Community Voice Mail-South Florida

Mortgage and rental help

2009-07-01T13:14:00.000-07:00

Do You or Someone You Know Need Help with Rent or Mortgage?

The DCF Office on Homelessness will begin accepting Emergency Financial Assistance for Housing Program (EFAHP) applications on July 6, 2009.

Please do not send applications to the program until 8:30 a.m. Monday, July 6. Any applications received before that time will be denied.

Application Guidelines:
· The household must have at least one child under 18 years of age living there full-time.
· The application must be filled out completely, including Social Security numbers for all family members; monthly income from all sources; a written explanation of the housing emergency; and the signature of the applicant.
· The one-page Vendor Agreement must be completed and signed by the landlord, mortgage company or property owner.
· If the case is approved, a State of Florida check will be mailed directly to the landlord, mortgage company or property owner.
· The program can pay up to $400 once per year for overdue rent or mortgage payments, or for security deposit for a household that is homeless, being evicted, or whose housing has been damaged by fire, hurricane or other natural disaster.

Applications are available online in English, Spanish and Creole at:
www.dcf.state.fl.us/homelessness or by calling 1-877-891-6445.
Fax applications to 1-850-921-2559 or mail to:
Department of Children and Families
Office on Homelessness
1317 Winewood Blvd.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0700
If you have questions, please call 1-877-891-6445.

Free Medication

2009-05-20T06:48:00.001-07:00

Pfizer announced a program to help newly unemployed persons and their families to get Pfizer medications for free.

The program, for those who lost health insurance and been unemployed since Jan. 1, will be open for enrollment through Dec. 31. For those eligible, Pfizer medications will be free for up to one year.

''We all know people who have been laid off recently and have lost their health insurance, making it difficult for them to pay for healthcare,'' said Jorge Puente, Pfizer's regional president of Worldwide Pharmaceuticals. ``We thought there must be some way we could help.''

All of Pfizer's patient assistance programs, including the new program, can be reached by calling 1-866-706-2400 or by visiting www.PfizerHelpfulAnswers.com.

Free Food

2009-05-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

The Oprah Winfrey Show/Kentucky Grilled Chicken Two-Piece Meal Coupon

Get two pieces of grilled chicken, two individual sides and a biscuit!
Limited Time Download
Coupon download available from 9 a.m. CDT on May 5, 2009, to 11:59 p.m. CDT on May 6, 2009. Coupon is redeemable at participating KFC® locations in the United States from May 5, 2009 to May 19, 2009—excluding Mother's Day, May 10, 20099.

Go to unthinkfc.com to download your coupon!

Due to heavy demand, you may experience some slowness navigating to the website. Please be patient and try again later.

Please email KFC.PublicRelations@KFC.com with any problems concerning your KFC coupon.

* Terms: Free offer good for two pieces of Kentucky Grilled Chicken™ (manager's choice) and two individual sides and a biscuit at participating KFC restaurants located in the Unites States, while supplies last. Limit one offer per coupon, one coupon per person during offer period. Must be redeemed in person. Not good with any other offers. No photocopied, mechanically reproduced or altered coupon accepted. Coupon cannot be sold or traded. Valid only if downloaded from UnthinKFC.com. Applicable tax extra. Void where prohibited. By downloading coupon, you agree that KFC is not responsible for any technical problems or malfunctions of computer systems, servers or printers or lost or unavailable network connections. You are limited to 4 downloads of coupon. Coupon fraud is punishable by law.

Painter trade -- Job training

2009-04-27T06:42:00.001-07:00

Get Work Ready!

Greetings!

Whether you want South Florida Workforce to help you find a job or you want to become a certified Sherwin Williams Painting Professional, the first step is to get WORK READY!

The Work Ready Program Will Help You With:

Interviewing Skills
Resume Preparation
Employer Ability Skills
Professional Dress Code
Becoming Work Ready - it only takes 3 hours out of your day, but it can open many doors! Please find the upcoming training classes below.

Date: Choose April 30, 2009 or May 1, 2009
Time: 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Address:
West Dade Career Center
Operated by: Youth Co-Op, Inc.
Center Director: Carl Alexis
2700 SW 97 Avenue
Miami, FL 33165
Tel: 305-228-2300

Sherwin-Williams Professional Painter Training

Greetings!

ACCESS Miami, in cooperation with Sherwin Williams will be conducting a FREE Paint Training Course that will run two weeks. Participants must be 18 years or older and provide their own transportation. No high school diploma is needed. Certification will be awarded at the
end of the program and eligibility for job placement will be available. Only 20 training slots are
available on a first come, first served basis. YOU MUST COMPLETE THE WORK READY TRAINING FIRST TO PARTICIPATE. (Information above)

Learn a new skill
Start your own business
Be considered for employment with various local companies
Receive a Sherwin Williams starter kit, upon completion.

Starts On: Monday, May 4th, 2009
Ends On: Friday, May 15th, 2009
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (Monday to Friday for 2 Weeks)

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND:
Please RSVP to Monica Bosano at
E-mail: Mbosano@miamigov.com
Ph: 305.416.1481

LOCATION:
West End Park
Location: 250 SW 60th Avenue, Miami, FL 33144
Phone: 305-264-0341

Breakfast and lunch is included.

Jobs for Youth

2009-04-06T11:48:00.001-07:00

We will be working with WorkForce 1 to seek employer partners who would like to participate in this Program. If any employer has an interest please contact us.
Thank you.
Thomas.
Welcome to the Summer Youth Employment Program 2009

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As a result of the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), WorkForce One will be operating a Summer Jobs Program for youth ages 19-24. The program will last for eight weeks starting Monday June 15, 2009 and ending Friday August 7, 2009.

WF1 is seeking Not-for-profit, forâ€“profit, and governmental agencies to host worksites for the youth, and to provide supervised, safe and meaningful employment opportunities. WorkForce One will pay the youths' wages and provide workers compensation coverage for the youth. Please note that pursuant to Section 1604 of the Recovery Act the following types of job placements are prohibited: Casinos or gambling establishments, aquariums, zoos, golf courses, or swimming pools.

