Blog: Making Eagle Rock's Homeless Count

As 2012 comes to an end, it is a time many of us think back about the years events and what we have accomplished.

For Recycled Resources for the Homeless, a small nonprofit organization serving those chronically homeless in Northeast Los Angeles, we look back and say thank you. Thank you to those in our community who support our efforts to improve the lives of our neighbors without homes. 

Recently, Recycled Resources hosted a cold weather clothing drive, with the support of Councilmember José Huizar, to gather blankets and warm clothing to keep our neighbors without homes warm and safe during the cold days ahead. As the accompanyin photo demonstrates, we were very successful, and the response was overwhelming. Thanks to your donations, Recycled Resources is now stocked for the chilly days ahead. Thank you again. 

I would like to inform my neighbors about the LAHSA (Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority) Homeless Count in 2013 and ask that you consider joining us. A vital project undertaken once every two years, the Homeless Count demonstrates the need for funding and services for people without shelter. The 2013 Count is an opportunity for everyone throughout L.A. County to play a tremendous role in ending homelessness—and is the first step in helping to end homelessness.

This year, Eagle Rock and Highland Park are participating. On the evening of Thursday, Jan. 31, 2103, volunteers will be assigned tracks throughout Eagle Rock and you will be asked to tally folks you observe without shelter. At this time you need not engage people unless they engage you as the purpose of this project is to count people you observe without shelter in order to document the need for services. We need counters! We need all the help and support we can get to make sure every person is counted. To join us for the count simply use this link:

http://volunteer.theycountwillyou.org/

Click on the tab that reads, "I would like to create an account and volunteer." Once you have submitted your name and information, you will be shown a list of teams you could join. Please click "Recycled Resources" and then select the Eagle Rock location in SPA 4. If you have any questions, please e-mail me at info@recycledresources.org.

For many, homelessness is an epidemic, a problem so vast and huge and overwhelming that they feel they cannot change it. I believe we can. Do what you can and believe that any act, no matter how small, will make a difference. We have the ability to improve our neighborhood for all who call Eagle Rock home—and this is an opportunity for you to do just that. Have a happy warm and safe New Years Eve!

Rebecca Prine

Director, Recycled Resources for the Homeless

www.recycledresources.org