Newspaper
We print a bi-weekly, hyperlocal newspaper that challenges stereotypes surrounding homelessness and tells the stories of our Contributor vendors. The publication features writing by respected local journalists, but more importantly by vendors themselves, giving them a important voice in their community.
Vendor Paper Sales Program
People experiencing homelessness receive training and create their own micro-business by purchasing copies of the paper and selling them to the public. When Contributor vendors onboard with the organization, they receive a starter pack that allows them to begin safely selling papers immediately, and a bus pass to return. Not only does this income encourage dignity and self-esteem among Contributor vendors, it’s also often the crucial lifeline bridging the gap between nights on the streets and signing the lease on a home to call one’s own. Unlike panhandling, a vendor’s paper purchases are tracked in our database, becoming legitimate income, and can be used for subsidized and traditional housing applications. Every time a vendor returns to our office to replenish his newspapers is an opportunity for them to work with our C.O.V.E.R. housing team. Our offices are open six days a week for vendors to replenish their supply, discuss concerns, have a friendly chat, or grab some hot lunch.
Our popular bi-weekly paper-release vendor breakfasts offer valuable training and services and establish a strong sense of community. They also have become a place for university scholars, business leaders, and politicians to speak directly to people who have experienced homelessness. Since 2009, over 4,100 vendors have purchased over 7,400,000 papers and earned over $20 million to become contributors to the Middle Tennessee economy.
C.O.V.E.R. Housing Navigation Program
(Creating Opportunities for Vendor Engagement/Entrepreneurship and Residency)
Our COVER Program is a sophisticated eco-system that offers person-centered support to our vendors, from obtaining identification and life-line phones, to finding and furnishing an apartment, our approach is tested on the ground every single day and is also backed up by robust longitudinal research across communities worldwide. The Housing First model, which we employ, has shown promising results in improving the quality of life and changing the circumstances of unhoused persons. However, The Contributor’s model distinguishes it from other models by providing a crucial missing piece: consistent, regular contact and small-scale aid to its constituents, combined with actual income to secure interim housing and necessities. Research shows of all vendors who sell The Contributor for six months or more, over seventy percent transition into permanent housing.
Nashville-Davidson County HMIS: Public Privacy Notice
Where to Turn in Nashville Guide
We sponsor a resource guide with listings for Where to Turn in Nashville for help with food/housing/mental health/addiction/ and medical treatment. We distribute this guide to churches, police stations, and other nonprofit and public offices.