Recognizing World Homeless Day + Our Work on Project Connect
On October 10, we observed World Homeless Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about homelessness and its underlying causes. This year, we invite you to learn more about the complexities of homelessness by reviewing articles on our blog, including the intersections with Foster Care, PIT Counts and explore how we use data to coordinate resources across our Continuum of Care.
Homelessness is not just a lack of shelter; it encompasses a myriad of issues, including poverty, mental health challenges, and systemic inequalities. As a way to help address these inequalities, we recently revived Project Connect – a one-day event that connected unhoused folx with a variety of local human services organizations.
On October 9, we hosted 58 provider organizations to allow guests to check as many boxes as possible at once. By providing individual guides to each guest, we were able to reach 277 individuals facing housing instability and provide each of the services below.
Access to our Coordinated Entry System
Blood Pressure, Diabetes & Cholesterol screening
Influenza & COVID-19 vaccinations
Rapid HIV and STI screening & education
Free Narcan & Narcan Education
Access to Insurance Providers
Legal Aid
SNAP, Medicaid/Disability Benefit Application Assistance
Mental & Behavioral Health Screening
Peer Support Groups
Veteran Benefits
Youth & Family Service Providers
Housing Search, Assistance & Shelter Connection
Transportation Education & Bus Passes
Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking Providers
General Assistance
Financial Aid
Free Haircuts
Free Hygiene materials (toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, conditioner, feminine hygiene materials)
Free Take-Home Food Packs
Food Pantry Education/Connection
Workforce Assistance
Free Lunch & Beverages
We would especially like to thank our Visionary sponsors for this year’s event: Mutual of Omaha, Nebraska Domestic Violence Coalition, and United Healthcare.
As we move into the colder months of the year, we encourage everyone to watch for opportunities to help support our unhoused neighbors. Our CoC partners regularly host events and drives to provide resources and support to the community. Select locations also open their doors as warming stations during the coldest temperatures to keep people safe.
Our CoC’s network of resources helps prevent individuals and families from facing housing insecurity and gain access to safe, quality housing. If you are able, please support our work to make a direct impact in homelessness prevention.
Please follow us on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn to stay connected and engage in our community’s collective response to housing insecurity in Douglas, Sarpy, and Pottawattamie Counties.