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St. Mary's County proclaims Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week, highlights WARM interfaith shelter and county support
Summary
The board proclaimed Nov. 13–19, 2011 as Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week and recognized WARM, an interfaith shelter program that coordinates congregations, human-service agencies and county departments to provide winter shelter, meals and transportation. County staff and WARM organizers described a week of outreach events and thanked the
The Board of County Commissioners issued a proclamation designating Nov. 13–19, 2011 as Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week and acknowledged WARM, an interfaith nonprofit that coordinates shelter and meals for people experiencing homelessness during the cold months.
Commissioner Cynthia L. Jones presented the proclamation and invited WARM representatives and partners to the dais. A WARM representative said the program's strength is collaboration among faith-based organizations, social-service agencies and volunteers. Julie Almond, a partner with local nonprofit partners, described a week of activities including restaurant fundraisers, movie nights, a fundraising event at a local restaurant, a moment of silence and a walk to end homelessness. The proclamation noted county statistics cited by presenters: that more than 805 persons in Southern Maryland were experiencing homelessness and that 8.5 percent of St. Mary's County residents live below the poverty level (figures cited in the proclamation language provided to the board).
Speakers thanked county departments — public works, recreation and parks, and aging and human services — for transportation support between intake and host congregations, which program organizers said was critical to program operations. Commissioner Jack Russell thanked volunteers and WARM partners for expanding the program's reach and keeping people safe during cold months.
The board did not take a separate recorded vote on the proclamation beyond customary presentation; commissioners joined presenters in recognizing the week and encouraging resident participation in outreach activities.
