Homeless count

The homeless count has begun. This is an effort to get a better idea of how many homeless people are in Dothan, Ala. Our numbers will be added to the national figures for a better idea of the homeless situation nationwide. While we don't know the numbers right now, I know they have increased. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out why. With millions of people losing jobs and houses due to our nation's economic recession, that means a lot more people have become homeless. The National Alliance to End Homelessness reports that 1.5 million additional Americans could become homeless over the next two years due to the recession.

Martha and I filled out survey forms on 13 homeless people last night. The main needs are housing, jobs, food, transportation and medical assistance. We met a young family of seven last night. There's another family of six that we're helping as well. The others we're working with are three couples and a father and son.

We will be filling out more surveys, along with volunteers from other organizations and agencies. These counts give us a better idea, but they never provide the total numbers. It's hard to get that.

We're looking forward to the Homeless Connect event this Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at United Christian Fellowship Church, located at 208 E. Lafayette St. in Dothan. This event will help the homeless with warm clothing, food, blankets, sleeping bags, personal hygiene items, referrals to needed services and a hot meal. Love In Action will be giving out the personal hygiene items.