Community Resource Exchange makes direct impact
By Jon Fine

Access to basic services can be challenging, confusing and close to impossible when you don't have a permanent address, phone number or dependable transportation. This is why United Way of King County organized Seattle area's first-ever Unite to End Homelessness Community Resource Exchange events in Seattle at the Seattle Center on November 13 and in Renton at the Spirit of Washington Event Center on November 15.

More than 400 volunteers and service providers helped more than 1,000 homeless individuals with access to vital services all in one place, in one day. People enjoyed hot meals and took advantage of free health services, flu shots, hair cuts, voicemail account setups, legal assistance and DSHS benefits. Free long-distance phone calls allowed guests to connect with friends and family - some for the first time in years. Also available were referrals to other important services such as housing, counseling, employment training and ESL classes.

While we are working to permanently end homelessness in King County the Community Resource Exchange events served people's immediate needs and provided them with valuable services and connections that would otherwise take days or months to access. As part of our goal to end homelessness, we are looking forward to making the Community Resource Exchange a regular event.

Not only did the Community Resource Exchange provide vital services in a centralized location, but it offered a powerful personal connection, for both the clients and volunteers. "I was blown away by what I participated in today," said one volunteer. "Seeing the direct immediate benefit of this event was truly heartwarming and energizing."

We're grateful to all of the event sponsors for their support including Fannie Mae Foundation's Help the Homeless program, Providence Health & Services Washington/Montana and Seattle Seahawks. We would also like to thank all of the volunteers and service providers who generously gave their time to make both events a success.

Your help is vital to our work. Consider volunteering and learning more about what you can do to help end homelessness in our community.

Find out more about the Community Resource Exchange and share your event experiences.

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