Hip-Hop for the Homeless Responds to Increasing Need

Hip-Hop for the Homeless (HH4H), now in its 12th year, is a grassroots movement led by Hartford artist and educator Joey Batts. Hip-Hop for the Homeless brings together dozens of volunteer artists — rappers, producers, DJs, dancers, and poets — who use performance and culture to uplift the community and challenge the stigma associated with homelessness.

“When the temperature drops, the need rises”, shared HH4H Founder Joey Batts. “These shows are about coming together to support each other when it matters most — when it’s cold, when it’s hard, when our neighbors need us. Hip-hop brings us together, and together we show up.”

HH4H events collect funds, winter clothing, blankets, socks, gloves, nonperishables, and essential items for local shelters, warming centers, and street outreach teams.

This year’s multi-city winter tour runs December 4–20, supporting shelters, warming centers, food pantries, and outreach programs across Connecticut (and Massachusetts).

As homelessness rises nearly 10% statewide and winter weather increases the demand for emergency support, HH4H activates local artists, community leaders, and partner organizations to raise money and collect essential winter supplies for residents in need.

Since 2014, Hip-Hop for the Homeless has raised more than $52,000 for shelters and food pantries, and attracts more than 700 attendees annually to its community-driven events.

2025 TOUR SCHEDULE & BENEFICIARIES

Dec. 4 – New Haven – DESK (Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen) @ Three Sheets, (372 Elm St)
Dec. 5 – Simsbury – Simsbury Food Pantry @ Hoops n Hop (1185 Hopmeadow St)
Dec. 6 – Norwich – TVCCA Shelter @ Strangebrew Pub (86 Water St)
Dec. 12 – New London – Homeless Hospitality Center @ The Oasis Club (16 Bank St
De.c 13 – New Britain – The Friendship Center @ Unknown Clothing (18 Main St)
Dec. 18 – Hartford – HH4H Showcase Event @ Black Eyed Sally’s (350 Asylum St)
Dec. 19 – Manchester – MACC Charities @ The Main Pub (306 Main St)
Dec. 20 – Hartford – Hands On Hartford @ Parkville Market (1400 Park St)