WHO WE ARE
About Us
South Oakland Citizens for the Homeless: neighbors providing a community-based response to homelessness since 2003.
Our story
In 2003, a group of South Oakland County residents looked at homelessness in their own community and decided to respond — not with judgment, but with a warm meal and an open door. That response became South Oakland Citizens for the Homeless (SOCH) and its flagship program, the Welcome Inn Day Center in Royal Oak.
More than two decades later, we remain what we were on day one: a local, community-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by volunteers, donors, churches, and businesses who believe every person deserves dignity, safety, and a path forward.
Our mission
To provide a safe and welcoming space for those experiencing homelessness, offering compassionate support and practical assistance to help people transition out of difficult situations — with dignity.
Dignity First
Guests aren't cases or numbers. They're neighbors, greeted by name.
Community-Powered
Local volunteers, churches, and businesses make everything we do possible.
Real Outcomes
From meals to IDs to housing — we measure success one life at a time.
Leadership & accountability
SOCH is governed by a volunteer board of directors drawn from our community. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we are committed to transparency and careful stewardship of every gift. [Add board member names/photos and link to latest annual report or Form 990 here.]
Twenty years in, our best chapter is still being written.
Be part of it.