Local nonprofits and volunteers recently united to raise awareness and support for community members experiencing homelessness in Gainesville and Alachua County.
St. Francis House hosted its first-ever World Homeless Day event on Oct. 10, bringing together community partners, volunteers and supporters to provide essential needs and resources for local individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
The event featured free haircuts, barbecue and refreshments, games and activities, essential-needs items, and community resource booths, followed by a community walk to promote awareness and solidarity for those facing housing insecurity.
“World Homeless Day is about compassion, collaboration and community,” said Tavia Sumpter, director of shelter services at St. Francis House. “We’re so thankful to everyone who came together to help create new futures for our neighbors in need.”
St. Francis House community parners include Alachua County Fire Rescue, Alachua County School Board, Humana Healthy Horizons in Florida, Family Promise of Gainesville, Released Reentry, Meridian, Block by Block, Tree City Church, Alachua County Sheriff Chad Scott, and others.
The free haircuts during the event were provided by Undefeated Barbers, Brothers With A Purpose and Katie the Haircut Lady. The food was provided by Smoking Fatties BBQ.
For more information about St. Francis House and its services, please stfrancishousegnv.com.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: ‘Compassion, collaboration and community’: St. Francis House marks World Homeless Day
Reporting by Special to The Sun / The Gainesville Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
