Tuesday: Annual Event to Help the Homeless

Want to lend a helping hand to Portland's homeless? On Tuesday, hundreds of volunteers and local community service workers will host the 4th annual Portland Homeless Connect event at Memorial Coliseum.

The program will run all day, and begin with preliminary interviews with all homeless participants to size up their current situation and immediate needs - then shift into providing direct services on site, including medical services ranging from chiropractic care, immunizations, HIV & Diabetes testing, to dental and vision services. Legal counselors will be there to offer advice, along with staff to provide information on getting access to affordable housing. Other practical services, like long-distance phone calls, haircuts, veterinary consultations for pets, and a free meal, are among the planned activities.

Coordinator Ruth Benson says that over 900 homeless people showed up for last year's event, and that she expects this year's turnout could well exceed 1,200 people.

The event is co-funded by Multnomah County, the City of Portland, and private donations from a considerable laundry list of local businesses and community organizations. More information is available on Project Homeless Connect's website - where interested parties can also sign up online to volunteer.