Front Steps

Also known as the ARCH, this place really helps out those in need. Whether an individual is newly homeless or has been for years, the people and services of the ARCH are welcoming and supportive. There’s a clinic, a kitchen, a 100-​bed sleeping area and a computer lab, open to individuals in 30-​minute intervals for applying to jobs or just general internet surfing. There’s a number of people available to help individuals get back on track.
I’m just a volunteer, so that’s the ARCH from my point of view. I’m not sure how the homeless would view it, although to me it seems like an excellent place to help out people in need. It can fill up pretty quickly though, so a lot of times it gets cramped, but at least the resources are there.
My dad and I have volunteered here several times, usually in the computer lab. The majority of people who come through here are very nice, in fact many of them are simply in a transitional stage of homelessness. Unfortunately, there’s also a few people who simply have bad attitudes, and some who are not mentally well. Luckily, there’s usually at least one security guard to keep the peace inside. Altercations are very rare, and most of the time they’re over the two bathrooms. Though it’s very interesting to see how much people cool down after they’ve used the restroom.