Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner in Ending Homelessness in Washington, DC
Founded in 1970, So Others Might Eat (SOME) has dedicated over five decades to breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness in Washington, DC. Our mission centers on providing material aid, housing, healthcare, and workforce development programs that address immediate needs while fostering long-term stability. Through a holistic 'whole person care' model, we integrate medical, behavioral, and social services tailored to individual circumstances, emphasizing dignity, trauma-informed care, and racial equity. With 1,295 residents in affordable housing programs and over 22,000 annual healthcare visits, we combine direct service delivery with systemic advocacy to address root causes of homelessness.Our team of social workers, clinicians, and educators collaborates to deliver personalized pathways to self-sufficiency, supported by a 4-Star Charity Navigator rating and GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency. By prioritizing client-centered approaches and community partnerships, we empower individuals and families to achieve sustainable independence.
Services
Housing Programs
Healthcare Services
Career Training
Case Management
Senior Services
Emergency Services
Dental Clinic
Behavioral Health
Substance Use Treatment
Advocacy Programs
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience breaking the cycle of poverty in Washington, DC
- Our whole person care model addresses physical, emotional, and social needs comprehensively
- 89% of every donation directly funds our lifesaving services
- We offer integrated housing, healthcare, and job training programs tailored to individual needs
- Our team of experts includes certified social workers, clinicians, and educators
Associations and certifications
- Charity Navigator 4-Star Charity
- GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency
Services
Affordable Housing
We provide safe, permanent housing for individuals and families earning 30% or less of the area median income. Our 971-unit program includes transitional housing, senior housing, and crisis stabilization centers. Residents pay no more than 30% of income in rent and receive free access to healthcare, addiction recovery, and employment training services.
Career Training
Our Center for Employment Training offers free vocational programs in healthcare and building trades. Graduates earn an average $20/hour and receive resume-building, interview preparation, and externship opportunities. The program includes transportation, clothing, and food support for participants.
Healthcare Services
We deliver comprehensive healthcare including primary care, dental services, behavioral health, and substance use treatment. Our clinics serve over 22,000 annual visits with sliding-scale fees and accept multiple insurance plans. Specialized programs address chronic illness and mental health needs for homeless populations.
Case Management
Certified case managers create personalized care plans addressing housing, employment, and healthcare needs. Services include budgeting assistance, rental payment plans, and connections to government benefits. Rapid re-engagement programs support residents maintaining sobriety and housing stability.
Senior Services
We provide affordable housing and support services for seniors through facilities like Karin House and Keuhner House. Programs include emergency housing for abused seniors, nutritional support, and medical equipment assistance to help older adults maintain independent living.
Questions
How does SOME help people experiencing homelessness?
We provide housing, healthcare, job training, and case management through our 'whole person care' model that addresses physical, emotional, and social needs.
What percentage of donations go directly to services?
89% of every dollar donated goes directly to our lifesaving services for people experiencing poverty and homelessness.
How can I get help from SOME?
Contact us at 202.797.8806 during business hours or visit our Get Help page for housing, healthcare, and employment assistance options.
Do you offer career training programs?
Yes, our free Center for Employment Training offers healthcare and building trades programs with job placement support and living wage outcomes.
What areas does SOME serve?
We primarily serve Washington, DC and provide housing programs in Hampshire County, West Virginia.
Reviews (6)
O'Donna Boochie Daniels Daniels
Jun 02, 2022
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I used to not want to eat here because of the reused plates, now they have paper plates. Still doesn't make up for the half dirt half clean odor masqued by the cooked food aroma, in the kitchen area, or the dirty clean bathroom odor in the service facility. I pray for those workers who have to deal with that odor. Maybe they need staff appreciation.overall I heard they have good fast service response time although I only eat there on days when I have no food to consume
Walter Gladden
Mar 17, 2022
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That's is a great place for the homeless to go and get something to eat and there have place for people to live also for Low-income or for people that can not find some where to live
Kenneth Mason
Jan 25, 2022
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Excellent, clothing closet, Organized and clean! The gentleman who operates the closet is courteous to all of us, in spite of.
Jefferson Wade
Jan 09, 2022
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I am not able to give other wemon attention before Christmas and it was a female on the 3 way phone conversation with Sammie pigg today on the train to union station in D.C.
M. Smith
Nov 23, 2021
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Great place to give back to the local community. Staff is friendly, and supportive in making the volunteer experience positive.
Yvonne Jett
Sep 15, 2021
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As usual, I was given the best of help. My dentist was very forthcoming and made the time spent there very comfortable. She was also very knowledgeable.
