229 attend successful Homeless Connect
The Nov. 17 Homeless Connect event in Midland was a success, extending help to almost 50 percent more households than in the previous year.
A total of 229 people from 178 households attended the event, up from 161 people and 120 households in 2009. In all, help was given to 412 household members.
Sponsored by Continuum of Care and coordinated by Midland Area Homes, the event was designed as a one-day, one-stop gateway to help Midland County’s homeless residents and those at risk of losing their homes.
Twenty-eight agencies had representatives present to assist attendees. First United Methodist Churchmade its building available, Hidden Harvest provided food for attendees to take home, and Open Door provided lunch.
Many volunteer workers were present as well, and individuals and churches donated winter clothing and other items to give away.
Several elected officials took time from busy schedules to serve at the event: Midland Mayor Maureen Donker and City Council member J. Dee Brooks; Midland County Commissioners Rose Marie McQuaid and Richard Keenan; State Rep. Jim Stamas, and Circuit Court Judge Michael Beale.
The Midland Daily News and 360 Main Street publicized the event.
Sharon Mortensen, chair of Continuum of Care, said homelessness is a real and growing problem in Midland County. Homeless Connect, in its fourth year this year, is an important part of the struggle to prevent and alleviate the problem in all its forms, Mortensen said. She extended thanks to all who helped make this year’s event a success.
