Phoenix AZ  (December 14, 2015)  Hundreds of the Valley’s most needy homeless youth will have access to emergency housing in 2016 thanks to a $100,000 donation from The Thunderbirds – Hosts of the Waste Management Phoenix Open Presented by The Ak-Chin Indian Community– to the Tumbleweed Center for Youth Development. The funds will help Tumbleweed operate the Emergency Housing Program (EHP), a 33-bed facility in a renovated motel on East Van Buren Street in Phoenix

“In EHP’s first full year, more than 230 young people living on the streets found a safe place to sleep, showers and laundry facilities, access to food, counseling and job placement at EHP,” said Tumbleweed Chief Executive Officer Cynthia Schuler.  “Thanks to the compassion and generosity of The Thunderbirds and the money raised through the Waste Management Phoenix Open, these youth can be sure this life-changing service will continue to be open to them.”

Homeless youth at Tumbleweed’s Emergency Housing Program receive help with clothing and job placement as well as housing, food, essential items, counseling and life planning services for up to 90 days.

The EHP assists youth ranging from teenagers to young adults who are often fleeing abusive home situations and do not have a safe place to sleep. EHP provides a safe space for collaborating with youth and young adults in our community who are vulnerable or experiencing homelessness. These safe spaces allow access to caring relationships, resources and programs that offer opportunities for young people to develop their individual potential.

“EHP’s commitment to help the youth in our community is something we’re proud to be a part of,” said Danny Calihan, Thunderbirds Charities President. “Their caring and compassion is something we should all strive for in our personal lives.”The donation will help cover rental costs and food as well as assure that expert on-site staff resources remain available.

About The Thunderbirds/Thunderbirds Charities

Thunderbirds Charities is a non-profit organization formed in 1986 to distribute monies raised through the Waste Management Phoenix Open golf tournament. The Thunderbirds Charities Board consists of 15 board members from varying professional backgrounds. The mission of Thunderbirds Charities is to assist children and families, help people in need and improve the quality of life in our communities. The organization’s giving is directed toward organizations based or with a significant presence in Arizona. The Thunderbirds were founded in 1937 with the mission of promoting the Valley of the Sun through sports. The Thunderbirds consist of 55 “active” members and more than 250 “life” members. For more information on the Thunderbirds or the 2016 Waste Management Phoenix Open, visit www.wmphoenixopen.com. For more information on Thunderbirds Charities, visit www.thunderbirdscharities.org.