County seeking volunteers for 2013 homeless census

Thurston County is looking for volunteers for the 2013 homeless census planned for Jan. 24.

The census is part of a nationwide "point in time" count to determine who is homeless, why and what resources they need, according to a news release.

The county will hold a Homeless Connect Event at First Christian Church, 701 Franklin St. SE, in Olympia to count those living on the streets and in encampments while providing a one-stop place for basic health, food and social services.

A secondary event is planned at the Temple Beth Hatfiloh, 201 Eighth Ave. SE, in Olympia, to offer medical, dental, and vision screening and referral. No services will be provided, but doctors will be on hand to help guide people to services. Doses of T-Dap, and flu vaccinations will be available at no cost.

"This year's homeless connect event is an exciting new approach for Thurston County," stated Theresa Slusher, county Homeless Coordinator, in the release. "It will allow us to do more than count people; it will allow us to actually help people."

Volunteers from schools, non-profits, churches, businesses, elected officials and the homeless themselves will be needed for the actual counting of the homeless.

The results are part of the county's annual "Point in Time Count of Homeless Persons Report," that provides an accurate count of homeless, qualifies their needs and provides assessment of current resources.

Those interested can email or call Steven Briggs, Homeless Connect manager, at sbriggs@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-628-0502.For information, visit this website or call Anna Schlecht, homeless census coordinator at aschlech@ci.olympia.wa.us or by calling 360-753-8183.