Annual Homeless Count 2011
KCBY, Jan 21, 2011
Oregon Coast Community Action is partnering with the South Coast Homeless Council and local organizations to complete the Annual Homeless Count event on Jan. 28, 2011 in Coos and Curry Counties. This count and survey helps identify needs for homeless individuals and families, and the results help determine the kind of funding and resources this region receives for homeless relief, outreach, and education.
The national count and survey takes place each January. It provides a “point-in-time” snapshot of the lives of those struggling with homelessness, and helps policymakers target resources to the areas experiencing the greatest need. The survey includes street homelessness, as well as people camping, living in a travel trailer, homeless youth in the schools, and staying temporarily in low-cost hotels and motels. The count is conducted by human services professionals, teachers, AmeriCorps NCCC members, and trained volunteers. Training is scheduled for Jan. 20 at 9 a.m. at the Nancy Devereux Center. Additional trainings may be arranged upon request.
“By joining together to count the homeless in our region, we are truly helping the entire community,” said Patricia Gouveia, Essential Services Director at ORCCA. “At the state level, funding for programs to help with homelessness and housing assistance are largely determined by the number of homeless individuals counted during this annual event. Our efforts will help hundreds of people in crisis throughout the region.”
“Through the help of community partners and dedicated volunteers, we can bring resources and relief to those facing challenges,” said Mary Schoen-Clark, CEO of ORCCA. “I hope everyone will consider how they can help families and children thrive, whether it’s helping by volunteering, supporting programs through donations, or raising awareness about these important issues.”
In an effort to make everyone count, a free sack lunch, bags of personal care products, as well as coats and blankets will be available to homeless families and individuals at the following locations: Coos Bay – The Nancy Devereux Center, The Maslow Project (for youth and families), The Green Spot and Mingus Park. North Bend – The Crossroads Café and Simpson Park. Charleston – Charleston Information Center. Port Orford – location to be determined. Lakeside – Park Gazebo. Hauser – Hauser Community Church. Bandon – Bandon Library. Gold Beach – Oasis Shelter. Coquille – Redemption Ministeries. Myrtle Point – Food Pantry. Powers – City Hall. Brookings – ORCCA office. Help us make a difference in the lives of homeless men women and children.
http://www.kcby.com/features/calendar/114377724.html