Profile: Central Arizona Shelter Services

Mission

Central Arizona Shelter Services' (CASS) mission is to empower men, women, and children with diverse needs to end their homelessness by providing shelter and supportive services.

Background

CASS was founded in 1984 in response to a need for an agency to operate an emergency shelter for the homeless in downtown Phoenix. It is the largest shelter and service center for homeless people in Arizona, serving 6,000 men, women, and children annually.

CASS has two facilities. The main facility in downtown Phoenix serves 400 homeless men and women. Vista Colina Emergency Family Shelter, is a 30 unit apartment complex in Sunnyslope that houses homeless families with children. Both operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.