The New Way Fights Against Surging Homelessness in Hart District

Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, the Hart District has witnessed an alarming surge in the number of homeless students, surpassing all previous records. In 2019, there were 388 homeless students, a figure that rose dramatically to 927 in 2022. As of 2023, it is anticipated that the number will exceed 1,000, marking an unprecedented high in the district’s history.
This rise has placed an overwhelming burden on educators, counselors, school social workers, and administrators who are grappling with an unparalleled influx of unhoused students. Regrettably, the resources available are inadequate to provide meaningful assistance to these students.
In response to this crisis, Jess Guidroz, founder of the 501c3 nonprofit organization, The New Way, took proactive measures. During his tenure as a teacher at La Mesa Jr. High School in the Hart School District, he initiated The New Way to offer housing and resources to unhoused students. Shocked by the lack of support for a student who hadn’t eaten in days, Jess established The New Way to fill this gap.
The New Way operates primarily through events like Veg Fest, an annual fundraiser held in June at Central Park. This event has proven to be a significant success, enabling the organization to financially support a homeless student and their family, providing accommodation and even assisting with a security deposit for a permanent home. Additionally, the organization distributed numerous gift cards to La Mesa Jr. High School, aiding over 60 homeless students.
Buoyed by the positive response, The New Way plans to expand its efforts. Collaborating with local nonprofits, such as Dink For Cause, the organization is exploring diverse fundraising avenues. Monica Hicks and Mitra Sushinsky, founders of Dink For Cause, generously offered their support by donating the proceeds from their annual Holiday Charity Pickleball Tournament to aid homeless families.
To further their cause, The New Way is inviting participants to register for the upcoming Pickleball tournament on November 18th and 19th. This inclusive event caters to players of all skill levels, with all funds raised directly benefiting homeless students in the Hart School District.
Beyond immediate relief efforts, The New Way envisions a future where they can address the root causes of homelessness. Their ambitious plans include the development of low-income housing complexes, wellness centers, and treatment facilities. Through these initiatives, they aim to empower struggling families not just to survive but to thrive in the face of adversity.
For further information on The New Way and their impactful work, please visit TheNewWay.me. The journey toward transforming the lives of homeless students is only just beginning, and with the community’s support, The New Way aspires to make a lasting difference.

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