Understanding the crisis of homlessness

To the editor:
    As we approach the first anniversary of the weekly Houseless Count, management of the Hope and Justice Project and Homeless Services of Aroostook want to thank everyone who has taken an interest in the growing challenges of our friends and neighbors and family members experiencing the crisis of homelessness and domestic violence.
    Ever since the newspaper had generously agreed to print our numbers of people served or unable to be served each week, many citizens have commented that they never realized how large the issue of homelessness really is in our area.
    With this in mind, the Statewide Homeless Council that serves to inform and advise Maine’s legislature and governor on issues related to homelessness is hosting a public forum. Representatives from local organizations as well as Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services and Maine Housing will be present to discuss homelessness and the challenges facing that growing segment of our population. The forum will be held at UMPI in the multipurpose room of Campus Center on Tuesday, Dec. 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is open to anyone wanting to learn about homelessness in Aroostook County or share their experiences of trying to access services related to avoiding or escaping homelessness.
    Thank you that we live in a community that cares about people and we look forward to seeing you there.
Francine Stark
Hope and Justice Project
Steve Eyler
Homeless Services of Aroostook