Click below to download more information, including the Job Order Registration Form and the appropriate Employer Agreement (For Profit or Not-For-Profit)

Master Agreement for Municipalities and Not-For-Profits, not County: (New Employers only) Existing Agreements are good through August 2009.) Print THREE copies. Sign each of the three copies (blue ink preferred) and return to the address below:
Master Agreement for Profit Entities - Summer Jobs Only: (New Employers only) Existing Agreements are good through August 2009.) Print THREE copies. Sign each of the three copies (blue ink preferred) and return to the address below:
Occupational License (for Profit entities): (New Employers only) Please mail a copy of your Occupational License to the address below
Articles of Incorporation (for Non Profit entities): (New Employers only) Please mail a copy of your Articles of Incorporation to the address below
Job Order Form - Fill this out to identify Worksite(s), Job Type(s) and number of positions requested.
Employer FAQ

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WorkForce One Employment Solutions
3800 Inverrary Boulevard, Suite 400
Lauderhill, FL. 33319

Attention: Summer Youth Employment Program
Or call us at (954) 535-2300 for additional information

Copyright © 1997 - 2009 by WorkForce One Employment Solutions - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

More Food Assistance Benefits

2009-03-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

Your SNAP Benefits Are Going Up!

website http://www.fns.usda.gov/fsp/Default.htm

Why are my benefits going up?

• There is a new law called the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act of 2009. You might have heard it called the
stimulus package.

• Because of the law, you get more Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP is the new name
for the Food Stamp Program. SNAP may have a different name
where you live.

How can I use the extra benefits?

• Use your extra benefits to buy food at your grocery store.

• In some places, SNAP also offers nutrition education to help you
and your family learn to choose healthy food on a budget and be
more active.

How do I get the extra benefits?

• You get the extra benefits starting April 2009.

• The extra benefits will be added automatically to your EBT card.

You do not have to do anything.

How much extra do I get?

• Some households with 1 or 2 people who get the minimum benefit
of $14 a month may get $16 a month starting in April. Others may
get more.

• Look at the table below to see how much more you may get each
month.

• For example: If there are 3 people in your household and right now
you get $250 each month. In April, you will get $313 each month.
($250 + $63 = $313)

FREE GED CLASSES

2009-03-17T12:37:00.000-07:00

GED

School: Plantation Community School

Description:
Prepare to complete your High School education, GED classes will help you earn your diploma at Plantation High School. Individual, small group and computer assisted instruction. Free Childcare available during evening hours for enrolled students at Plantation High Community School site only.
Registration URL:

Department: Adult General Education
Discipline: Adult General Education

Total Cost: $00.00
Prerequisites:
The following sections of this class are available at
Plantation Community School :

Days of Week Start Time End Time
MTWTh 05:00 PM 09:15 PM
MTWThF 08:00 AM 01:30 PM

Plantation Community School
6901 Northwest 16th Street
Plantation, Fl 33313

Phone: (754) 322-1950
Fax: (754) 322-1960

REGISTRATION: in the Adult Education
Office, Building 1, Room 201
Office hours:
Monday through Thursday 4:00-8:00PM
Friday 12:00-3:00PM

Fake HUD site

2009-03-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

FYI

Beware – bad/deceptive website: http://bailout.hud-gov.us/

It’s a phishing site – if anyone asks about it, advise them to stay away. Deliberately deceiving website. Domain name registered in Germany, host in California, etc…

The Inpector General has been notified.

Resume Help--Fedex can help

2009-03-09T10:09:00.001-07:00

FedEx Office (formerly FedEx Kinko's), an operating company of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX), today announced plans to offer its printing services in an effort to help job seekers across the nation. The company will host "FedEx Office Free Resume Printing Day" on March 10, 2009, offering to print up to 25 copies of each customer's resume for free.

As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor, the nation's unemployment rate rose to 7.6 percent and the number of unemployed persons increased to 11.6 million in January 2009. With so many people looking to get their printed resumes in the hands of recruiters and hiring managers, FedEx Office is prepared to help.

The company invites customers to take advantage of this one-day event by visiting any of its 1,600+ FedEx Office Print and Ship Centers in the United States during regular business hours. This offer is good for 25 black-and-white resume copies per customer and is only valid for orders placed and picked up in-store. Customers may place orders by submitting their resume in printed format or as a digital file, and the copies will be printed single-sided on resume-quality paper.

"We understand that the economy has affected many people in a very profound way, and we want to help," said Brian Philips, president and CEO of FedEx Office. "Printing resumes is one small way we can use our resources to help those who need it."

To find the nearest FedEx Office Print and Ship Center, visit www.fedex.com or call 1-800-Go-FedEx (1-800-463-3339).

Homeless Survey

2009-03-02T11:18:00.000-08:00

Focus Groups 2009
Sponsored by The Coalition to End Homelessness
Room 192 at BPHI

- MARK YOUR CALENDARS -

Providers serving Homeless Individuals 3/12/09 9:00 - Noon
Providers serving Homeless Families 3/12/09 1:00 – 4:00

Consumers – Homeless Families 3/13/09 9:00 – Noon
Consumers – Homeless Individuals 3/13/09 1:00 – 4:00

Questions for Providers:

1. What are your thoughts regarding the existing services available in this county?
2. What is your agency’s greatest un-met need in serving clients?
3. What kind of program do you envision being the most effective in assisting homeless (individuals/families) becoming self-sufficient?
4. How can we do a better job of reaching out to people who are resisting treatment or rehabilitation?
5. What do your consider to be the primary causes of individual/family homelessness?
6. What are the reasons some clients do not succeed?
7. How do you believe the problem of homelessness in Broward County can be solved? How?
8. What specific things can be done to educate the general public to be more accepting of shelters and other programs that help the homeless?
9. What factors in the community (socio/economic) contribute to homelessness and what can we do about it?
10. Have you noticed that more of your clients are victims of violence while on the streets? If so, what can we do collectively to remedy the situation?
11. What are the greatest barriers faced by your agency in serving the homeless?
12. Are you or your agency involved in any Advocacy efforts to address the root causes of homelessness? Please explain.
13. What Advocacy issues do you see as being most important right now in terms of helping homeless people?
14. Have you noticed any emerging trends that you think the Governor’s Office needs to be aware of?
15. If you had a private audience with the Governor to discuss homeless issues, needs, and solutions what would you tell him?

