HomeMy WebLinkAboutGrant Request - United Way - Homeless ProjEconomic Development Fund
Discretionary Grant Program
Organization: United Way of Deschutes County
Organization Description: United Way of Deschutes County is supporting this project
by serving as the primary clearinghouse for collecting cash donations to suppor this
effort.
Project Name: Project Homeless Connect
Project Description: Volunteers and agencies gather on one day, in one place, to provide
health and human services to the homeless. Individuals, businesses, church groups and
social service agencies from Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson Counties are collaborating
on October 11 at the Hooker Creek Event Center at the Fair and Expo Center. The grant
will be used to purchase basic necessities such as food, personal hygiene and first aid
kits, clothing, blankets, prenatal kits, baby food, diapers and pet food. In 2007, this event,
with the assistance of 525, helped over 1,200 homeless people utilizing more than
$38,000 in cash and $15,000 of in-kind donations.
Project Period: Event - October 11, 2008
Amount of Request: $3,000 (Total Budget = $43,000)
Previous Grants:
• September 2007: $3,000 Project Homeless Connect ($1,000 Daly, $1,000 Luke,
$1,000 Melton)
Deschutes County Board of Commissioners
1300 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97701-1960
(541) 388-6570 - Fax (541) 385-3202 - www.deschutes.org
DESCHUTES COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND
DISCRETIONARY GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATION
Direct Application to:
Commissioner Tammy Baney
Commissioner Dennis R. Luke
Date:
7h7/ng
Project Name:
Project Beginning Date:
Amount of Request:
Commissioner Michael M. Daly
All Three Commissioners
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Applicant/Organization:
Address:
Project End Date:
Date Funds Needed:
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Contact Name(s):
Fax:
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Alternate Phone:
Tax ID #•
City & Zip:
Telephone:
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Email: of j v\c,ba rick,✓@ k ke, es
On a separate sheet, please briefly answer the following questions:
1. Describe the applicant organization, including its purpose, leadership structure, and activities.
2. Describe the proposed project or activity.
3. Provide a timeline for completing the proposed project or activity.
4. Explain how the proposed project or activity will impact the community's economic health.
5. Identify the specific communities or groups that will benefit.
6. Itemize anticipated expenditures*. Describe how grant funds will be used and include the
source and amounts of matching funds or in-kind contributions, if any. If the grant will
support an ongoing activity, explain how it will be funded in the future.
Attach:
Proof of the applicant organization's non-profit status.
* Applicant may be contacted during the review process and asked to provide a complete line item budget.
Amount Approved:
By: Date:
Declined: By: Date:
July 17, 2008
Tammy Melton
Deschutes County Board of Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street
Bend, OR 97701
Dear Tammy,
On October 13, 2007 Project Homeless Connect along with 525 volunteers helped over 1200
homeless - individuals, families, seniors and veterans receive multiple services ranging from
medical and dental attention to survival skills along with housing assistance and help with
employment opportunities.
Still, in central Oregon each night 1756 people sleep outside, in cars, on the floors of friends
and family, in shared hotel rooms or in the few shelter beds that are available. Of the homeless
identified in the one night count in January of this year, 754 were children. With the
uncertainty that many of us are facing in our own lives it's easy to see how hard times can be
life threatening for those with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. There were three
deaths this winter due to exposure of individuals that lived in the tent camps of central Oregon.
Through the efforts of Project Homeless Connect a renewed awareness has risen and more
coordinated effort is being made to assist those in need. A 10 year plan to end homelessness
and poverty in central Oregon is currently being drafted. More conversations are taking place
between local organizations and agencies in the tri -county area to work together to address this
issue on a united front. A greater emphasis is being placed on education and financial training
for low income and the homeless. We truly want to keep those on the verge of homelessness
from falling off this cliff.
Last year over $38,000 in cash and $15,000 of in-kind donations were received from numerous
businesses, organizations and hundreds of caring compassionate people from all over central
Oregon to support this one day event, and the lasting effects have been tremendous. After
Project Homeless Connect in 2007, $10,000 was granted throughout the area to
assist 64 adults and 77 children to secure or obtain permanent housing. Families in
Madras, La Pine, Prineville, Sisters, Redmond, and Bend benefited from these monies. For your
convenience a detailed report from the event listing all the services and how many people were
served is included with this application.
This year Project Homeless Connect will be held on October 11, 2008 at the Deschutes Expo
Center. We are asking Deschutes County to again support this effort with a grant of $3,000.
The funding provided will purchase basic necessities such as food, personal hygiene and first
aid kits, clothing and blankets, prenatal kits, baby food, diapers and pet food (just to name a
few things) that will be distributed to guests during the event.
A 2008 budget is attached detailing the anticipated expenditures. United Way of Deschutes
County is our fiscal sponsor for Project Homeless Connect. All donations will be received by the
United Way and all payments for expenses will be made in accordance with existing guidelines.
08/24/2007 14:51 FAX 541 385 1742
COMM CHILDREN & FAMILIES a J 001
Internal Revenue Service Department of the Treasury
District
Director
P. Deschutes United Way
115 N.W. Oregon Avenue
Room 7, O'Kane Building
Bend, OR 97701
Okdl aA-0---,:1.6 a s
Gentlemen:
/04
915 Second Ave., Seattle, Wash. 98174
Person to Contact:
John Sutton
Telephone Number:
(206) 442-5106
Refer Reply to:
EP/EO:EO:II:JS
Dere: SEP 0 9 1980
c�.
of s9'
6e. 09- 5
This is in reply to your request for a copy of your exemption letter.
Our records show that your organization was granted exemption from
Federal income tax on September 21, 1953 under section 101(6) of the
1939 Internal Revenue Code which now corresponds to section
501(c)(3) of the 1954 Code. We have also determined that you are
not a private foundation because you are an organization described
under section 509(a)(1) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi).
We are enclosing a copy of your original exemption letter for your
records. This exemption remains in effect.
Sincerely yours,
Ralph S. Busacker
Chief, Technical Staff
Employee Plans and Exempt
Organizations Division
Enclosure
F C.)IN!..t_i...
CO\NftT
7 6.peop e are°hothees every n
754 of herr are CHI
lease visit www.CentralOregonConnect.org for more information.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Hooker Creek Event Center at the Deschutes County Fair
and Expo Center in Redmond. 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
What is Project Homeless Connect?
Project Homeless Connect (PHC) began in San Francisco in 2004. Volunteers
and agengies gathered on one day, in one place, to provide health and human
services to the homeless. Since 2004, PHC has become a national event held in
more than 100 cities.
Portland and Eugene were the first in Oregon to adopt the PHC model uniting
hundreds of volunteers and agencies under one roof to provide health and
human services to more than 4,000 community members in need.
How does Project Homeless Connect work?
Individuals, businesses, church groups and social service agencies from Deschutes,
Jefferson, and Crook Counties are collaborating under one roof, for one day to
provide critical information and services to the homeless - people living in tents,
vehicles, on the streets, in cheap motels, couch hopping - as well as those doubled
up with other families.
These agencies will provide free advocacy and referral assistance, in addition to the
free produts, goods and services listed below.
On Event Day - October 11, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Community members in need will check in and be guided through the services most
helpful to their individual needs.
Services to be offered:
• Medical/Dental care and follow-up
• Hygiene products
• Meals
• Child Services
•Vision screening and free glasses
• Employment opportunities
• Legal advice
• Health screenings
• Veterinary care
• Help applying for benefits
• Credit & Financial Counseling
• Clothing
• Domestic violence counseling
• Phone access
• Bicycle lottery
• Housing/Shelter lottery
• Haircuts
• I.D. replacement
• Sleeping bags
• AND MORE!
GET INVOLVED!
Sponsor
Sponsorship Packages includt.
media coverage, logo placem, nt,
speaking opportunities,
giveaways and employee
participation.
Dina Barker 408-7991
Donate
In -Kind Donation products
needed include beverages, craft
supplies, hygiene products,
clothing, etc.
Suzanne Reininger 390-3433
Volunteer
Volunteers are needed to join task
teams planning the event and
on-site teams on event day in all
the service areas being proviced
as well as translators, food services,
intake, etc.
Businesses, groups, individuals
of all ages (children 10+ too!) are
needed as volunteers.
