The holiday season brings additional stress for those who are homeless. As part of KEDM's Policy And A Pint Tuesday, we look at ways community members can help support those by serving or volunteering during the season.
Kristie Hodges, director of the Wellspring's homeless program notes one simple way to help those in the area. "There are emergency food kits provided in certain situations. You can donate listed items we include as part of these kits," said Hodges.
There are several programs supported by the Wellspring directed to specific groups. "Home At Last" serves homeless families who have custody of at least one dependent child.
There are three programs serving area homeless veterans. One of those is Support Services for Veterans Families. Rental, utility, transportation, and child-care assistance is available through the SSVF program.
Hodges notes the PATHS program is an outreach to the local community. "We have a street team that goes out to check on homeless individuals and seeks to connect them to services and assistance," she said.
Hodges serves as a panelist in KEDM's Policy And A Pint. The public discussion is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Willie's Duck Diner in West Monroe.