Homeless Individuals and Families

1. As someone who has experienced homelessness, what do you consider to be the greatest un-met need of someone on the streets?
2. What do you think homeless families/individuals need most?
3. What types of programs and services do you think are missing for the homeless in Broward?
4. What types of programs and services do you think are most effective?
5. What do you think are the major causes of homelessness?
6. Are mental health/substance abuse issues being address appropriately?
7. What information would you like your elected officials to know about homelessness?
8. What are your thoughts regarding the existing services currently available in our community for homeless people?
9. How do you think homelessness can be solved/ended?
10. How can we do a better job of reaching out to people who are resisting treatment?
11. Have you noticed that there is more violence towards homeless people, and if so, how do you suggest that we remedy the situation?
12. Is homelessness an economic problem or an individual problem?
13. If you had a private audience with the Governor to discuss homeless issues, needs, and solutions what would you tell him?

Foreclosure Prevention Help

2009-02-27T11:36:00.001-08:00

ACORN of Broward County holds foreclosure prevention workshops FREE of charge that are designed to get applicants/participants an opportunity to get a HUD certified counselor to assist in the modification of their mortgage loans for homes that are in foreclosure. The workshops are held two times a week on Tuesday evenings at 6:00pm and Saturday mornings at 10:30am at the Broward County ACORN office. For more information, contact: John I. Cook, organizer, at (954) 678-8334 anytime!
Location: 2700 West Oakland Park Blvd., Suite 23, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311

Peanut Recall

2009-02-13T12:51:00.001-08:00

An Important Public Health Message from Community Voice Mail,

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration

Have you heard about the recall of foods that contain peanuts or peanut butter in them because they may contain Salmonella? Salmonella is bacteria that can make you sick with diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Products on the recall list include cookies, crackers, cereal, candy and ice cream that have peanut butter or peanuts in them. Major national brands of jarred peanut butter found in grocery stores are NOT affected by the recall.

To find out if you have food that is on the recall list, you can go to the FDA web site and look it up using a searchable database at http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/salmonellatyph.html. Or, call the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636 ). You can call this number 24 hours a day and speak to an operator in English or Spanish who will look up the food for you.

If you learn that food you have IS on the list, do NOT eat it, and throw it away. Also, do NOT feed the recalled food to your pets or other animals, as it can make them sick too. If you have questions about the recall or if you have questions about Salmonella, do not hesitate to call the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO… that’s 1-800-232-4636…

We hope you found this information valuable, and plan to check the list or call the CDC to see if food you have is on the recall list. Also, please tell your friends about the recall, and forward this message!

Section 8 applications coming soon

2009-02-13T12:47:00.000-08:00

The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale will be opening a waiting list for our Section 8 Program. We will be handing out applications on February 21, 2009 at 500 West Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 from 8:00 a.m. until all 3000 applications are distributed. DO NOT ARRIVE BEFORE 7:00 AM. A Public Lottery will be held in a later date to select 2500 names for our Waiting List; you do not have to attend to be selected. Instructions for returning applications will be found on the application.

To qualify: the family's yearly gross income must not exceed the very low-income for the household size. For families that currently have subsidized rent, the yearly gross income must not exceed the low-income limits for the family size.

I
person 2
persons 3
persons 4
persons 5
persons 6
persons 7
persons 8
persons
VERY LOW
INCOME
$24,900
$28,500
$32,050
$35,600
$38,450
$41,300
$44,150
$47,000
LOW
INCOME
$39,850
$45,550
$51,250
$56,950
$61,500
$66,050
$70,600
$75,150

Equal Housing Opportunity Statement: We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin

Broward Homeless Count

2009-02-03T08:59:00.001-08:00

Broward County begins homeless census
Biennial census may settle the dispute between advocates and county government
By Lisa J. Huriash | South Florida Sun-Sentinel
January 30, 2009
FORT LAUDERDALE - Walking around Fort Lauderdale Is your Fort Lauderdale restaurant clean? - Click Here., trying to stay clear of police, and panhandling money for coffee at Burger King, Normand Neunier is largely invisible most of the year.

But on Thursday, he counted.

Neunier, 56,told volunteers conducting a homeless census in Broward County Click here for restaurant inspection reports that his employer went out of business in November 2007, leaving him unable to pay the rent.

"I just need a job," Neunier said. "It's depressing."

To find him and the thousands of others in his situation, 244 volunteers scoured Broward's bus terminals, soup kitchens, libraries and parking lots from 4 a.m. to about 8 p.m. Thursday.

Counties must conduct a homeless survey every two years as a condition of state and federal funding. Palm Beach conducted its audit for a 24-hour period that began Wednesday. Results from both counties are not expected for several weeks.

In Broward, however, the numbers are often a source of contention.

The Coalition to End Homelessness, which conducted the audit from the late 1980s through 2007, found more than 3,300 on the street and hundreds more in shelters in its 2007 count. But county officials said the more accurate figure was 3,150.

"There were demographics that didn't look right," explained Steve Werthman, division director of Broward County's homeless initiative partnership. "One hundred percent of residents in emergency shelters were counted as chronic. Usually, it's about 15 percent, so it raised a red flag."

This year, Werthman received permission from state agencies to take over the census.

Laura Hansen, who heads the Coalition to End Homelessness, insists the county is underestimating the problem.

"Why are our numbers higher than their numbers? I'm not going to say they are doing anything wrong, but perhaps a perception there are fewer homeless people clears their consciousness somewhat," she said. "Unless we know the scope of the problem, we really are going to be handicapped in terms of addressing it."

Volunteers Pat Mantis and Eddie Copeland scoured the Riverwalk area looking for homeless. They had chocolates in their bags to give those who cooperated.

"We're conducting a survey," Mantis told a disheveled man pushing a suitcase. "Go to the Internet," he told her. "There's lots of information there."

Richard Ellis, 50, was more helpful.

He said he got behind in his rent after he lost his job moving furniture. He has only been homeless one night and spent it sleeping under a tree. "I can't stand being in this position," he said.

Neunier said he spent nearly a year at different shelters but was unable to find a new job. His only possessions are a blanket, a jacket, a change of socks, shirts and pants, and a razor he carries in a black backpack ("my house," he explains).