Cindy Pasko
504-1389
cindy@partnershiptoendpoverty.org
kaiemmr
CONNECT TODAY!
• ••t' • Project Homeless Conner t
541-504-1389
• centraloregonconnect.or 1
www.cohomeless.org
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PROJ ECT
CONNECT
Pre -Event Volunteer Opportunities:
We are currently looking for team leads to start the organization of our service areas; and amateur or professional
videographers and photographers to help create an informational power point presentation on homelessness and
poverty(which will be posted on YouTube). We have special ongoing tasks that can also be accomplished from
home with a computer and email access.
Event Day Volunteer Opportunities:
Volunteer for an hour or for the day. Volunteer individually, in families, business, or church groups. Well behaves'
children over the age of 8 may volunteer with an adult. Areas of service are on the back. You may request the area
you wish to participate at, or you can be assigned to where the need is.
Event Sponsorship Opportunities: ����,,,
(These have marketing privileges attached)
t p._ , sik! s Tt.`P ,,w . ry ',44)9. Al€T , klil i' $ lis SS3yt e o
Platinum Sponsor: $3,000 (Maximum of 5)
Gold Sponsor: $1,500
Silver Sponsor: $750
Bronze Sponsor: $250
PARTNERSHIP
TO ENO POVERTY
Fiscal Sponsor: United Way of Deschutes County — All donations are tax deductibl
Adopt an Area Opportunities:
Groups may adopt an area: (Company or organization may prominently post business or organizational banner in
this area)
Provide and coordinate all the materials to be used for an area (we supply the trained service providers)
Adoptable areas: Financial, Teens, Children, Medical, Dental,
Donate Funds or Services or Supplies:
These helps will be given only to pre -qualified pre-screen applicants. Donate for one or for many.
Prescription - (no pain medication except for children), average cost is $35 per person
Work ID - (birth certificates to get Oregon ID - $18-$45) Replacement Driver's License is $21)
Bus passes — booklets, full year pass, etc. to be used to look for or to maintain work
Car Repair — average $200 for car repairs for cars used for work
Tires — replace the bald tires on work cars —average is $80 per tire
Child Care - One month of child care for homeless working parent
Dental - help someone get the dental care they so urgently need.
Personal Care items - shampoo, razors, deodorant, cream rinse, soap, chap stick, hand lotion, laundry detergent
"Scholarships":
"Scholarships" will be given only to pre-screened applicants.
COCC scholarship - Any amount equal to or greater than 1 semester's tuition (1 to 3 classes)
Vocational/Trade School — Any amount equal to or greater than one complete course (based on an average cost o
$2,000
Housing or Utility Assistance:
Any donated amount to be used for housing or utility assistance.
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Event Sponsorship Opportunities
Co -Title Event Sponsor: Partnership to End Poverty
OPEN
I Name prominently displayed in all print materials
A' T• wo large company banners to be prominently displayed in the event center
1,1 Participation at Reception with dignitaries day of event
A• cknowledged during opening remarks
Logo on all volunteer T-shirts
Sponsor may place a company table at event site of choice and/or,
Printed company literature in designated areas
Name prominently displayed in all print materials
One large company banner to be prominently displayed in the event center
Participation at Reception with dignitaries day of event
Acknowledged during opening remarks
Logo on all volunteer T-shirts
Sponsor may place printed company literature in designated areas
4-0 9.0 411 44:1 1 1.1111 -
N• ame displayed in print materials
, O• ne large company banner to be prominently displayed in the event center
Participation at Reception with dignitaries day of event
1 Acknowledged during opening remarks
11 Logo on all volunteer T-shirts
!4,0:14f0 •:'?
1 Name displayed in print materials
1 One large company banner to be prominently displayed in the event center
Participation at Reception with dignitaries day of event
1 Acknowledged during opening remarks
Logo on all volunteer T-shirts
Name displayed in print materials
One large company banner to be prominently displayed in the event center
Participation at Reception with dignitaries day of event
7).1)1)0S0V;
Educational scholarships, Housing Allotments, Bus Passes, Trade School, etc.
Fiscal Sponsor: United \Iva). of Deschutes County
hl All donations are tax deductible
(16 ))
PARTNERSHIP
1,, ENO fOVERiv
n1tef
Way
UnIVAW.3y
1 Checks may be made out to: "United Way" and note "Project Homeless Connect" on the check
r PO Box 5969, Bend, Oregon 97708
Credit Cards are accepted by calling 389-6507 or by visiting www.deschutesunitedway.org
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Project Homeless Connect Volunteer Applicalion
October 11, 2008, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
oluuteei tor the full d iv or for 1kNo hours ccgaiento
Hooker Creek Event Center at the Deschutes' County Fairgrounds
Please complete this form for each applicant.
Email to: iandthebovs abendbulletin.com or fax to: 504-1399.
Name
Address
Street
City Zip
Phone Number
E-I\1ail
In case of emergency who should we call? Contact Name: Number;
Responsible children over the age of ten may volunteer with a
parent or guardian, and a signed release. We encourage groups
and families to volunteer.
Have you been convicted of a crime involving children?
Yes I 1 No ❑
Project Descriptions are listed below.
If the specific team or task you want to sign up for is not
listed, or you are unsure of which team you are interested in,
sign up here. We will contact each volunteer applicant by
phone or email.
Yes, please contact me, 1 have questions.
If you wish to participate by donating money, checks
may be made out to United Way, PO Box 5969,
Bend, OR 97708, Attention: Project Homeless
Connect, or contact United Way at 389-6507, or at
www.deschutesunitedway.org All donations are tix
deductible.
Medical
A medical unit is available to
Homeless Connect clients for
urgent care medical services.
Patients are triaged by volunteer
RNs and NPs and most often
have minor acute illnesses that
are managed at the visit. On site
screenings, and immunizations.
Financial
Credit checks, matched savings,
register to vote, financial literacy,
personal identification, etc,
Dental [
A dental unit is available for
cursory cleaning, urgent care and
dental referral. Dental staffs
needed.
Personal
Attention
Volunteer to offer letter
writing, haircuts,
massage, skin care,
veterinary care for
pets, phone calls, and
a variety of other
personal attention
services.
II
Table Decorations ;l
Create beautiful fall table
decorations for the registra-ion
tables and the food court
tables.
Nutrition []
Help inform on food prep,
outdoor cooking, nutrition _, id
other furl food facts.
Social Services U
If you are a current or retired
professional, volunteer, or case
worker in any type social service
agency, or non-profit service, you
are needed. Battery, social
security, veterans, employment,
education, legal, GED,
job skills, pregnancy, resource
referral, woman's resources,
senior and disabled, and more.
Survival
Demonstrate and offer tips on
camping, cooking, personal safety,
food safety. Conduct free product
drawings. If you have outdoor
skills: cooking, camping, self-
protection —we want you!
Exit Interviews I. J
Conduct a short interview
with guests to find out if
the event helped them.
Also hand out gifts, food
bags, and other items as
guests leave.
Mental Health &
Addictions
Mental health and addictions
professionals or current
trained volunteers are needed.
M, ALANON, NA, or other
type addiction counselors are
also needed.
Volunteer Services
Help direct, and check in
volunteers on the day of the event.
Typing and
Administrative
Help with small
projects.
Bilingual Help
Translation/Interpretation
Help with bilingual
communication.
Child Activity/Care
Provide care for infants and
activities for children up to the age
of 10. This includes reading, doing
crafts, and or physical activities
with children who really love to be
loved. This is a perfect opportunity
to volunteer for two hour shifts, or
fro groups to volunteer together
and plan the activities.
Teen Services n
Services and support for teenagers
Help provide a "cool' and loving
environment for teens to get help.
Greeters _!
Greet & help guests on the day of
the event. You will also walk each
guest to their first destination in
this event. This is a wonderful time
to be a blessing and a comfort.
Personal Kits
Put together and hand
out personal kits for
men, women, and kids.
Floating
Volunteer
This opportunity is for
those living on the
edge! Be willing to be
assigned anywhere
during the event!
Food 1
Help serve food, and bus the
tables for guests. Visit with
guests as they eat and rest,
Outreach
Get the word out to those who
need to come to or to knov,
about this event via: email: ,
posting flyers in the
community, at churches, a' id
in the community.
