About
Whittier Area First Day Coalition (First Day) was founded on a vision for a healthy, safe, and vibrant community, a broad goal that encompasses everything from secure housing, stable health, and productive employment to resident engagement, civic involvement, and respect for one’s neighbors. First Day’s mission is to help homeless and at-risk individuals and families to transition toward self-sufficiency. Founded by a local coalition of concerned residents in Whittier, the agency’s programs span Los Angeles County with a focus on underserved SPA 7. Core values embodied by the Board, leadership and employees include compassion, respect, integrity, collaboration, empowerment, and innovation.
Our organization, a leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to combating homelessness, has been serving the greater Whittier community since 1989. With a dedicated team, we provide critical services to some of the most vulnerable populations, including unhoused LGBTQ+ and justice-involved individuals. Since its inception, First Day has been a consistent presence in the fight against homelessness and poverty in underserved southeast Los Angeles County. Founded as the Social Services Coalition (SSC) by the Whittier Area Interfaith Council, the City of Whittier, and the Whittier Salvation Army, our agency initially focused on providing cold weather shelter and referrals for services. Today, First Day serves as a front-line provider for approximately 2,000 diverse individuals each year, offering a wide array of programs and services aimed at fostering stability and self-sufficiency as adults experiencing homelessness move to permanent housing. Our commitment to holistic support means we believe in addressing not only the immediate needs of our clients but also the underlying causes of homelessness, including health, mental health, and substance abuse issues. Through our two interim housing sites, intensive clinical and case management services, community access center, and housing navigation services, we empower individuals to reclaim their independence and achieve long-term housing stability.