He uses his knapsack as a pillow. "It's a lot easier to sleep at night when you've had a couple beers," he said.He doubts the census results will help him because there's only so much money to go around. A community volunteer who used to hand out two or three sandwiches at a time to the homeless has cut back to just one, he said.

"Times are hard," Neunier said.

Cold weather Advisory.

2009-02-03T08:47:00.000-08:00

COLD WEATHER EMERGENCY ADVISORY

Date: February 3, 2009 Time: 10:30 a.m.

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts low temperatures in the low 40s late tonight into Wednesday morning for Broward County, with even colder conditions overnight Wednesday into Thursday morning when wind chill will it make it feel like the lower 30s.

As a result of this forecast, Broward County has declared a cold weather emergency. Homeless persons are advised to report to the following locations, no later than 6:30 p.m. both nights for transportation to special cold night shelters:

• City of Pompano Beach

Pompano Beach City Hall 100 W. Atlantic Blvd (SE Corner)

• City of Fort Lauderdale

The Salvation Army 1445 West Broward Blvd

• City of Hollywood Corner of N. 21 Ave & Lincoln St

and/or

Corner of N. 21 Ave & Sherman St

(both locations East of railroad tracks)

Please notify homeless persons in your area of this plan.

This activation is for two nights: Overnight Tuesday, 2/3/09 until Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m. and overnight Wednesday 2/4/09 until Thursday morning at 9:00 a.m.

If you have any questions or need additional information on the plan for your area, contact:

Steve Werthman

Director

Broward County Homeless Initiative Partnership Division

Office: 954-357-6167 or 954-593-3321 cell

Free Tax Service

2009-01-06T13:03:00.000-08:00

Anyone earning less than $40,000.00 can receive free tax preparation at the folloiwing locations.

African American Research Libr
Open 1/23 through 4/9. Closed 2/18. Hours: Mon. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., Wed. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
2650 Sistrunk Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale, 33311
_____________________________________________________________________________________
City of Lauderdale Lakes
Open 2/16 through 4/12. Hours: Sat. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

4340 NW 36th Street
, 33319
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Hispanic Unity-Urban League
Open 1/28 through 4/3. Hours: Mon. 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m., Tue. 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m., Wed. 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m., Thu. 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
3521 West Broward Blvd. Suite 201
Fort Lauderdale, 33311
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Minority Dev. & Empowerment P
Open 1/22 through 4/15. Hours: Mon. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tue. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Wed. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thu. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

1350 N. Powerline Road
Pompano Beach, 33069
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Broward County Main Library
Sponsored by AARP. Open 2/1 through 4/15. Hours: Wed. 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Call 954-357-7439 for an appointment.

100 S Andrews Ave.
Fort Lauderdale, 33301

Keys to a better future

2009-01-05T11:02:00.000-08:00

Keys to a bettter Future....

The job market is increasingly competative and Browardd Public Schools is interested in helping everyone obtain the keys to a better future.

If you didn't graduate from high school now you can!On Saturday January 10th learn about all the options for getting your diploma or GED certificate. This FREE event is sponsored by the Broward County Public Schools, for more information, call 754-321-2951

Free IPOD give-aways, door prizes, celebrity appearances and much more!....
Daytime Phone:754-321-1121-

Location:
6500 Nova Dr
Davie, FL 33317
(754) 321-5700

Snapshoots for the homeless

2008-12-18T06:24:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Yahoo!

Foreclosure can leead to homelessness..... There is help.

2008-12-03T07:11:00.000-08:00

During these tough economic times many people have become homeless for the first time because they loose their jobs and ultimately loose their homes. If you are behiind on mortgage payments or know someone who is....there is help. Broward County has a list of resources that can be used. Below is one that you can use to get help to prevent loosing your home.

Foreclosure Prevention Program

Home Owner Services

Tips to Avoid Foreclosure:

Contact Your Lender
Open and Respond to All Mail from Your Lender
Contact a HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency
Create a Personal Budget
Review Your Financial Resources
Consider Ways to Increase Income and Reduce Expenses
Make Sure You Try Saving Money
Foreclosure Prevention Program

This Program is designed to preserve the affordable housing stock of Broward County for single family home owners who need assistance in the form of a deferred payment loan to pay defaulted mortgages where the home owner is in default at least thirty (30) days. The property must be owner occupied, and home must meet program qualifications and guidelines.

The program is administered by:

Broward County Housing Authority
4780 North State Road 7
Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33319

Phyllis Brown
(954) 739-1114 Extension 2304
For more detailed information about foreclosure proceedings and processes, please visit the Housing and Urban Development, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Clerk of Court websites at the links below. To further define your search, you may type “foreclosure” in the keyword search boxes on the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Internal Revenue Service sites.

Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Internal Revenue Service
Broward County Clerk of Court

Homeless Announcement

2008-12-02T07:18:00.000-08:00

COLD WEATHER EMERGENCY ADVISORY

Date: December 2, 2008 Time: 9:30 A.M.

The National Weather Service forecasts a low temperature, including wind chill, in the mid-40s in parts of Broward overnight tonight.

Broward County has declared a cold weather emergency. Homeless persons are advised to report to the following locations, no later than 6:30 p.m. tonight, Dec. 2, 2008 for transportation to special cold night shelters:

• Pompano Beach Pompano Beach City Hall 100 W. Atlantic Blvd

(S. side parking lot)

• Fort Lauderdale The Salvation Army 1445 West Broward Blvd

• Hollywood Corner of N. 21 Ave & Lincoln St and/or Corner of N. 21 Ave & Sherman St (both East of railroad tracks)

Please notify homeless persons in your area of this plan.

Homeless Announcement

2008-11-19T06:46:00.000-08:00

Cold Weather Shelter for the Homeless

COLD WEATHER EMERGENCY ADVISORY

Date: November 18, 2009 Time: 12:30 P.M.

The National Weather Service forecasts a low temperature, including wind chill, in the mid-40s overnight.

Broward County has declared a cold weather emergency. Homeless persons are advised to report to the following locations, no later than 6:30 p.m. for transportation to special cold night shelters:

• Pompano Beach Pompano Beach City Hall 100 W. Atlantic Blvd
(S. side parking lot)

• Fort Lauderdale The Salvation Army 1445 West Broward Blvd
Hollywood Corner of N. 21 Ave & Lincoln St and/or Corner of N. 21 Ave & Sherman St (both East of railroad tracks)

Please notify homeless persons in your area of this plan.