Project Homeless Connect 2007 Budget
Reciepts Payable Anticipated Actual
Hooker Creek Event Center
Food and Water for Guests
Printing Costs
Postage and Mailing Services
Prescription Assistance
Guest Transportation to and from event
Medical Supplies/First Aid Kits
Personal Kits
Media Ads and Paid Advertisements
Housing Assistance
United Way Administration Fee
Volunteer T -Shirts
$7,500.00
$4,000.00
$500.00
$1,900.00
$2,000.00
$1,000.00
$2,500.00
$4,000.00
$2,000.00
$0.00
$0.00
$2,500.00
$7,078.71
$2,580.17
$2,787.30
$2,392.94
$289.67
$828.00
$200.00
$649.00
$2,846.00
$10,000.00
$1,843.00
$2,736.75
$421.29
$1,419.83
-$2,287.30
- $492.94
$1,710.33
$172.00
$2,300.00
$3,351.00
- $846.00
$10,000.00
-$1,843.00
- $236.75
Total Expenses $27,900.00 $34,231.54
Total Amount Raised $25,000.00 $38,870.00 $13,870.00
Project Homeless Connect 2008 Budget
Reciepts Payable Anticipated Actual
/-
Hooker Creek Event Center
Food and Water for Guests
Printing Costs
Postage and Mailing Services
Prescription Assistance
Guest Transportation to and from event
Medical Supplies/First Aid Kits
Personal Kits
Media Ads and Paid Advertisements
Housing Assistance
United Way Administration Fee
Volunteer T -Shirts
$7,500.00
$3,000.00
$1,500.00
$2,800.00
$2,000.00
$900.00
$1,000.00
$2,000.00
$2,500.00
$15,000.00
$2,000.00
$2,800.00
Total Expenses $43,000.00
Nine Root Causes of Poverty
1. Fa y History of Poverty
Those who are born to poor families are most at risk to remain poor and raise children who live in poverty. Among the
detrimental, cyclically learned behaviors of concern are: weak parenting skills; lowered emphasis on education; poor self-
esteem; physical and emotional abuse; substance abuse; weak literacy skills; lowered expectations in relationships and
work experiences; weak financial management skills; poor health and nutrition practices; etc.
2. Chronic Poverty
This can be due to physical disabilities, mental impairment, seniors who outlive their resources, or substance abuse.
3. Limited Economic Opportunity
This can be more challenging when living in rural areas, or areas where the majority of the employers are paying
minimum wage.
4. Marginal Educational Training Opportunities
There is a lack of suitable education and/or training programs designed to deliver training when it is needed, where it is
needed and linked to opportunities to convert such training into employment and income.
5. Racial/Cultural Isolation and Discrimination
In Oregon disproportionate numbers of Hispanics (27%), African Americans (25%) and Native Americans (29.4%) Five
below the poverty level. The statewide poverty rate is 12.4%. Discrimination and isolation take many forms, each one
creating additional barriers to self-sufficiency for those of other cultures.
6. Weak Family Structures
High levels of internal family strife, illegitimate children, deprivation of family love and support, inconsistent pareruting, a
lack of parental supervision/discipline; failure at school by children; substance abuse, families abandoned by fathers, weak
or poor maternal bonding when a child is young, etc
7. Weak traditions of Civic Engagement and Limited Social Capital
Low awareness among the poor of how to successfully access, influence, and relate to traditional media and governmental
institutions is a sign that social capital is limited. The absence of the poor in community decision making processes
signifies the need for increased levels of civic engagement. Social capital can be briefly defined a the non -monetary
interactions and connections that add to the lives of individuals and communities. These include trust, good will,
fellowship, social interactions, and community involvement.
8. Limited Community Awareness and Inclusiveness
The lack of community awareness of the realities, make-up, and challenges of local poverty preclude some local so utions
that might be possible.
9. Catastrophic Life Events
Either the individual catastrophic event or a cascade of events can lead to poverty. In Deschutes County alone over
36, 000 people do not have medical insurance. The loss of a job or even a short lay-off can have financially deva stating
effects. Divorce is also a major contributor to poverty.
What We All Can Do To Help Those Caught in Poverty
Action leads to change.
Real change, at both the personal and systems level, is most likely to occur through person to person contact, neighbor to
neighbor, and community to community based contact and solutions.
Systems level changes
The environment for actions requires support systems to be in place, allowing those who want a better job to improve their
job skills, for instance. Another example is: for single mothers, quality daycare may be an essential requisite for holding a
steady job.
Personal level change
Many caught in poverty's cycles have lost hope. Hope can be rekindled. If we expect individuals to make changes in their
lives, we must ensure systems and support are in place. Truly transformational solutions require involvement and
participation by people from all ages and walks of life, including those who:
➢ deliver services to those most in need
➢ bring resources to the effort, but have not been involved in poverty reduction before (i.e.: the business
community, and volunteers)
➢ are living in poverty, or have personally experienced poverty.
Projects such as "Project Homeless Connect" help to bring the community and individuals
together. As a component of the Regional 10 year Strategy to End Homelessness, it raises
community awareness about the realities of poverty. Real solutions are delivered and
formulated during the event through ongoing contact between those who most need help and
those who can help.
dpi
PROJECT
COHNNtCT
Join us on Saturday, October 11, 2008,
Hooker Creek Event Center at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center,
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
For more information on volunteering, donating, or attending,
call: 541-504-1389,
cindy@partnershiptoendpoverty.org
CO -TITLE SPONSOR: Partnership To End Poverty
PARTNERSHIP
TO END POVERTY
Project Homeless Connect
Final Report
October 13, 2007
Hooker Creek Event Center
at the
Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
PROJ ELT
CONN[CT
We acknowledge the generous donors, sponsors, partners, and volunteers throughout Deschutes,
Jefferson, and Crook Counties. They made a commitment to a new visionary project that has had
great results across the nation. Our project was the first in the nation to incorporate several towns
and counties into one Project Homeless Connect. Tri -county guest transportation was provided
throughout a rural area where only one town (Bend) had public transportation. By leveraging the
efforts of our entire region we created a vehicle to cooperatively help thousands of people,
engage entire communities, and launch our 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness.
FRO] EC1
CONN�CI
"It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is shaped. Each
time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out
against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million
different centers of energy and daring; those ripples build a current that can sweep down
the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance. "
Robert Francis Kennedy
2
Project Homeless Connect Final Report
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Project Teams 4
List of Services 5
Event Map 6
Fiscal Report 7
The Numbers 8
Event Guest Survey Introduction 14
Event Guest Survey Form 15
Event Guest Demographics 16
Event Guest Survey Answers 17
Vendor(Partner Survey Results 24
Review 29
3
Project Teams
The following individuals may be contacted for information concerning the planning, organization, and set up
of Project Homeless Connect.
