Project Homeless Connect a Success
On January 28, 2106, Project Homeless Connect served approximately 300 people at the Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds with medical, legal, housing, and employment services. Volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, nurses, dentists, social workers, and a judge gave their time while the Ground donated the venue for this event.
In one day, an individual or family experiencing homelessness can find services that would otherwise take months to secure. Because of this one-stop-shop model, what often takes months to accomplish can be completed in one day. From employment counselors to mental health professionals, to housing assistance programs, the goal of PHC is to ensure participants have all the tools necessary to rebuild what they have lost and move forward.
There were vision screenings and free glasses available for visitors. There were also dental exams and care for diabetes and AIDS. A pharmacy filled the day’s prescriptions for free.
Visitors also received identification, coats, and washed clothes courtesy of the Clean Machine provided by Ransom Cafe. They got needed medical help for pets through Delta Dogs and learned how to get bikes through the Delta Bike Project. They applied for housing or for jobs from fourteen employers.
The most popular services, though, were the barber and beauty stations with haircuts, styles, and manicures.
Image courtesy of The Southern Rambler
This event was started four years ago by Housing First to provide services for the homeless in one place in one day. By leveraging the power of volunteers and several local nonprofits and government agencies, Project Homeless Connect truly represents a community response to a community problem.