Homeless Awareness Event

2008-11-13T09:20:00.000-08:00

ANNOUNCEMENT:

The Miami Rescue Mission and Broward Outreach Centers are having their 2nd Annual Great Fall Sleep-A-Thon only a few days away. It starts at 6 PM at Markham Park in Sunrise, Fl on Nov. 14, 2008. This will be a time to raise awareness of homelessness in South Florida as well as help raise funds for our Centers in Miami, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach. We need you to get involved. Visit their websites at http://www.miamirescuemission.com or http://www.browardoutreachcenter.com for more information and to register online. Go directly to the Sleep-A-Thon Page at www.miamirescuemission.com/sleepathon08.htm

Providers are free to come and set up a table (no $$ but we need an application as a participant with your agency's info)
This is not just about the Centers, it is about homelessness in South Florida and we need as many people to attend as possible. There will be media present and also residents from our Centers.

There will be food, entertainment, special speakers, and surprises.

If you can't come, will you tell your friends about this event? We want the homeless and needy to know that they are not forgotten and that there is help to get off the streets and become successful in life.

Community Event for Haiti Relief

2008-11-06T08:13:00.000-08:00

Community Event
Event details: Hait Relief Program
Date: 11/07/08
Venue: Broward County
Start Time: 6:30PM
Description: On Friday, November 7, 2008, at 6 pm, Children Of Kourage, Youth Empowerment Program will host and render a solidarity program for Haiti Hurricane Relief Efforts. We hope that the Boyd H. Anderson families, friends, and communities will be in mass attendance as well as local city officials. Consulate, Alex Mathurin will be in attendance. Inspirational Artiste Debbi Verbz has also confirmed.

It will be a night of theatrical arts and endeavors, compelling brotherly love to our fellow Haitians.

In light of the triple Hurricane disaster, the night will be dedicated to the victims of the recent natural disasters. Our small group has only begun pulling the chariot, but great help is needed in arriving our destination. A larger fragment of Children Of Kourage members is of Caribbean decent and has discovered peace with in the qualities of the program. Through this night of charity, we hope that everyone will join hands and hearts. Our kids have put a lot of time, energy, and pride in writing a play dedicated to Haiti’s devastation. Along with their show, they have choreographed cultural dances and inspirational songs to deliver. This is proof that when children are educated about their culture as a whole, they will put aside differences and finally bridge the gap; meaning, helping each other through out our nations inner prejudices.

Our hearts goes out to the people of the Gulf coast and on behalf of the children of Haiti, we hope this doing will make a sizable donation to aid in hurricane relief efforts.

Location: 3050 NW 41st Street

Career & College Fair

2008-11-06T08:02:00.000-08:00

Career Fair for Youth
Event details: College/Career Fair
Date: 11/08/08
Venue: Broward County
Start Time: 1:00PM
End time: 5:00PM
Description: TEAMMVPSPORTS.ORG

COLLEGE/CAREER FAIR

LOCATION: DILLARD HIGH SCHOOL

TIME:1PM-5PM
Location: FORT LAUDERDALE

Community Yard Sale Event

2008-11-06T07:46:00.000-08:00

Weekend Event
Event details: Biggest Yard Yale - Lauderhill
Date: 11/08/08
Venue: ABC Fine Wine & Spirits (map)
Start Time: 09:00AM
End time: 1:00PM
Description: BIGGEST YARD SALE EVER IN THE CITY OF LAUDERHILL! Have little or no money to shop for the holidays? Don't loose your mind! First Church of the Open Bible Pre-School is pulling out all the stops to make available brand new and lightly worn men,women and children's shoes and clothing. Designer clothes,trendy accessories as well as lightly used toys will be sold at rock bottom prices to help you stretch your dollars in our ailing economy. COME EARLY...LEAVE HAPPY!!!

Location: First Church of the Open Bible Pre-School 2030 NW 49th Avenue (opposite Lauderhill Middle School)

Employment for Ex-Offenders

2008-10-30T07:48:00.000-07:00

A job site for ex-offenders.

Ex-offedners in Broward County now have another tool to assist with the challenge of finding employment. A very helpful site that specifically helps ex-offenders connect with employers who hire ex-offenders is www.hard2hire.org

If you have access to the internet log on to the site select search for jobs, create a profile, and begin connecting with employers.

Early Voting Wait Times

2008-10-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

New Service Allows Voters To Check Out "Wait Times" at Early Voting Sites

Broward County Supervisor of Elections
DATE: October 22, 2008
MEDIA CONTACT: Mary Cooney, Supervisor of Elections Office
PHONE: 954-712-1960
MEDIA CONTACT: Judy Sarver, Broward County Office of Public Communications
PHONE: 954-357-7583

The Broward County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Supervisor of Elections Office, announces a convenient new service that allows residents to call ahead or visit the Web site for wait times at early voting locations.

It is anticipated that turnout throughout the early voting period will continue to be high, and residents may encounter lines at some locations. Using a new service just launched by Broward County, voters are encouraged to check wait times at early voting locations before going to the polls. Call the Broward County Call Center at 3-1-1 or 954-831-4000 (954-831-3940 TTY for the hearing-impaired), or visit www.broward.org or www.browardsoe.org and click on "Early Voting Wait Times." Posted wait times at all Early Voting locations are updated regularly.

Broward County Mayor Lois Wexler, the Board of County Commissioners and Broward County Supervisor of Elections, Dr. Brenda C. Snipes, urge all registered voters to take advantage of early voting and the conveniences it offers:

Early voting continues through Sunday, November 2. There are 17 early voting locations, including select branch libraries, city halls and courthouses. For a complete list of early voting sites, visit the Supervisor of Elections Web site at www.browardsoe.org and click on "Early Voting" under "Voting Methods."
Residents who wish to vote early can do so at any of the designated early voting locations, regardless of their normal voting precinct. Locations are open Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; and Sunday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
To save time at the polls, voters are encouraged to study the ballot in advance and be prepared with their choices.
Need a ride to an early voting location? Broward County Transit (BCT) bus routes serve 14 of the 17 Early Voting locations. To plan your trip, visit www.broward.org/bct or call BCT Customer Service at 954-357-8400 (954-357-8302 TTY for the hearing-impaired).