Team
Project Manager
Leadership Team
Leadership Team
Leadership Team
Team Leads
Administration
Logistics
Child/Teen
Enrichment
Dental
Food Food
Fundraising
Housing
Media/PR
Medical
Mental
Health/Addictions
Opening Ceremony
Music
Personal Attention
Personal Kits
Social Services
Survival
Transportation
Volunteers
Name
Cindy Pasko
Suzanne
Reininger
John Livingston
Nicki Mehta
1 Cindy Pasko
Woody
Medeiros
Debbie
Stumbaugh
Steve Murray
Marcella
Edmonds
Larry Kugovsek
Dina Barker
Louis Golden
Kelly Fisher
Renee
Davidson
Racheal Baker
Sarah Elliott
Chuck
Hemmingway
Ramy Louis
Nicole Roberts
Deborah Vanni
Loomis Goode
Karren Ruesing
Heather Voris
Jan Whitney
Sheila Pyott
Company/Organization
The Partnership to End Poverty
Homeless Leadership Council
Co-chair
Homeless Leadership Council
Co-chair
Neighbor Impact
The Partnership to End Poverty
The Partnership to End Poverty
Grandma's House
Northwest Medical Teams
Neighbor Impact
St. Vincent de Paul
Southwick Specialty Advertising
Housing Works
Housing Works
Grassroots PR
Legal Aid
Deschutes County Mental Health
Cascade Youth and Family
The Life Center
Full Circle Outreach
Pregnancy Resource Center
Compassion Ministries
Department of Human Services
Bethlehem Inn
Habitat for Humanity
Contact Information
541-504-1389
cindy.pasko(c_t,copartnership
541-390-3433
srein(bendbroadband.coin
541-317-1141
johnl@neighborimpact.org
541-504-1389
nicki.mehta@copartnership
541-504-1389
cindv.pasko(iv,copartnership
541-410-6220
dstumbaugh imedicalteams org
stevem( neighborimpact.org
541-447-7662
541-390-1351
541-408-7991
dinabarker(c hughes.net
lgolden(cuhousing works.org
kfisher@housing-works.org
541-350-3525
rebeeAgrassrootspr. co m
541-385-6950
Racheal.baker@lasoregon.org
541-3173153
sarahe@co.deschutes.or.us
541-408-3592
hemmingwaych(a bendnet.com
541-420-2228
robertsinredmo nd@yaho o. com
www.prcco.org
541-318-0414
lgoode Qiwestsidechurch.org
541-388-6317
Karren.ruesing custate.or. us
541-389-2820
sandr_a_ m wbendbroadband.com
541-385-0122
541-385-5387 ext. 225
spyottc? bendhabitat.org
4
Project Homeless Connect List of Services
Alcohol/Drug/Substance Abuse
Books, free
Child Care and Children's Services
Child Support —Support Enforcement
Cold Weather Survival Skills
Cooking Tips and Instructions
Dental and Dental Education
Developmental Assessments
Diabetes Testing
Disability and Vocational Rehab
Domestic Violence
Education
Employment, Employers, and Work Training
EMT -Emergency Medical
Exit Interviews
Eye Exams/Glasses, Referrals
Family Planning
Family Resources
Financial Information/Free Credit Check
Food Stamps
Guides
Haircuts
HIV/Hep C Testing
Housing/Rental/Repair
ID/Driver's License
Immunizations -Adult
Info -Lost and Found
Legal Assistance
Medicaid
Mental Health
Needle Exchange
Pet Care
Photography -family or individual photos
Prescription Assistance
Psychiatric
Rental Assistance
Self -Development
Senior Services
Social Security and SST/SSD
Social Services Resources
TANF
Teen Services and Resources
Translation
Transportation
Veteran's Services
Utility Assistance
WIC
Mental Health
Deschutes County Library Van — Outside
Child Area
Social Services
Survival
Survival
Dental
Child Area
Medical
Social Services
Social Services
Social Services
Social Services
Medical
Exit Area
Medical
Social Services
Social Services
Housing
Social Services
Information Tables
Personal Attention
Medical
Housing
Social Services
Medical
Information Tables
Social Services
Social Services
Mental Health
Medical
Veterinary
Personal Care
Social Services
Mental Health
Housing
Social Services
Social Services
Social Services
Social Services
Social Services
Teen Area
Information Table
Information Table
Social Services
Social Services and Housing
Social Services
5
[1]" "
Welcome
Check Out/Personal Kits
(
Exit Dental
Interviews
o•
0.
Phone Calls
Ci)
0
0
Mental Healt
Medical
Personal Atte itioli Housing Services
1
6
Project Homeless Connect Fiscal Report
United
Way
United Way
of Deschutes County
The fiscal agent for Project Homeless Connect was Deschutes County United Way. All donations to this
project were and are tax deductible. We would like to acknowledge the generous donors and sponsors
faith in us. They made a commitment to a new visionary project trusting in the result.
When planning this event our team had a spirited discussion about how to fund the effort. We came to a
consensus that we wanted this to be a "grass roots" effort. We weren't sure if there would be enough
support, but we wanted this event to be a "people's event". So we began our fundraising campaign with a
direct mailing. We received over $2,500! Then we moved on to invite the participation of businesses,
government, and organizations. The sponsorship participation is listed below.
Ten thousand dollars of the money raised has been set aside to provide direct shelter and housing
assistance to regional families. The money will be awarded through a grant process administered by a
panel of five community services leaders.
Company Donation
Anonymous $ 10,000.00
Central Oregon Partnership $ 7,500.00
SELCO Community Credit Union $ 3,000.00
Deschutes County Oregon $ 3,000.00
Anonymous $ 1,000.00
Pahlisch Homes $ 1,000.00
Oasis Christian Fellowship $ 1,000.00
Diocese of Baker $ 1,000.00
Hooker Creek Companies, LLC $ 750.00
Cascade Healthcare Community $ 750.00
Tykeson Family Charitable Trust $ 500.00
Anonymous $ 250.00
Southwick Specialty Advertising $ 250.00
Sun Forest Construction $ 250.00
Anonymous $ 250.00
Mt. Bachelor Rotary Club $ 250.00
Anonymous $ 250.00
$31,000.00
In -Kind Donations
Combined Communications Inc. $ 5,000.00
Grassroots PR $ 3,000.00
Key Creatives $ 3,440.00
Ad Hock $ 500.00
The Source $ 763.75
Juniper Paper & Supply Co. $ 750.00
Pronghorn $ 400.00
Southwick Specialty Advertising $ 350.00
Blink Photography $ 500.00
$14,703.75
7
The Numbers
Poverty Indicators:
According to the percent of students who qualified for free or reduced lunch in 2005, poverty
rates for Deshutes County averaged 31.8%, Jefferson county 75.2%, and Crook County averaged
48.5%. To qualify, a child's family must be low income.
Volunteers
Over 500 volunteers made this event possible. Children age 8 and older worked the entire event.
Church groups, associations, families, youth groups, business employees, and seniors all worked
hand-in-hand to make the event work smoothly and to make the environment warm and caring.
Ten volunteers who worked several hours apiece on the event day were homeless themselves.
Guests
1200 Guests, 600 of whom were children
Service Providers:
Over 140 organizations, businesses and agencies offered services and provisions for this event.
Partners
246 agencies, businesses, government entities, individuals, organizations, and schools worked
together to bring this event to success.
Recycled
Over three car loads of bottles and recyclables were removed to be recycled rather than put into
our landfill. Several boxes of paper were also recycled.
Left over food was given to local food kitchens in Redmond, Prineville, and Bend.
Contributions
• $36,245 in cash was donated
• $13, 803.75 of in-kind donations over $350 in value
• 4,000 hours of volunteer time was invested in the event day alone
• 650 hours of volunteer time was donated to the event set up
• 3,800 hours of volunteer time was spent in the planning and preparation of this event
• Over 8,450 TOTAL VOLUNTEER TIME
8
The Numbers, Continued
Transportation
FREE Transportation was provided to and from the event from towns and homeless camps in
Jefferson, Crook and Deschutes counties including the towns of: La Pine, Madras, Sisters,
Prineville, Sunriver, and Bend.
Volunteers drove guests either to and from the pre-set transportation hubs or straight to the event
depending on the distance. Church vans, school buses, shuttles, organization and private vans,
and the Bend Area Transit system were all utilized. Most guests were able to car pool or
otherwise provide their own transportation. Volunteers shuttled people in a golf cart to and from
the parking area.
• 192 event guests utilized the free transportation system provided. The break down by
areas is as follows:
La Pine - 9
Redmond - 4
Prineville - 15
Madras - 20
Warm springs - 3
Sisters - 1
Bend - 140
Almost 100 types of services were provided and they included:
Dental
• 128 people (seven who were children) were treated by the dentist, of that, 121 were
adults and seven were children
• 36 extractions
• 8 restorative procedures
• 75 attended Dental education workshops
• Several guest received referrals to free or sliding scale dentistry
Children and Families
• 600 children were served in the child area with health screenings, educational assistance,
child care referral, and child enrichment.
• 30 teens who visited the teen area for services, visited and "hung out".
• 14 parents of teens received information about services for their children.
9
The Numbers, Continued
Medical
• 132 people received medical treatment
• 37 medical screenings, of those 16 had a consultation with the volunteer doctors.
• 9 guests received prescriptions.
• 1 woman transported to emergency room of the local hospital
• 15 guests were given vision screenings and then referred to a local specialist for a
thorough examination and then, if appropriate, the Lions paid for the eyewear .
• 1 guest from Madras had cataracts and was referred to the Lion's Club for potential grant
to have the surgery.
