Homeless Connect to help those who need it most

Sometimes, it is difficult to get people involved and to volunteer their time. People are increasingly busy with their own lives, so if they are going to commit to something else, they want to know that what they're doing truly makes a difference. Project Homeless Connect, in its fourth year, is one event that focuses on effectively reaching out to help others who need it.

This year, and the next three, Safe House for Women will be the coordinating agency for the event, taking over for Community Caring Council, which coordinated the first three years of the program's existence.

"The event is for individuals in our community who are homeless, are at risk of homelessness or facing other financial challenges, or are in need of additional services," Jessica Hill, Safe House executive director, told the Southeast Missourian recently. "The Cape Girardeau community really comes together to put on this event."

That spirit of unity accomplishes much good for many people. It is rare that so many things can be tended to in one place on one day. But such is the case with Project Homeless Connect, which will take place at the Osage Centre at 10 a.m. on Oct. 2.

Various benefits will be available to those who attend. Some of those benefits will be food stamps, legal help, assistance from medical providers and family resources. Even personal hygiene items and beautification services, such as haircuts, will be offered. A food truck will be at the event to provide nourishment to those who need it. For those lacking identification, birth certificates and Social Security cards are among the IDs that people will be able to receive. It's rare to have access to so many service providers at one single event, which is what makes this one so remarkable.

Organizers are not only welcoming back those who have participated in the past, but are opening their arms to others. And the event makes it simple for attendees, who will move from booth to booth based on the services they require. To make it even easier, the event provides a "kids zone," allowing parents to tend to their business while their children are taken care of.

Volunteers are needed. No program as vast -- and worthwhile -- as this can be successful without the helping hands of as many as possible. Without donors and sponsors, for example, Project Homeless Connect will not fulfill its goal. Lunch is needed. Supplies are needed. Individual and team volunteers are needed, perhaps to work in shifts during this eight-hour event. Don't sell yourself or your service short. A community united can do a lot to help those who need it most -- and gifts are tax-deductible.

To offer your assistance or find out more about becoming a part of this service to our community, contact Safe House for Women at 335-7745.