A variety of activities and programs are planned this month to not only assist those individuals who are unhoused, but to also raise awareness and understanding in the community.
It is estimated that approximately 50 individuals in the Macomb-area are unhoused, or residing in shelters. To help raise awareness for homelessness, numerous Macomb organizations are hosting numerous events as part of Homelessness Awareness Month.
'Homelessness may not be as out in the open in our community, so it's hard to give an exact number of individuals who are unhoused. Some will stay with friends, jumping from home to home, but we have been seeing it more out in the open,' said Amber Clark, executive director of The Samaritan Well, and Sally Vigezzi, Macomb Police Department social services coordinator. '
From 5:30-7:30 p.m.., Tuesday, Nov. 18, individuals are invited to attend a free chili supper in Chandler Park.
Numerous social service agencies will be also on hand to provide information and raise awareness about the plight of homelessness.
'We really want people to come together to make a positive impact and spread kindness,' Vigezzi said.
Individuals in the community can help by taking part in Dine in to Donate to The Samaritan Well from 4-8 p.m., Monday, Nov. 17 at Chipotle; 5-9 p.m., Wednesday, Nov.
19 at Buffalo Wild Wings, and all day, Friday, Nov. 20 at the Jackson Street Pub. A portion of the funds will be used at The Samaritan Well for resident needs, supplies, appliances, utilities and maintenance.
Amber Clark, the executive director of The Samaritan Well, along with SW staff, will also be visiting MacArthur School, Lincoln School, Edison School and Macomb Middle School this month to read books to students about homelessness and poverty. In addition, the Macomb Public Library has a display table with the books that Clark is reading at the local schools, along with other books to raise awareness. MPD in the department lobby is also making books available for people to learn more.
Homelessness Awareness Month sponsors include The Samaritan Well, Inc., Genesis Garden, Macomb Police Department and the McDonough County Township Office.
