Where It Started

The New Way was founded by Jess Guidroz, a Santa Clarita native and former English teacher at La Mesa Jr. High School in the William S. Hart School District. La Mesa had the highest population of unhoused students (72) with very limited resources to help these kids, so Jess started The New Way to help his students in any way he could.

With very little knowledge on how to run a 501c3 nonprofit and no real experience in fundraising, Jess decided to use events as a tool to raise awareness of the homelessness issue with the 1,000+ students impacted in the Hart School District alone. Then the Eat Drink Local festival, Hoops for Hart 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, Cornhole and Pickleball Tournaments were born! All proceeds from these events go towards helping these unhoused students navigate these waters as best they can.

The New Way supports the unhoused students in the William S. Hart School District, and in order to do so as best we can we need your help. Come to our events, spread the word to family and friends, sponsor our events and donate to the families that need the help. Together we can eliminate the homelessness issue in our city.

Empowering Homeless Students

At The New Way, our cause is clear: to empower homeless students in our community and provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive.

Our Mission

Our mission is to break the cycle of homelessness among students and pave the way for a brighter future. We believe every child deserves access to education, stability, and opportunities for growth. Through our programs and initiatives, we provide holistic support that addresses the unique challenges homeless students face, helping them overcome obstacles to success.

Our Services

Pantry

We are committed to stocking every school's pantry in the Hart District with food, clothing, and toiletries, ensuring students have access to the essentials they need every day.

Housing

Providing financial support for security deposits and the first or last month's rent, helping families secure stable, long-term housing.

Stays

Arranging hotel or motel stays for families currently living in their cars or on the streets, offering immediate relief and a safe place to rest while they work towards a more permanent solution.

  • Tutoring and Academic Support
    School Supplies Assistance
    Scholarship Opportunities

  • One-on-One Mentorship
    Life Skills Workshops

  • Food and Clothing Distribution
    Housing Referral Services

  • Support Groups and Peer Networks
    Community Events and Activities

  • Policy Advocacy
    Outreach and Awareness Campaigns

Board of Directors

Meet the dedicated team behind The New Way. Committed to empowering homeless students, our diverse and passionate group brings expertise from various fields. From education and social work to advocacy and community engagement, we are united in our goal to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Get to know the faces driving our organization forward.

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  • At The New Way, we are proud to collaborate with a diverse network of partners who share our commitment to empowering homeless students. From local businesses and community organizations to educational institutions and government agencies, our partners play a crucial role in helping us expand our reach and impact. Together, we work hand in hand to provide essential resources, support services, and opportunities for homeless students to thrive."

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  • Our partners are integral to the success of our mission at The New Way. Through strategic collaborations and shared goals, we are able to leverage our collective strengths and resources to address the complex challenges faced by homeless students in our community. Together, we advocate for policy changes, develop innovative solutions, and create pathways to education and stability for those in need. Our partners inspire us and drive us forward as we continue to make a positive impact on the lives of homeless students.

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Make a donation.

Join us in rewriting the stories of homeless students. Your donation to The New Way isn't just a contribution; it's an investment in futures filled with hope and opportunity. Together, we can break the cycle of homelessness and empower students to reach their full potential. Every dollar makes a difference. Make your impact today.

Make a Donation