of individuals experiencing homelessness, including families, veterans, and those who are chronically homeless, helping organizations and local governments better understand the needs of this vulnerable population.
“This multifaceted event is a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together to care for its most vulnerable,” said Amarillo Mayor Cole Stanley. “It’s not just about handing out a meal or distributing supplies; it’s about offering hope, dignity, and creating pathways for individuals to find long-term stability and support.”
The impact of the event extended beyond resources and services. In addition to offering help, the event also provided attendees with a much-needed warm meal. Leal’s, a local Amarillo restaurant, generously donated their time and food to serve a hearty meal to those in attendance. Volunteers from City Church played a crucial role in meal service, as well as helping with cleanup efforts, ensuring the event ran smoothly and attendees felt welcomed and cared for. Local musician Andy Chase contributed to the event’s atmosphere by providing live music, creating a more uplifting and comforting environment for all.
One notable feature of this year’s event was the recognition of the important role pets play in the lives of many unsheltered individuals. The Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare (AAMW) team offered temporary pet crating for attendees who wanted to bring their pets along but faced difficulties doing so. This service allowed individuals to attend the event with their pets in comfort, without the added concern of leaving them unattended. By providing this thoughtful solution, the community helped break down a barrier that can prevent individuals from accessing much-needed services.
“This was truly a community effort. From the volunteers who worked tirelessly to the organizations that provided their expertise, this event highlights the compassion and unity that Amarillo is known for,” said Mayor Stanley. “It’s encouraging to see so many people come together to offer both immediate support and long-term solutions to our unsheltered neighbors.”
The City of Amarillo extends its gratitude to all of the volunteers, local businesses, service organizations, and community members who contributed to making the event a success. Their collective efforts ensured that this year’s Homeless Resource Fair was not just a place for individuals to get a meal or supplies, but also a stepping stone toward a brighter and more stable future for Amarillo’s unsheltered residents. This event is an example of the difference that can be made when a community unites with compassion and purpose to support its most vulnerable citizens.
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