• Hepatitis C screens - 4
• HIV tests — 8
• Adult immunizations:
• 30 received TwinRix (Hepatitis A & B combined vaccine),
• 23 received Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
• Vaccine vouchers: 60 adult, 15 children ( these vouchers are redeemable at Deschutes,
Crook and Jefferson County Health Departments for needed vaccines as well as the Flu
vaccine)
• Referral to Breast and Cervical Cancer program: 1
• Family Planning consultation: 2
• Pregnancy tests: 2
• Safer sex kits:15
• 3 pregnancy tests were administered, 2 negative, 1 positive
• 4 guests received birth control prescriptions
• 2 guests received pre -natal assessments and referrals
• Over 100 guests received referral to free or sliding scale medical help
Education
• 22 kids made connections for entry into college
• 1 teen signed up for completion of high school diploma (GED)
• 500 volunteers learned about our community services and the barriers faced by the poor
Employment
• 25 guests signed up for paid on-the-job training
10
The Numbers, Continued
Food
• 1200 meals were provided through "Cafe Connect" (menu: scrambled eggs, sausage,
bacon, fresh cut fruit, fresh whole fruit, bagels, pork loin, seasoned potato wedges, mixed
cooked vegetables, spaghetti, grated cheese, muffins, cookies, juice, coffee, iced tea,
pop, bottled water.
• 168 emergency food boxes were handed out
• An important part of the event was the cafe environment that was provided. Each table
had colorful table clothes and the table decorations were made by a small group of senior
and disabled. Over one hundred volunteers washed dishes, bused the table, served food,
and visited with the guests.
Financial
• 26 guests signed up for classes that lead to financial self- development and grants for
projects resulting in long-term changes in their lives and communities.
• 32 guests received free credit reports and credit counseling
• 200 guest completed surveys for information about low-income credit union membership
Basic Needs
• 40 bike locks were given out
• 23 bikes serviced
• 2 bikes had brakes installed
• Outdoor Survival Classes/Cooking and Nutrition classes/Free gift items -563
• 59 Sleeping bags were given
• 4 mats were given away
• 8 bedding bags were given away
• 15 personal tarps were given away
• 30 pots and pans for outdoor cooking were given away
Survival
• 34 guests received information on frost bite prevention and treatment
• 22 guests received information on safe crock pot cooking
Personal Services
• 40 battery and rape contacts
• 30 guests accessed mental health services
• 6 guests utilized crises counseling during the event
11
The Numbers, Continued
Housing and Utilities
• 350 guests accessed the housing services
• 37 contacts for rental assistance
• $2, 156 in rental assistance given
• 17 contacts for utility assistance
• $900 in utility assistance was given
• 10 families added to winter utility assistance list
• 18 contacts for motel assistance
• 24 contacts for emergency housing assistance
• 18 families inquired about Habitat for Humanity, several were qualified and filled out
applications
• One family living in car inquired about Section 8
• Several single pregnant women inquired about housing
• Several elderly homeless women inquired as to housing
• Family of four living in motel and out of money inquired about housing
Benefits
• 38 Social Security contacts
• 25 Education/Disabilities applications/consultations
• 59 people received legal aid services
• 50 people received information about the House of Hope, a long term group home with
support systems and basic life skills training and a family atmosphere.
• Transportation was also provided for participants from the Fair Grounds to the local
Redmond DHS SSP office so they could have an EBT card issued to access any benefits
they may be deteiniined eligible for from applications filed the day of PHC. Eight
participants were transported for this purpose.
• Several had their own transportation and drove themselves to the Redmond SSP office to
have an EBT card issued.
• Approximately 58 DHS Self Sufficiency Program Contacts. Applications were accepted
on site for food stamps, medical, day care and cash help. The majority of help requested
was for food stamp benefits. (This number does not include those who were assisted by
DHS Senior and People w/Disabilities.)
• Several Veterans were helped with veteran's benefits, and other supporting services
advocacy.
• Several of the participants had already completed applications and filed them with the
local branch and were waiting for their intake appointment. Per participant preference,
instead of returning to the branch at a later date to complete an intake appointment for
these application already filed at the branch, and to avoid completing a 2nd application at
the Fair Grounds, a worker was able to meet them at the local branch and process these
applications.
12
The Numbers, Continued
Hospitality
• 72 haircuts for children and adults
• 1,782 hygiene kits were handed out
• 220 guests received maps
• 4 guests received toaster ovens
• 4 guests received waffle irons/griddles/skillets
• 4 guests received George Foreman grills
• 74 hot hand packets (Hotties) were given away
• 1 guest received a framed hiking back pack
• 1 guest received a new metal frame cot
• Over 300 items of clothing were given away
• Several guests received Waterproofing spray
• Several guests received First aid items
• 71 dogs, 10 cats and 1 parakeet received veterinary care
• 25 had referral for low cost spay and neuter services
• Several guests were able to make free phone calls to their friends and family
• 100 children received new coloring books and crayons
• 300 children received new books to practice reading and develop their love of books
• 38 guests received beautiful hand made quilts and blankets
• 20 guests received thick hand made crocheted hats
• 200 guests received business directories
We think you'll agree with us, that this was a great beginning. The real story wasn't in the
numbers. It was in the lives changed, the involvement and education of the community, and in the
ways we all work together to help each other.
13
Event Guest Survey Introduction
For this event we set up an Exit Area staffed by volunteers to help our guests complete a
short survey upon leaving the event. The purpose was to evaluate how well we did in
getting people to the event, the types of services that were accessed and/or needed, and to
get feedback on the event itself.
Not all questions on the surveys were answered. Because of this, and because of the limited
amount of people completing the survey, very few solid conclusions may extrapolated from any
portion of this data, The survey wasn't designed to provide profiles of poverty, but rather to
establish a baseline for the progress of our efforts.
Of 1200 guests, 195 took the time to complete a survey. This is roughly 32% of the adults who
attended the event. Portland and Lane County Projects have also struggled with getting a good
percentage of feedback from their guests. Portland has computerized their exit interview process
and has increased their overall survey return rate.
We have several changes we will be making to the surveys and the survey process for our next
event, including making the exit interviews easier and the process more inviting.
14
C
Client: First
Town or area
2007 PROJECT HOMELESS GUEST SERVICE SURVEY
PET? ❑ YES ❑ NO
Gender
Age
Marital Status
Dependents
Male ❑ Female❑
❑ 17 & Under ❑ 55-64
❑ 18-25 ❑ 65 & Above
❑ 26-54
❑Single
❑ Married
Partner
❑ Did you bring your children
today? ❑ Yes : No
How many?
❑Pregnant? ❑ Yes ❑ No
Due Date
Are you currently in a shelter?
Currently renting? [ i YESI
Currently sleeping indoors
Currently living on the street
Other
CURRENT HOUSING/SHELTER SITUATION
there?
Current Placement How long
! NO Currently living with another family or families? CL YES I: NO
other than in a shelter. Motel I Friend's i; Family Li Camper/RV/Motor home Li
in the woods or abandoned building? L YES I I NO
If Homeless, how long ? What led to your homelessness?
Full time [ 1 Part time i
ARE YOU CURRENLTY EMPLOYED?
SSI/SSD L1 Injured 1 i
Two or more jobs' i Unemployed
I_ How long?
[ 1 YES I_ I NO
If you have children here today,
DO YOU HAVE HEALTH INSURANCE?
are they insured? '_l YES h NO
Did the guest receive any
ADMINISTRATIVE USE ONLY
what areas below.
referrals or appointments today? If so, please ask them for
❑ Dental
❑ Food Stamps/WIC
❑ Identification
❑ Medical
0 Mental Health
0 Other Health
0 SSI/SSDI Advocacy
0 Substance Abuse
0 Veterans Benefits
❑ Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
0 Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
0 Appt./Referral
O Employment Services
O Housing Counsel
O Legal
0 Pregnancy
O Shelter Info/Res.
O Teen Services
0 Training/Education
O Veterinary
Other
0 Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
0 Appt./Referral
0 Appt./Referral
❑ Appt./Referral
0 Appt./Referral
15
Demographics of Clients Surveyed
Residential area
Those who filled out the surveys came from the following Central Oregon towns:
Ninety five percent of survey takers designated where they lived.
