Local nonprofit highlights Project Homeless Connect, urges community referrals

Derek Bower, chief executive officer of Hope for All Gulf Coast, told the Mobile County Commission on May 12 that his organization will hold its eleventh annual Project Homeless Connect resource fair and urged commissioners and residents to refer people experiencing homelessness.

“The resources that are available for those that are experiencing homelessness [include] medical assistance, legal assistance,” Bower said. He said state staff will issue IDs at the event and that between 40 and 50 agencies will provide services including housing, job opportunities and other supports. He asked commissioners to attend if possible and thanked the commission for past support.

Bower said the event is “this Thursday” and will run from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. at a location he described as “the grounds.” He said last year’s one-day event served more than 535 people who met the federal definition of homelessness and involved more than 600 volunteers. He also said Hope for All Gulf Coast operates street outreach and a coordinated-entry service and that their office is at 279 North Washington, Mobile. He advised the public to begin with the organization’s website (hfalg.org) for contacts and resources.

A commissioner asked Bower to provide public contact information and a summary of services; Bower reiterated the website and said people can call the office or request street outreach to meet individuals at known locations.

The presentation was made during the public-comment portion of the commission’s regular meeting; no formal action or funding request was taken at the session.