About Us

Fifteen years ago, Wings Co founders Peggy Benedum and James Young dreamed big about what a compassionate response to homelessness could look like, and 10 years ago, they refined their model and incorporated. And every year since, Wings volunteers have been forging connections with other service providers and people experiencing homelessness in Santa Cruz County.

For 10 years, Wings volunteers have faithfully shown up for the unhoused community and flexed as we refined our programs, but the vision and focus have never changed. Wings supports care managers from more than 45 service providers to fill gaps in existing services, remove barriers to housing and employment, and support people experiencing homelessness on a path to housing and healing.

As our programs have grown in reach and impact, especially over the last 5 years, we at Wings have been dreaming about what the legacy of our founders could look like.

Welcome to the New Chapter of Wings

That is why, as of January 2026, Wings will continue operating its core programs within the PeopleFirst organization, a like-minded and respected service provider in Santa Cruz County. This integration strengthens our long-term stability and capacity while preserving the mission, values, and heart of our work.

The same Wings team, the same empowered volunteers, the same proven programs will continue under the PeopleFirst umbrella, while also ensuring that more of our hard-won resources directly support the people we serve.

"From clients getting a new haircut, a notarized application for a birth certificate, or a ride to the doctor, Wings offers a wide array of supportive services that helps bridge the gap in resources and makes a big impact in the lives of my clients."

- Housing Matters Case Manager

Our Mission

We ❤ Our Volunteers

Our team of caring volunteers is dedicated to support individuals and families in their walk out of homelessness. Working with professional case managers, we volunteer our time and talent to help homeless participants complete tasks and obtain resources needed to become housed and self-sufficient.

Our Vision

Wings Homeless Advocacy is committed to living out our values of compassion, dignity and respect for all people by uniting our community to be volunteers for those moving out of homelessness and onto a path of healing.