La Pine 7
Sisters 3
Metolius 3
Culver 1
Terrebonne 5
Warm Springs 2
Redmond 36
Prineville 21
Madras -12
Bend -95
Sunriver 1
Gender
One hundred percent of survey takers designated their gender.
Males: 93
Female 102
Age
One Hundred percent of those surveyed designated their age bracket.
17 years old and under3
18 thorough 25 years o1d25
26-54 years old 145
55-64 years old 13
65 years old and above 9 (of those, 4 are women)
Marital Status
One hundred percent of those surveyed designated their marital status and considered living
partner status.
109 were single (including divorced, widowed or separated)
55 were married
31 had partners
Children
Adult survey takers indicated they brought 99 children to the event.
Only 88 children were listed by the parent or guardian.
62% of the children had health insurance, 38% did NOT have health insurance.
Pregnancy
Five of the survey takers stated they were pregnant.
16
Current Housing/Shelter Situation
Six respondents were living in local shelters.
The shelters included House of Hope, Bethlehem Inn, Housing Works and other shelter and
transitional housings. Most of those surveyed stated they had lived for an average of 5 months in
their current shelter
Renting
46% of those surveyed rented their own apartment or house. Of those, seven believed
homelessness was imminent due to eviction from sale of home, or lack of ability to pay rent.
Home ownership
6 respondents owned their own home with 4 of those being Habitat for Humanity Homes.
Homelessness
9 were renting motel rooms often with other families
9 were staying with friends.
25 (12%) were living in campers, RV, motor homes
5 were living in their car
17 (8%) were living with their family. This included singles as well as entire families.
7 were living on the streets, in the woods in abandoned buildings, motor homes.
One of these was a married woman who became pregnant, left or was abandoned by her
husband, lost her job, has been homeless for one month and has no health insurance.
Of those who self -declared they were homeless, the amount of time they were homeless varied
anywhere from one week to 30 years. The average length of homelessness, if homeless over one
year, was 2.1 years. If they had been homeless for under one year, the average length of time
homeless was 3.3 months, if homeless under one month, 2.4 weeks.
When asked what led to homelessness the answers were:
"...Got laid off, can't get job."
"Health problems, short of cash."
"Violence."
"Divorce."
"Injured."
The list also included: severe family problems, displaced mill worker, legal issues resulting in
loss of house, disability dispute with workman's comp, got disabled with no social security, wife
died, loss of job, alcoholism, bad choices, motor home in too bad condition to get into a park (65
year old man), lack of work because of criminal history.
Employment
39 indicated they were employed full time
17 guests were injured, had long term illness (leukemia), or were on medical leave
5 workes two or more jobs, one gentleman worked a full time and a part time job, 1 guest
worked three part time jobs.
32 worked part time
57 were unemployed. This includes 4 guests who were retired,
10 were retired
4 were injured and waiting for SSD
21 were on SSI/SSD
1 was a full time student
17
Health Insurance
Of the adult respondents:
79 adults had health insurance, 108 did not have health insurance.
Children and Health Insurance
55 children had health insurance
33 children did NOT have health insurance.
Guests accessed the following services at Project Homeless Connect:
Dental - 58
Employment Services 13
Food stamps - 13
Housing Services - 62
ID -8
Legal Services - 13
Medical - 37
Mental Heath - 17
Other Health (including optometry) - 14
Pregnancy Services - 4
Shelter Info Resources - 9
SSI/SSD advocacy - 7
Substance abuse - 7
Teen Resources - 7
Training/Education Services - 5
Veteran's Benefits - 6
Veterinary Services - 12
Other services the guests listed as accessed were:
Family Access Network, personal services, clothing, propane help, food, books, three accessed
glasses, eye exams, credit report, low income credit union, small business grants, haircuts, lunch,
activities for children, utility cash assistance, and Alanon.
Following are the answers to the questions on the back page of the survey. Often the guests made
the similar comments over and over. If that was the case we listed only one. We have included
most of the answers and comments.
18
1. Did you get the services you hoped for today?
108 guests simply, "Yes.', with no comment.
"Yes. I wanted to talk to someone about getting utilities help. Especially a phone in home to be a daycare
provider. I got this help."
"Yes. Referral for teeth. Four crowns had broken off"
"More than I expected."
"Yes, but hoping for more job listed available now."
"Yes, with dental. Thank you!"
"Yes, but was hoping for immediate medical attention for hurt toe. Got a referral was plesed with that."
The rest of the respondents left the space blank, answered "NO ", or took the time to write or
transcribe the below comments to the exit area volunteers.
"Wanted more housing and employment info."
"She really needed vision help."
"Mostly."
"No, dental and vision were closed or full."
"No. --- and --- (employment agencies) didn't show up."
"No. Wanted maternity clothing."
"No cleaning for dental."
"Not dental."
"All except for vision. Was closed."
"Housing was very vague. I had hoped for more."
"Not much housing for Madras."
"No, needed glasses and dental."
"Dentist too full for service."
"Not so far.."
"Not dental...too many people."
"Partially."
"Kind ofbut no dental."
"No. Needed help with low cost housing rental."
"No. Hoped to get dental check. Too busy."
2. Was there anything missing that you believe would have helped you?
"Vision services."
"Employment booth."
"Looking for apprenticeship."
"Referral for medical help other than just the basics."
"Same old story."
"Have this once a month would like more help for homeless in Redmond."
"Finding part time employment."
"Money for deposit on house."
"Chapter books for older children."
"Employment info and help."
"Vocational rehab that works for homeless."
"Health insurance booth and OHP and Oregon Insurance pool."
"Church presence."
"The people were wonderful. There is not much you can do to help someone who will not help
themselves."
"A job, a phone, and gas voucher."
"More dentists."
"More vets and veterinary supplies."
"Affordable housing."
"Have tents available."
19
3. What are the barriers that you are facing?
"Boyfriend chronically ill. No Insurance. Possibly cancer. 27 years old. Size 38 pants to 32 pants in 6
weeks." They expressed that they cannot find any medical help that he qualifies for.
"Employment."
"Seaswirl. Worked until it closed. Took awhile to find new job causing to fall behind on utilities."
"Being on OHP limits services. Get denied often. Had hoped for that here."
"Living in a motel, pay so much for room that can't save money to get a new place.
"Getting health care."
"Affordable housing." Several guests listed this.
"Showers —especially for job interviews."
"Help with dentures."
"Getting enough money to get tires."
"Getting a disabled ready house."
"The cost of gas."
"Education and health education."
"No care insurance."
"Getting a prescription."
"Living with alcoholics. Scary sometimes. Signed up for HUD."
"Living with another family."
"Not being able to work -no license."
"Getting daycare during school."
"Bad back."
"Job skills to adapt to high tech environment."
"Health."
"About seven years ago, lost everything because she got sick and he lost his job."
"Mental Health."
"Housing costs, not enough money left over for food, gas."
"A safe place to park. No services if have pets."
"Hard to look for work when no showers or laundry."
"Place to live that's affordable. Lived in Bend for 28 years."
"Society based on money."
"No glasses. No job."
"Teeth!"
Many guests listed getting a "deposit for a house". Obtaining deposit money is a tremendous
barrier for many families, because we live in an area where deposits can run from $500-$1200
for a median level rental. Often it is required to pay first and last month's rent, plus a deposit.
20
4. How did you hear about Project Homeless Connect?
"How did 1 not hear about it? Radio, TV, Round Up, all over the place -announcement at Brown
Bag. "
"Friends" and "family" were listed more than any other single source.
Below is the list of responses given by the guests.
At a church dinner
BAT bus
Bear Creek Elementary
Becky Johnson Center, friends.
Bend Community Center
Bethlehem Inn
Bus driver
CASA
Church
Clear 101.7
COIC Redmond
Community Clinic
Co-worker
DHS
Doctor office
Dual Diagnosis
Family Kitchen
Flier at CORIL office
Flyer
Flyer at grocery store
Friend's Church in Metolius
Friends
From everyone in Bend
Full Circle outreach
Full Circle Outreach
Headstart
Healy Heights
House of Hope
Jericho Road
Jim Dunn (vets)
Mother
Neighbor Impact
Network
Newspaper
Oasis in Prineville
Oasis soup kitchen
One of the fathers I baby sit for
Parole Officer
Pastor at Foursquare church
Police officer gave them a flyer
Poster at employment agency
Radio
Ready Set Go
Shepherd's House
Sisters school
Social Worker
St. Vincent
T.V.
