Not his $233 billion fortune nor his rumored Aspen wedding to supermodel Lauren Sanchez, but Amazon founder Jeff Bezos made headlines for starting the year on a philanthropic note. Through the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund, he bolstered the fight against family homelessness by contributing to an organization that has served the Greensboro community for 120 years. Giving back to society is not just important; it’s essential, especially in times of need. The tech tycoon’s funding arrived at a pivotal moment, as family homelessness in the U.S. surged alarmingly from 2022 to 2023. Families now account for over 28% of the nation’s homeless population, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
“What a way to conclude our 120th year of serving the Greensboro community, with this extraordinary gift,” said Salvation Army of Greensboro Corps Officer Captain Chris Raymer. “We are thrilled to be entrusted with these funds, allowing us to create an even greater impact for those we serve over the next five years. With this gift, we can help more families transition from the streets to stable housing.”
This grant is part of a broader $110.5 million initiative by the Day 1 Families Fund, which awarded grants to 40 organizations this year. Notable recipients include $2.5 million each for the Kentucky-based Welcome House and the Los Angeles-based Jenesse Center, as well as $5 million for the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust. Since its inception in 2018, the Day 1 Families Fund has distributed 248 grants totaling nearly $750 million to organizations across all 50 states, firmly rooted in the belief that no child should have to sleep outdoors.
As for the $5 million donation to the Salvation Army of Greensboro, Raymer emphasized that the funds won’t be used in one go. Instead, the money will support 30 families in need each year for the next five years. The plan allocates $1 million annually to enhance the Pathway to Success program, offering families the resources they need to achieve stability.
About The Salvation Army of Greensboro:
Serving the community since 1904, and now in its 120th year, the organization focuses on addressing the needs of the community by preventing homelessness and providing food, clothing, and quality after-school care. In 2023, the Salvation Army of Greensboro served nearly 52,000 people. This generous windfall will be used to expand its Pathway to Success program, aiding in housing families while offering case management and other supportive services.
