Who We Are

A Catalyst for Community Impact

Gulf Coast Partnership (GCP) is a nonprofit organization that supports the work of community organizations across Charlotte County, Florida. We use data, coordination, and funding strategies to address community challenges like housing, education, and disaster recovery so that all residents can thrive.

‍• Strategic Collaboration - Aligning efforts across systems
‍• Grant Development - Bringing resources into the community
‍• Data & System Design - Driving solutions through shared information
‍• Disaster Recovery - Supporting resilience and long-term recovery

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A small child hugs her mom
the word "together" in colurful text

What We Do

Driving Solutions Through Collaboration & Data

• Continuum of Care
‍• Coordinated Entry System Design
Grant Writing & Fund Development
Community Data & Research
‍• Disaster Recovery & COAD
‍• Education Innovation: Stars Academy

Non-Profit
Those in need

Gulf Coast Partnership's mission is to facilitate community-wide initiatives to understand community needs, identify and implement best practices to meet those needs, and to raise the quality of life for all residents.

Important Events

2026 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count

Each January, the Gulf Coast Partnership leads the annual Point-in-Time Count—a coordinated, national and communitywide effort to understand homelessness in Charlotte County. Volunteers, service providers, and outreach teams work together to survey individuals and families staying in shelters, transitional housing, or living in places not meant for habitation. This one-night snapshot offers critical insight into local needs, trends, and gaps in services. The data collected helps guide federal and state funding decisions, strengthen community planning, and improve programs that support residents on their path to stability.

The 2026 PIT Count will begin at 6 AM on Monday, January 26, 2026. There are half-day and full day shifts available. If you are unable to commit to a half-day or full day shift - please contact Chris Oester, Director of Coordinated Services at chris.oester@gulfcoastpartnership to discuss your availability.

Deadline to register to participate is January 15, 2026.

To ensure every volunteer is prepared, we offer mandatory PIT Count training sessions covering safety, survey procedures, and data collection.
Training dates for the upcoming count are:

• January 13, 2026, at 9 AM
• January 14, 2026, at 1 PM
• January 15, 2026, at 3 PM


The PIT Count reflects our shared commitment to building a more resilient, connected community where every person has the opportunity to secure safe and stable housing.

Registration

2026 Community Champions Breakfast

At Gulf Coast Partnership, we believe in the power of employers and educational institutions to make a lasting impact on the lives of Charlotte County's most vulnerable populations. We invite you to be a part of recognizing and celebrating those exceptional leaders who go above and beyond to enhance our community. Please join us on Thursday, February 5, 2026, when local businesses, nonprofits, and government leaders will gather to celebrate the incredible people, businesses, and educational institutions who are building a more inclusive, resilient workforce—one opportunity at a time.

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Art Under the Stars

Art Under the Stars is more than a fundraising event—it's a celebration of imagination, community spirit, and the belief that every child deserves a bright beginning. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 14, 2026, at The Event Center at Holy Trinity on Rampart Blvd. in Port Charlotte, this one-of-a-kind evening will transform an indoor space into a whimsical, starlit landscape, combining the wonder of childhood with the elegance of a high-end art gallery.

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Featured Initiative

Youth Leadership

The Gulf Coast Partnership is committed to developing the next generation of community leaders. As a YHDP community, we engage youth through targeted programs that build leadership skills, foster civic responsibility, and create pathways to education and employment. By equipping young people with the tools to overcome challenges and drive positive change, we are investing in a stronger, more resilient future for our entire community.

Individuals & Families

Need Help? We're Here to Connect You

The Gulf Coast Partnership works behind the scenes to strengthen the network of care in Charlotte County. While we do not provide direct services, we serve as a Coordinated Entry Access Point for individuals and families facing a housing crisis. Through this process, we conduct assessments to determine eligibility for housing programs and connect you to the most appropriate resources offered by our trusted community partners. Whether you're navigating a temporary setback or experiencing a more serious crisis, we’re here to help guide you toward long-term stability by linking you to the support you need.
Homelessness
Housing
Training
Disaster Recovery
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Together we
can provide

Giving

Be a Catalyst for Change

Your support empowers the frontline organizations that serve homeless Veterans, vulnerable youth, struggling families, and survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.By strengthening the systems and partnerships that make these services possible, your contribution helps create a more coordinated, compassionate, and effective response to the community’s most urgent needs.Together, we’re building a future where everyone has the opportunity to find safety, stability, and hope.
Thank you for being a catalyst for lasting impact.
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