Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada have long struggled with unhoused communities, with an estimated 6,000 unhoused individuals in Clark County as of the 2020 Point-in-Time Count. This number is likely to be an undercount, as it only includes individuals who were visible on the streets or in shelters on a single night in January. The majority of unhoused individuals in the area are unsheltered, living on the streets, in tents, or in makeshift shelters. Many are struggling with mental health issues and other challenges that have made it difficult for them to find and maintain housing. The lack of affordable housing options in the region has only exacerbated the problem.

Despite these challenges, there are individuals and organizations working to make a difference for the unhoused population in the valley. Diana Pedraza Harrison and Mike Harrison: husband and wife living in the area have dedicated themselves to helping the unhoused community through their organization, The Promise LV. As individuals who have experienced being unhoused themselves, they understand the importance of providing practical assistance and building relationships with those in need.

Through their efforts, they have provided 5-gallon water jugs, 700 gallons of water, and 7 shower packs to the unhoused community in the valley. These shower packs allow individuals to have access to hot water for bathing, and the water jugs serve as a survival tools for cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry. In addition to these physical resources, Diana and Mike also provide hygiene packs with necessary items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap, lotion, deodorant, toothbrushes, and toothpaste.

The couple’s efforts don’t stop there. They also raise funds to give access to the unhoused community to get their legal documentation in order. This can be crucial for those seeking employment or simply wanting to have a sense of belonging again. According to the Southern Nevada Unhoused Census, there were 5,645 individuals a significant inhuman treatment in the community. Diana and Mike’s efforts, along with those of other organizations and individuals. Around the community, there is still a long way to go in addressing the housing crisis in the area. The lack of affordable housing and the challenges faced by many unhoused individuals, including mental health issues make it a complex problem that requires a multifaceted approach.

However, the efforts of Diana and Mike and other organizations and individuals working to help the unhoused show that it is possible to make a positive impact, even with limited resources. By providing practical assistance, building relationships, and working towards long-term solutions, it is possible to create meaningful change for the unhoused population in the valley as a whole.