Tent service
La Pine Elementary
Landlord
Mental Health Department
Terrebonne Community Church
The police
The Source
Through work
WIC office (in Spanish)
Wife
Word of mouth
Z21 news
5. Would you come again if we held this next year?
One hundred sixty nine guests simply wrote, "Yes." Four simply wrote, "No." Six wrote
variations of "Maybe." The rest of the guests left the space blank. Their stated reasons follow.
21
6. Why? (Would you come again if we held this next year?)
"Because at least this is trying to offer some hope and some help to those who need it."
"It's useful. Really!"
"Like the atmosphere."
"I know it's here."
'To be able to have everyone in one place so you don't have to travel all around from place to place."
"Things available here are easier when grouped like this and transportation."
"Possibly -but
"Everyone was friendly and helpful. Great experience... got help with dental, doctor, prescription, flu
shot."
"For the resources. Maybe to volunteer at a booth for Jefferson County."
"I got the assistance I needed."
"Maybe to help out."
"A lot of resources and information."
"Provided good resources."
"Services we need."
"Helpful being around people."
"Many needed services all in one area."
"Looking and learning about available services."
"Helps people out."
"We need the information and services."
"Excellent resources available all in one place."
"Hoping for more resources."
"Want to see this process."
"See how things have grown. Volunteer if possible."
"Friendly people."
"This was a good thing. Kelps a lot of people that without would not know what to do."
"Helps a lot. Good advice for camping."
7. Is there anything that you would like to say or comment on?
Don't stop doing this. It is very needed. Thank you for caring."
"Central Oregon caring people. "Grass Roots" people care."
"Great for community."
"Very polite. Been nice."
"It was too cold."
"This was a great thing. This is what it is all about."
"Volunteers were awesome and helpful."
"Great from start to finish."
"Wonderful. Good program."
"This is a nice resource. More helpful this way."
"Was a very helpful and informative day with a lot of very nice people. Thank you all."
"Thanks for helping."
"Excellent for first year. Good to have so many volunteers."
"I would have never thought about putting something like together and I feel you all went above and
beyond the call of duty."
"A lot of the help was short-term, more people need long-term help, possibly counseling."
"Thank you all involved in making this event happen. Well done!'
"Parking -would like more shuttles carts to arena so wife won't have to walk so far."
"Wow! Interesting to see everything is in place. Community!"
"Well put together. Organization."
"Thanks. Bring a second dental truck."
"Appreciated the effort this took and the help. A definite help."
"Glad we were here today. Yay for vets!"
"Need more job training."
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Answers to question # 7 continued
"Need someone to show me where to go when I came in."
""Central Oregon needs this. Needs to grow."
"Where are the employment people?"
"It's good everyone got together to help all of us who are in this position."
"Not what I was expecting -though somewhat helpful."
"Make the flyers clearer."
"Surprised how many volunteers are here. Number of volunteers blew me away. Tearjerker."
"I have exhausted all avenues for help and I probably would have been just as well of if I had
gone to Ashley's. At least 1 would have had a chance, however remote, to better my position. It's
business as usual -sorry, but get lost."
On this last note —man of the guests commented on the fantastic band, the wonderfid food, the
nice people, and the help they received. There were very few comments about what went wrong,
what wasn't there that could have been, or other critical comments. We expected that there
would be more criticism from the guests, because WE knew about our mistakes, the services we
weren 't able to provide, and the great needs of so many people in our area. The gentleman who
wrote the above comment came to get his dentures fixed and we were not able to provide that for
him. His comment mirrors the truth of our society. Too many people fall through the cracks.
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Project Homeless Connect Vendor (Partner) Survey 2007
This report is based on a survey that was distributed to most of the participating agencies and organizations that
provided services at the October 13, 2007 Project Homeless Connect. Each question and the answer corresponds
with the question and answer on the survey. Surveys were handed to vendors as they checked in on the day before
the event. he vendors didn't check in until event day, we attempted to hand them hard copy surveys or send the survey
via email. However, we were unable to get surveys to every organization that participated.
For the next event, we will have a different process for the delivery and return of the survey. That having been said,
we captured surveys from roughly 50% of the participating agencies and organizations who offered direct medical,
dental, or social services.
There were multiple questions that respondents left blank. Where multiple respondents made the same or similar
comment, we listed one comment that seemed representative. We included their answers and comments, when made,
because they are so insightful. The survey questions are listed with the answers in bold type.
1. Do you believe that you have made new working partnerships through participating in this event? How so?
Eighty one percent said that they did make new working partnerships. Ten percent said they didn't, five
percent gave no answer, and four percent were not sure.
• One respondent answered: "We already worked with other agencies, but the event made it
possible to connect in person with other people we might not have met otherwise.
• One of the respondents who answered "no" said, "Because we were working and really not
networking at the event."
Other comments were:
• "Nothing greater than building together."
• "... just listening to what each vendor had to offer and how they handle the situation (guest
needs) really was educating."
• "There's a wellness conference in the spring that we didn't even know about before this."
• "Yes, but we would like more contact."
• "1 was able to meet in person some partners that we had only spoken with by phone."
2. Because of your participation in this event, can you identify any changes you would like to see happen in
your organization's services?
• "More connection and cooperation with similar organizations."
• "More working partnerships with other services."
• "We can contribute more."
• "I would like to see more funds made available for the Central Oregon, Tri -County area. We
do have a great need to be able to house more families in need. This event proved that."
• "Yes -outreach to the homeless."
• "I would have like to have been involved from the beginning. It seemed last minute because I
was not."
• "I talked to a lot of people. I would like to have some way to follow up, provide more
support."
• "More community outreach. l would like (our organization) to become more involved with
this event next year."
• "Perhaps more awareness to the agencies that various organizations are already working
together with the same clients."
• "More participation from different areas of service leading up to the event, not just "day of".
• "Yes, absolutely -for more "one stop shop"."
• "Our policy on Temporary Housing Assistance could be changed for special
events/circumstances."
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Project Homeless Connect Vendor (Partner) Survey 2007 Continued
3. Do you believe that, as a result of participation in this event, you are better informed of the community
services our communities offer? Why?
Not everyone answered this question. 71% answered "yes". Many were enthusiastic. 15% answered
"somewhat", and 15% answered, "no':
• "1 do for sure, but the older/newer/richer population moving to Bend needs the
understanding."
• "Most definitely, just seeing everyone come to the table, and the really sincere care and
concern that was given by each vendor was great. I gained so much knowledge as to what is
really out there and just how much each vendor is able to give."
• "I am more informed of the lack of services and how many people who truly need help
aren't qualified for any services at all."
• Yes, but there needs to be a continued effort year round to network between services."
• "Yes. It showed us services available to populations we do not routinely serve."
• "Yes. We already were aware of most of the agencies, but after talking with staff, it does 1
help to better keep a clearer outlook on services offered."
• "Somewhat."
• "Yes, good job!"
• "Yes, many [guestslcomplained about not being able to get SSL"
• "Definitely! What a great community project."
• "Yes it was great to see so many people agencies involved."
• "Yes, there were agencies that I wasn't aware of."
4. Do you believe that you now have a better understanding of barriers experienced by those who are
homeless or living in poverty? Why?
Sixty Two percent answered, "Yes." Thirty two percent answered, "No."; and five percent answered,
"Somewhat":
• "Yes, there were so many working families."
• "The difficulties I had in coordinating my services with other agencies services, without
gaps for the guests, showed me that if we didn't realize exactly what services other agencies
offer, and how to qualify clients between us, then how on earth could clients figure out how
to coordinate the services they need?"
• "Yes, and what and eye opener in the area that most of these people just accept their living
situation, would like help and if immediate help was not available, they seemed to have that
extra bit of patience to wait, if needed. I was so impressed with the whole picture. What a
humbling experience."
• I certainly see struggles with the many hurdles -families who struggle to stay together while
meeting even the bare basics. Together we will make the difference as we continue to grow
service outreach that will help the homeless succeed."