Important Update on Absentee Ballots

The last day residents can request an absentee ballot is Wednesday, October 29. Requests for absentee ballots may be made by mail, telephone at 954-357-7055, online at www.browardsoe.org, or in person at one of the following locations:

Deerfield Beach: North Regional County Courthouse, 1600 W. Hillsboro Blvd, Room 170
Fort Lauderdale: Governmental Center, 115 S. Andrews Ave., Room 102
Hollywood: South Regional County Courthouse, 3550 Hollywood Blvd., Room 180
Lauderhill: Lauderhill Mall, 1501 NW 40th Ave.
Plantation: West Regional County Courthouses, 100 N. Pine Island Road, Room 130
The Supervisor of Elections will mail out absentee ballots through Friday, October 31.

Voted absentee ballots may be delivered by mail or in person to any office of the Supervisor of Elections. Please use the pre-addressed, return envelope provided and remember to sign the back side of the envelope before returning it. Return postage is $1.17.

Ballots must be received by the Supervisor of Elections by 7 p.m. on November 4

VOTE!

2008-10-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

Broward County Readies for Early Voting

BCT Identifies Bus Routes to Early Voting Locations

DATE: October 17, 2008
CONTACT: Doris Williams, Broward County Transit Division
PHONE: 954-357-6786
CONTACT: Mary Cooney, Supervisor of Elections
PHONE: 954-712-1960

Early Voting for the national general election on November 4 will begin next week. One Broward County agency, Broward County Transit (BCT), is making it easier for residents to get to Early Voting sites.

BCT has made available a list of the bus routes that serve 14 of the Early Voting locations. There are 17 locations countywide. Residents who plan on using Broward County Transit to vote early can plan their trip by visiting www.broward.org/bct or call customer service at 954-357-8400.

Early Voting begins on Monday, October 20 at various locations across the County including select branch libraries, city halls and courthouses. Hours of operations are Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturdays, 10.a.m. - 3 p.m.; and Sunday 1-4 p.m. Early Voting will end on Sunday, November 2. For a complete list of Early Voting sites, visit the Supervisor of Elections web site at www.browardsoe.org. and select "Early Voting" under "Voting Methods."

Voters who have requested absentee ballots should know that absentee ballots are mailed out approximately two to three weeks prior to Election Day. Requests for absentee ballots can be made in person at the Supervisor of Elections' main office downtown Fort Lauderdale or at branch offices located in Deerfield Beach, Hollywood, Lauderhill and Plantation; by mail, by telephone or online.

On Election Day, November 4, all polling locations will be open 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

BCT Early Voting Routes
Absentee Ballot Requests

Job Fair !

2008-10-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Job Fair:

Broward Business Leardership Network in partnership with 211 is conducting the 4th Annual Job Fair for people with disabilities and a seminar series for employers. John Kemp, Executive Director of United States Business Leardership Network will be the keynote speaker. For additional information please call (954) 722-6400/ TTY (954) 735-0963 or email pmasters@cilbroward.org.

Location: Nova Southeastern University
Carl DeSantis Building
3301 College Avenue
Davie, FL 33314

Time: Thursday, October 16, 2008 8:00am - 4:00pm

Upcoming Community Events

2008-10-06T17:57:00.000-07:00

Event details: Annual 5K Run/Walk
Date: 10/11/08
Venue: Broward County
Start Time: 07:30AM
Description: AVDA, Inc. (Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse, inc.) Annual 5K Run/Walk - Saturday October 11, 2008 at 7:30 am Anchor Park, Delray Beach. Lots of prizes and fun for the entire family. Call for details on how to enter.

Location: Anchor Park
Address: A1A - Delray Beach
For More Information Please Call: 561-265-3797 x 102
========================================================================================

Event details: 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat
Date: 10/31/08
Venue: Broward County
Start Time: 6:30PM
End time: 8:30PM
Description: Free admission to the community! Bring your family and enjoy a SAFE and FUN night celebrating Halloween. Games-Candy-Trick or Treating-Ghost Stories All ages welcome and FREE admission to the community.

Location: Greater Hollywood YMCA Family Center

Food for low income families

2008-10-06T17:36:00.001-07:00

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

This program helps put healthy food on the table for 28 million people each month.

As of Oct. 1, 2008, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the new
name for the federal Food Stamp Program.

The new name reflects our focus on nutrition and putting healthy food within reach for low income households. Changes have been made to make the Program more accessible.
Although SNAP will be the national name, your State may use a different name.
SNAP helps low-income people and families buy the food they need for good health. You apply for benefits by completing a State application form. Benefits are provided on an electronic card that is used like an ATM card and accepted at most grocery stores.
Through nutrition education partners, SNAP helps clients learn to make healthy eating and active lifestyle choices.

Florida Hotline number 1-866 762-2237 or go to www.dcf.state.fl.us/ess/foodstamps.shtml

Ex-Offenders for Hire

2008-09-25T09:24:00.001-07:00

Here is a list of employers that hire ex-offenders with support from the Federal Bonding Program:

Marriott Hotels, AT&T, FPL, HRS, Hyatt Hotels, Peabody Hotels, Publix, Sea World, Rollins Collage, Sheraton Resorts, Southern Bell, Southland Corporation, Stoutter Resorts, Sun Trust, Tupperware, UPS, Universal Studios, University of Central Florida, Disney & Disney Village.

The Federal Bonding Program helps secure jobs placement for ex-offenders and others who have difficulty getting jobs, the United States Department of Labor has created a Federal Bonding Program (FBP). The FBP insures the employee for up to one year. The FBP guarantees trustworthiness of the employee and provides incentives for employers to hire ex-offenders. For immediate help, contact your local state employment service www.bonds4jobs.com

Angel Food Ministry Sites....Access to Affordable Food

2008-09-24T07:44:00.000-07:00

Community Voice mail encourages all in need to Contact Angel food Minitries for affordable food.
Angel Food Ministries is a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing grocery relief and financial support to communities throughout the United States. The program began in 1994 with 34 families in Monroe, Georgia (between Atlanta and Athens), and has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of families every month across 35 states. Angel Food Ministries crosses denominational lines and has spread the good news of the gospel of Christ through salvation tracts that are placed in each food order.

