Project Homeless Connect of Lane County Needs Your Help

Get connected with one of Lane County’s largest community outreach events. Volunteers and donations are needed for this year’s fifth annual Project Homeless Connect for Lane County set for Thursday, March 17, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m, at the Lane Events Center in Eugene.

This event offers homeless citizens a variety of services and basic necessities, including free medical exams, dental checkups, vision care, haircuts, hot meals and basic provisions, as well as information about housing, employment and education. Last year, 1,402 guests were served in one day with the help of more than 500 community volunteers and 300 local service providers — from doctors and nurses to hairdressers and bike mechanics.

Volunteers are needed to help set up the event, greet guests, help guests access services, distribute donations and more. Coats, sleeping bags, socks, backpacks, gloves, hats and scarves are also needed, as well as hygiene products, such as shampoo, soap and hand sanitizers.

To volunteer, donate items, or make a cash contribution, go to www.homelessconnect.org or contact Richie Weinman, Project Homeless Connect event coordinator, at (541) 912-1767 or richieweinman@gmail.com.