City Lights Tulsa efforts to end homelessness with housing, outreach programs

Sarah Grounds is the founder and executive director of City Lights, a nonprofit organization formed in 2013 to support and build relationships with people experiencing homelessness in Tulsa.

Grounds said City Lights began with Night Light Tulsa, a weekly outreach event started in September 2013, which revealed the depth of need within the community.

Since then, the organization has expanded its services to include housing stability support, mobile outreach, and plans to build City Lights Village—a permanent housing community offering wraparound support services.

Night Light Tulsa provides vital weekly services

Night Light Tulsa serves as a crucial connection point between the organization and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Grounds says at the weekly outreach event, City Lights provides warm meals, clothing, haircuts, and essential wellness services. The program focuses on building community, restoring hope, and offering dignified care so that everyone feels seen and valued.

Having served Tulsa’s homeless community for 12 years, City Lights emphasizes respect and dignity for every person they encounter.

What are the numbers?

Tulsa has seen a 4% increase in homelessness over the past year, underscoring the critical demand for long-term housing solutions.

The 2025 Point-in-Time Count recorded 1,449 people experiencing homelessness in Tulsa County—the highest number ever documented.

Of those, 496 were unsheltered, and 55% had a disabling condition.

Additionally, there are about 2,700 people currently waiting for housing.

City Lights advocates for a “housing first” approach, combining permanent housing with wraparound support services and community building to effectively address chronic homelessness.

How the community can help

City Lights encourages the public to support its mission through donations of time, money, and resources. Those interested in contributing or learning more can visit CityLightsOk.org/donate. You can reach out to the organization at CityLightsOk.org/connect for any questions.

Upcoming expansion offers new opportunities

This fall, City Lights plans to announce new ways for the community to get involved in the development of City Lights Village, the supportive permanent housing project currently underway.

Follow City Lights

Facebook: The City Lights Foundation of Oklahoma

Instagram: @citylightsok

LinkedIn: The City Lights Foundation of Oklahoma