Blessings by the box
Angel Food is available in a quantity that can fit into a medium-sized box at $30 per unit. Each month's menu is different than the previous month and consists of both fresh and frozen items with an average retail value of approximately $60. Comparison shopping has been done across the country in various communities using a wide range of retail grocery stores and has resulted in the same food items costing from between $42 and $78.

Generally, one unit of food assists in feeding a family of four for about one week or a single senior citizen for almost a month. The food is all the same high quality one could purchase at a grocery store. There are no second-hand items, no damaged or out-dated goods, no dented cans without labels, no day-old breads and no produce that is almost too ripe.

Also offered are specialty boxes such as steaks, chicken and pork. Many participants in this bonus program appreciate the expanded choices. Additionally, there is no limit to the number of units or bonus foods an individual can receive, and there are no applications to complete or qualifications to which participants must adhere. Angel Food Ministries also participates in the U.S. Food Stamp program, using the Off-Line Food Stamp Voucher system.

It's both a Bargain and a Blessing!
Sample Menu:
(this month's menu can be viewed here)

4 lb. IQF Leg Quarters
4 oz. Beef Back Ribs
1 lb. 80/20 Lean Ground Beef
2 lb. Breaded Chicken Tenders
1.5 lb. Bone in Pork Chops (4 x 6oz.)
1 lb. Ground Turkey
18 oz. Stuffed Manicotti (Cheese)
12 oz. Smoked Sausage
Betty Crocker Seasoned Potatoes
7 oz. Cheeseburger Dinner
16 oz. Green Beans
16 oz. Baby Carrots
2 lb. Onions
1 lb. Pinto Beans
1 lb. Rice
7 oz. Blueberry Muffin Mix
10 ct. Homestyle Waffles
Dessert Item

FLORIDA
BOCA RATON Victory Christian Center 561-391-2800
COOPER CITY The Pentecostals of Cooper City 954-680-0710
954-680-0670
HOLLYWOOD First Assembly of God 954-922-5546
954-536-3024
Harvest Time Church 954-966-8444
MIAMI Lord of Life Lutheran Church 305-387-4529
MIAMI LAKES Panorama Christian Center 305-698-0765 x202
MIRAMAR Keys to Life Church 954-987-3611
PEMBROKE PINES Evangel Temple World Wide 954-793-9873

Heritage Day Event

2008-09-23T07:12:00.001-07:00

Date: 09/27/08
Venue: Broward County
Start Time: 09:00AM
End time: 5:00PM
Description: St. John United Methodist Church will be hosting a community festival on Saturday, September 27th 2008 from 9am-5pm at 1520 Northwest 5th Street in Ft. Lauderdale.

In this election year, the Theme for this year's Heritage Day Celebration is "Working Together for a Stronger United Community". The event will encompass a Blood Drive, Food Drive for Hurricane Victims in Haiti, and the very important VOTER REGISTRATION DRIVE!!!!!

Attendees can enjoy card games, dominoes, checkers and the African game Mancala at will, and for the youths, a Bounce House & Inflated MEGA Slide!!!!!!

There will be vendors of Crafts, Art and African attire, and Food for purchase!!!!

This event is free and open to everyone looking to have a great time and fellowship with the community.

Location: 1520 nw 5th street ft. lauderdale

The Law has Passed

2008-09-23T06:06:00.001-07:00

ANNOUNCEMENT --- the governer of the state of Florida has passed a law that if your address doesn't match your drivers license address you will not be allowed to vote:

It is imperative that you take every action to have your address updated and corrected before this November.

Here is the link to get it done online:

.hsmv.state.fl.us/VirtualOffice/faces/lobby.jsp

Voter Registrtion Info

2008-09-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

Who Can Register to Vote
In order to register to vote in Florida, you must:

Be a citizen of the United States of America;
Be a Florida resident;
Be 18 years old (you may pre-register to vote if you are 17 years old or have received a valid Florida driver’s license, whichever occurs earlier);
Not now be adjudicated mentally incapacitated with respect to voting in Florida or any other state;
Not have been convicted of a felony without your civil rights having been restored; and
Provide your current and valid Florida driver’s license number or Florida identification card number. You must provide the last four digits of your Social Security Number if you do not have a Florida driver’s license number or a Florida identification card number. If you do not have any of these items, you must mark the box indicated on the Voter Registration Application as “NONE.”

How to Apply to Register to Vote
Fill in the Voter Registration Application online. If you wish, you can print the application and write your information in with a black ballpoint pen.
Print the application out.
Verify that all of the information on your application is complete. The office where you register, your decision not to register, your Social Security Number, Florida driver’s license number and your Florida identification card number will remain confidential and will be used only for voter registration purposes.
Sign your application. The application requires an original signature because you are swearing or affirming to an oath.
Place the application in an envelope with a first class stamp.
Mail the application to your county Supervisor of Elections. You may also opt to mail or hand deliver the application to any Supervisor of Elections' office in the state, a driver’s license office, a voter registration agency, an armed forces recruitment office, or the Division of Elections.
If your application is complete and you qualify as a voter, the Supervisor of Elections will mail you a voter information card as official notification that you are registered to vote. Make sure all of the information on your card is correct. If you do not receive your card within 8 weeks, or if you have any questions, call your Supervisor of Elections.
You must be registered for at least 29 days before you can vote in an election.
If the information on the application is not true, the applicant can be convicted of a felony of the third degree and fined up to $5,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 5 years.

Dates to Remember When Registering to Vote
Your Registration Date
For new applicants, your registration date is the date your completed application is postmarked or hand delivered to any Supervisor of Elections' office in the state, a driver’s license office, a voter registration agency, an armed forces recruitment office, or the Division of Elections.

