United Way of Western Connecticut Gives Boost To Danbury Project Homeless Connect

The United Way of Western Connecticut has given a welcome boost to efforts to address homelessness in the region by contributing $1000 in gift cards for food purchases to be distributed to persons in need at Danbury Project Homeless Connect 2010.  The cards will allow individuals and families facing homelessness to purchase meals at area food establishments. 

Danbury's Fourth Annual Project Homeless Connect will take place on December 10, 2010 on the Downtown Campus of Western Connecticut State University from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.  Organized by the Greater Danbury Continuum of Care, the event is a key component of the region's Ten-Year Plan To End Homelessness bringing together more than forty area housing agencies and service providers along with community volunteers to provide one-stop delivery of an array of assistance to persons who are homeless or in need of housing or supportive services. Danbury's project is part of a nationwide effort to end and prevent homelessness in America initiated by the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness.  

An array of services will be provided on-site, including medical and vision screenings, dental services, housing assistance, social services, Veterans benefits, credit counseling, substance abuse counseling, nutritional assistance, credit counseling, legal help, employment assistance, mental health counseling and other services.  Transportation will be provided to bring clients to Connecticut Motor Vehicles Department for help with driver licenses and identification.  Hot food services will be provided throughout the day courtesy of Walsh Catering.  Bus passes, gift bags, clothing and other items will also be provided for guests.  Volunteer translators will be on hand to assist guests.  WestConn students will be staffing an activities area for children.  Individuals and agencies are invited to call should they have any questions about the services offered or if they have any special service needs. 

The United Way of Western Connecticut has been a key partner in Danbury Project Homeless Connect from its inception.  In addition to its financial contributions, United Way representatives have actively participated in planning and outreach efforts regarding the event.  This year the United Way’s David Deschenes produced a video regarding the Danbury Housing Partnership and Danbury Project Homeless Connect that was introduced at the Danbury Housing Partnership Awards Breakfast in October.  The United Way also participated in the development of Danbury’s Ten-Year Plan To End Homelessness and is represented on the Danbury Housing Partnership, the entity established to oversee implementation of the plan.

For more information about Danbury Project Homeless Connect and the Greater Danbury Continuum of Care please call Co-Chair Milena Sangut at 203-448-3224 or click on the link:

http://www.danburysroadhome.org/content/59/192.aspx

For more information about the Danbury Housing Partnership please call Chairman Mark J. Nolan at 203-797-8255 or visit http://www.danburyhousingpartnership.org.