Homeless Connect day is Nov. 17

Midland’s homeless will have one-stop access to a wide range of assistance during Homeless Connect day Nov. 17.

A collaborative effort by Continuum of Care members, the event takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Downtown Midland.

People will be able to do such things as apply for food stamps and rent assistance, have a blood-pressure screening, get help to quit smoking, get a haircut, pick up food pantry items and winter clothing and be registered in the state homeless management information system.

Open Door, a nearby homeless shelter, will provide lunch. Midland Area Homes will have winter coats, hats, gloves, blankets and personal care kits to give away. All participating agencies will provide direct information or services.

“It’s a day when those who are homeless or struggling to keep in their homes can come to one place and start down the path to accessing services,” said Sally York, executive director of Midland Area Homes.

Midland Area Homes is a key organizer of the program, which also includes Shelterhouse, Salvation Army, Department of Human Services, Mid-Michigan Community Action Agency, Community Mental Health, Midland County Health Department, more than 20 other agencies, and dozens of community volunteers.

The once-a-year event is in its fourth year, York said. Last year more than 300 people attended. A head-count in January identified 327 homeless people in Midland County. The event is also open to anyone in danger of becoming homeless, York said.