WHITTIER AREA FIRST DAY COALITION

Whittier Area First Day Coalition (First Day) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to ending homelessness and supporting self-sufficiency. Since 1989, First Day has served vulnerable populations across Los Angeles County, with a focus on underserved SPA 7 communities. Originally founded by the Whittier Area Interfaith Council, the City of Whittier, and the Whittier Salvation Army, the organization began as a cold weather shelter and referral hub. Today, we support over 2,000 individuals annually through two interim housing sites, intensive case management, clinical services, and housing navigation. We serve justice-involved individuals, LGBTQ+ clients, and others facing complex barriers to housing. Our holistic, trauma-informed approach addresses the root causes of homelessness, such as mental health, substance use, and chronic health issues.