When You Can Vote
You must be registered for at least 29 days before you can vote in an election. Since Florida is a closed primary state, only voters who are registered members of a political parties may vote for their respective party's candidates in a primary election. Voters without party affiliation are not eligible to vote for party candidates in a primary election. However, a constitutional amendment adopted in 1998 states that IF all candidates for an office have the same party affiliation and the winner will have no opposition in the general election, all qualified voters, regardless of party affiliation, may vote in the primary election for that office. Party changes must be made by the end of the 29th day before the Primary Election. If you are not registered to vote in the political party for which the primary election is being held, you may vote for nonpartisan candidates and issues.

2008 Voter Registration Book Closing Dates
You can apply to register to vote at any time. However, to vote in an election, you must be registered in the state by the book closing date, which is normally the 29th day before each election. The book closing dates for the 2008 election cycle are:

July 28, 2008..................Primary Election
October 6, 2008.............General Election

National Homeless & Low Income Voter Registration Week

2008-09-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

This week, Sept 21-27th, is National Homeless & Low Income Voter Registration Week

Video from CNN re: registering homeless voters
September 21: "Reaching Homeless Voters," (http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/politics/2008/09/20/natpkg.homeless.voters.cnn?iref=videosearch)

a piece by CNN about registering to vote, featuring the National Coalition for the Homeless.

National Coalition for the Homeless – voter info

http://www.nationalhomeless.org/getinvolved/projects/vote/legalissues.html

National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty – voter info

http://www.nlchp.org/news.cfm?id=1

CVM Animation....Says it all

2008-09-17T15:23:00.000-07:00

click and get a full understanding of the program

www.communityvoicemail.org/homeless_animation.cfm

New CVM site.

2008-09-16T10:03:00.001-07:00

CVM partners With Another New Site
The Inland Empire CVM program is the latest partnership between Community Voice Mail and Inland Empire United Way.

Community Voice Mail Announcement

2008-09-16T09:44:00.000-07:00

The Coalition to End Homelessness has taken another huge step in the fight to End Homelessness with the introduction of Community Voice Mail. Launched in July 2008 to serve people in crisis and transition in the greater Ft. Lauderdale area Community Voice Mail is a free, reliable, voice mail service. The mail boxes allow the user to have a private phone number that connects to a voice mail service which allows them to receive confidential messages 24 hours a day. Community Voice Mail partners with thousands of agencies across the U.S. to serve the homeless, domestic violence victims, veterans, the unemployed, foster youth, and disaster victims. To qualify for the service applicants must only have a need to communicate and be low-income, homeless, in crisis or in transition. Eligibility is determined by each agency managing an allocated block of numbers and applicants can only get numbers from a participating agency.

The Coalition to end Homelessness is confronting the homelessness situation at every turn. In this era of instant communications, having a phone number, something most of us take for granted, can be the key to survival and self-sufficiency for people in crisis or transition. This innovative program will empower the homeless residents and improve their ability to conduct the business of their lives.

Community Voice is a National Program that has proven effectiveness for over 16 years by helping over 41,000 people annually reclaim their lives. Ms. Ginny a former Seattle homeless women said it best…”Since I got CVM everything changed. Everything became possible. I was able to find work and find a home. It gave me a new start on life.” With 44 sites nationally and growing CVM is an incredible tool for empowering the homeless throughout the country. Now we are very excited about providing this program to the residents of Ft. Lauderdale.

Being homeless entails so many disadvantages -- and for years this community has responded with shelters, meals and counseling. These efforts are essential and compassionate. The homeless men and women need one more piece of the puzzle to get them connected -- a phone number to give somebody for a call back. It hurt their self esteem and often meant missed opportunities -- now they have it

This program has the potential to extend to the entire South Florida region with support of our great community. For agency participation and or financial support please contact Gerald Peterkin Program Director for CVM.

gpeterkin@help4homeless.org
Phone: 954-792-4000

Public Concern.....

2008-09-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

Public concern about homelessness in the United States has increased in recent years. A late 1995 Gallup poll found that 86% of Americans feel sympathy for the homeless, and 33% report that they feel more sympathy now than they did five years ago. According to the same poll, one reason for this apparent increase in sympathy is that 17% of Americans, primarily women and young adults, believe that they could become homeless.1 The fact that these groups are concerned about homelessness reflects, in part, two decades of increases in the visibility of homeless women and children in the United States. Published reports suggest that most homeless families with children are headed by single women between the ages of 26 and 30 who have never been married and have two children.2

Because shelter is a basic human need, it is not surprising that the effects of homelessness on children and families appear to be harsh and multifaceted. According to one study, homeless women are significantly more likely to have low birth weight babies than are similar poor women who are housed.3 Others report that, compared to the general population of children, homeless children have twice as many health problems, are more likely to go hungry, and have higher rates of developmental delay; and although findings have not been consistent, higher rates of depression, anxiety, and behavior problems have been reported for homeless children.4 Because, however, as discussed in this article, collecting reliable and comprehensive information about the population of homeless families with children is very difficult, accurately estimating the size, scope, and impact of homelessness among families with children in the United States has been almost impossible. 5 Estimates of the size and composition of the population of homeless families and children are important, however, to understand the etiology and consequences of homelessness, to design effective programs and policies to address the problem, and to evaluate whether interventions are working.

This Child Indicators article focuses on available data on homeless families and children. First, it reviews different definitions of homelessness and the most common methods used to estimate the size of the homeless population. It then examines data on subgroups of homeless children and youths in the United States and considers the duration of homelessness for families with children that use shelter services. Finally, it examines trends in the numbers of families who are at risk of losing their housing.

Estimates of the size of the homeless population vary, depending on the definition of homelessness used. Even when definitions are clear and consistent, the methods used to count the homeless differ widely. Estimates of the number of homeless at one point in time or for a period of time can be made. In practice, homeless families and children are a difficult group to find and track, and few estimates that focus on children specifically have been made. Using a variety of techniques, the U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO) estimated that between 80,000 and 400,000 children were likely to be homeless or doubled up, living with friends and extended family, on any given night in 1988. Based on the GAO's "best" estimates, many more children were doubled up (186,000 in 1988) than living in shelters or other community settings provided for homeless families (68,000 in 1988). The length of homelessness for families tends to be short (less than three months), although there is evidence that a small group of families is homeless for years. Data on trends in actual homelessness are not available, but trends in the number of single-parent families in extreme poverty, conditions that tend to precede homelessness for families, suggest a large increase in the population of potentially homeless families since 1975.