• "Yes -someone said they would've had to take several days off from work to be able to find
even a few of these services."
• "Yes, somewhat. I work for DHS and I do have a pretty good idea regarding what is out
there."
• Yes, somewhat. [ would think people with more barriers wouldn't show. But, maybe after
hearing about it will come next year."
• "I have a better understanding that this is a multi -faceted situation/problem."
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Project Homeless Conned Vendor (Partner) Survey 2007 Continued
Answers to Question 4 continued:
• I'm a professional in this field of work, and I didn't know about all of these resources. I also
didn't realize what large gaps in services there are." A lot of people are falling through the
cracks."
• "No, but the nature of our office is that we are always interacting with the targeted
Isamelpopulation as the Project.
• "How would a untrained person know about the services they need, and be able to get to all
of them? Would they have the stamina to go from one to the next trying to qualify?
5. Do you believe that the people that came to this event have had access to adequate services prior to the
event day? Why? The answer to this was predominately, "No". Seventy nine percent said, "No.".
Thirteen percent said, "Yes", and eight percent said, " Some people did "
• "NO, it is hard to access services here that you need. It doesn't matter if you are homeless or
not services you need are hard to come by."
• "No! I believe that there was so much that these people did not know about, and that we
definitely need to continue with this event at least yearly."
• "I don't believe our community has yet found a way to provide appropriate and adequate
services."
• "Probably not. Transportation is too big of a barrier for most."
• "Many were helped with "red tape" situations today."
• "No. there were many services here today that many did not know about."
• "Some. It is hard to say. I think it took a lot of courage to come to this event if were
homeless."
• "Many did not, some knew the system, and there were those that had severe losses who gave
out of their the little they have. It was a mixed group (guests).
• "Not all in one location. They have to know who to go to for the info and that seems to be the
hardest part."
• "No, but we were surprised att the ration of underinsured to actual homeless."
• "In the health care area probably not, if the numbers are indicative of unmet needs."
• "No, this was an important event."
• "Yes -except for housing and the single homeless persons."
• "Certainly a lot of folks were put in touch with new opportunities."
• The answer to this question is, "NO!"
6. What do you identify as the successes of this event?
• "Raising awareness -most people probably didn't think that there were 1500 homeless people
in C.O."
• "I believe that the people who attended felt that there are organizations run by people who
truly care for them and their plight."
• "The coordination of the tri -county area was great."
• "Great information given out. A sense of dignity for the guests. The direct services people
received were the biggest piece.
• "Collaboration of different programs."
• "All organizations working together for the focus of the people."
• "Homeless may have realized that the community cares and that they are too a part of the
community."
"Community awareness and message of caring to those who need help."
• "Centralized services in a single location."
• "Contacts for the poor for services and the networking of service providers."
• "The services received by people attending."
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Project Homeless Connect Vendor (Partner) Survey 2007
Answers to Question 6 continued:
• "Made the homeless and poor aware of the services available in our communities."
• "Community coming together. Everyone helping each other."
• "Opportunity to allow low income people to be "waited on" for a change. Allowed them to
get all their services and information at one place."
• "Number of participants, the commitment from agencies to pull out all the stops, and
visibility."
• "Working together to make it happen."
• "At site services -taking claims for disability and SSI, getting books, haircuts, medical."
• "Free of judgment, greed, hate. It was warm, caring environment from what I saw."
• "Just being able to see these people smile and really enjoy themselves for one day. It was so
moving to see the people moving to music, enjoying warm meals and really telling us their
stories as to how they became homeless and really they never expected it."
• "Connections/support for the needy -building elf -esteem."
• "The turnout of people and volunteers."
• "Awareness of homeless population -respect and concern shown to clients -information and
services specific to their individual needs."
• "Everything -the food was outstanding!
• "Raffles and giveaways were a big hit! The haircuts, the number of volunteers, and
transportation to and from the event."
• "The community involvement."
• "We screened 27 people for eye diseases and visual acuity."
• "It was huge! Nice to see everyone coming together to help others."
• "Observing the people who truly received the love, care and help that they needed.
Observing team work and agencies working together to help a cause and strive to end
homelessness."
7. What would you change about this event and why?
• Some vendors suggested that wheel chairs, golf carts to transport guests from the parking
area, and bags be provided for the guests, especially from child care.
• Several vendors wanted better placement of vendors and a breast feeding/diaper changing
area be added, and "more on —hand supplies".
• Several vendors thought the services in the upper level (mezzanine) needed to be brought
down to the floor and be better organized.
• Some vendors also listed better and more advertising to the poor, and better transportation
to out lying areas, and maps need to include indexing of services.
• One vendor commented that the event should last for two days rather than one. "One day is
not enough to serve as many people as there are out in the community who need these types
of services."
• "More direct services."
8. Will you consider participating in this event if it is held next year? Yes L NoL
Everyone that responded to the survey said that they will participate next year.
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Project Homeless Connect Vendor (Partner) Survey 2007
These are additional vendor comments:
• "More dental services. Stronger capacity building. Have these more often."
• "Because of the large percentage of vets in the homes population, why is the clinic not
integrated with the medical and mental health services?"
• "Get more agencies to participate. Have reliable busing to the agency offices, so that intakes
can be done there so guests can get benefits faster."
• ". One group wanted twice the space, so they could serve more people. Five vendors said,
better communication. Add showers. More time to plan. More job info available.
• "Have gas vouchers available for the folks who had to come on their own, so they aren't
using valuable gas to get to a helpful event such as this."
• "This event showed the great need for a mobile medical unit. Hopefully more medical
providers will volunteer their services next year! Thanks."
• "We, as a community, should continue this project and use it to figure out how to offer a
better model of continuum of care."
• "Many people came with nothing and needed more services."
• "Organizers may need to research providers of services more thoroughly in order to better
place them."
• "Congrats-very hard to pull this off, but well done!"
• "I am already planning on doing this again next year."
• "What a loaded questionnaire!"
• "Good job!"
• "A fantastic beginning to a hopefully annual event. Well done."
• "I would like to know about other Project Homeless Connects around the state?"
• "It was a wonderful event."
• "We are already making plans."
• "What a great turn out. I can hardly wait until next year. Just challenging ourselves to do
more and more."
• "Obviously we need to get poor people more money to live. We must organize for political
action. Create a Dignity Village. Use private homes to house people with intensive case
management."
• "Absolutely, we'll be there."
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Review and Results
In review, the efforts of all of the participants of Project Homeless Connect were highly successful.
However, in retrospect there were many things that could be improved upon. Many organizations that
didn't participate this year have already told us they want to be a part of next year's event.
We carefully reviewed and analyzed every aspect of our project and have identified what worked and
what didn't. We also took into consideration the feedback from the guests, volunteers, and partners.
The following are the changes we have targeted:
Expansion of the dental and medical area along with the addition of free glasses and a denture clinic
The expansion of a financial area that includes:
Earned income tax credit information
IDA —matched savings
Micro Enterprise
Voter Registration
Banking for the "unbankable"
Credit checks and credit counseling
The Social Services section will be greatly expanded and will include employer/employee services,
expanded education, and on the job training pieces. Services will be grouped together in a more effective
manner.
Raffles will still be conducted but will take place upstairs to draw guests upstairs. Signage and other
strategies will be added to assure the ability and desire of the guests to visit the mezzanine level services.
Wireless Internet and cell phone use will be addressed.
The tracking and communication pieces will be upgraded. This includes all phases of communications.
The guest survey system will also be changed.
Veterinary Services need to be expanded throughout the day.
The incredible collaborative efforts set forth by those involved with project Homeless Connect were made
to help individuals and families break out of the cycles of poverty and homelessness. PHC has also been a
spring board to the implementation of a Regional Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness.
If you are interested in participating by providing a service at the next Project Connect
taking place October 11, 2008, please contact Cindy Pasko, Central Oregon Partnership,
at 541-504-1389 or cindy.pasko(a)copartnership.org
You are also invited to attend a Homeless Leadership Council meeting, 8:30 a. m.; the third
Friday of each month; at the Redmond Courthouse; at Deschutes and stn
Project Connect, October 11, 2008, Hooker Creek Event Center at
the Deschutes County Fair and Expo!
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