Project Homeless Connect returns to Menard Center this Wednesday

WASILLA — It’s that time of year again. Over 50 agencies and 150 volunteers are expected to come together for the eighth annual Mat-Su Valley Homeless Connect at the Menard Sports Center this Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This will be a day with free, hot lunches, childcare, clothing, food items, “goodie bags” and access to vital resources in an effort to get the homeless homed and the less fortunate more fortune.

The Mat-Su’s homeless and disadvantaged are invited to make the most out of the “one-day, one-stop, one community" event that attempts to improve lives by connecting individuals and families to essential services and community resources. Those attending will have access to a broad range of services, including health and wellness screenings, legal services, employment assistance, food, toiletries, and so on. Items like deodorant (men and women) feminine hygiene products, shampoo, laundry detergent soap/body wash, fruit snacks, non-perishable snacks, first aid kits, mini flashlights with batteries, toilet paper, socks, hats, and gloves will be distributed. Volunteers will also be on-site to assist participants filling out applications for housing opportunities.

According to the Mat-Su Coalition on Housing and Homelessness, “on any given night in the United States, more than 550,000 people, including 114,829 children, are without a place to call home.”

Mat-Su Health Foundation, The United Way of Mat-Su, Mat-Su Coalition on Housing and Homelessness, the City of Wasilla, Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, and the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority all banded together again to combat the growing need within the community. Although this event focuses heavily on the homeless, everyone from the community is welcome to attend, especially seniors. The array of resources will prove to be useful for a number of people. According to volunteer, Kelly Marre, this event is a way to compensate for the lack of sufficient shelters in the area.

“We have many homeless people in the Mat-Su Valley, but no homeless shelter that will take everyone,” Marre said.

In addition to hot and fresh lunch, there will also be free transportation available to this event. For those in need of a ride, call 907-864-9109. For more information about the project, call Mat-Su Project Homeless Connect Co-Coordinator, Laurie Kari at 907-357-6160 or email her at lkari@familypromisematsu.org.