SE Valley Times

Tempe, AZ - Last week's Project Connect event in Tempe proved to be a success as nearly 120 unsheltered individuals and families received assistance with life-changing resources. The event, organized by Keys to Change in partnership with University Presbyterian Church, aimed to provide support to those in need.

Among the guests in attendance were people from different walks of life, including seniors, families with young children, and individuals seeking housing and job opportunities. One of the attendees, Trent, expressed his needs for a sober living home, employment, and clothing, stating, "I need housing and work. When I'm working I'm pretty steady."

Reflecting on the event, Holly Charlie, a resident at the city's shelter, emphasized the importance of community support, saying, "People care. When you're out on the street, you think you're all alone."

Various service providers were present at the event to assist guests in accessing resources such as housing support, healthcare screenings, job search assistance, and more. Women4Women Tempe also provided feminine hygiene supplies and a warm welcome to individuals like Elevar Maximus, who shared her experience of homelessness, highlighting that individuals without homes can still be professionals.

Additionally, Project Connect featured a raffle for 10 bikes and locks donated by St. Vincent de Paul, which offered practical transportation solutions to individuals like Nicole Gantt, who needed access to housing resources and medical appointments.

Volunteers played a crucial role in the success of the event, providing support, meals, clothing, showers, and a welcoming atmosphere to all guests. Volunteer Kevin Brown expressed his satisfaction in being able to interact with and assist members of the community in need, stating, "This event allows me to interact with the less fortunate members of our community."

The attendees were not only provided with essential resources but also received care packages, including lunch, fresh-baked bread, and Girl Scout cookies. Furthermore, reusable water bottles with contact information for the CARE & HOPE Line were distributed to ensure ongoing access to support services.

In conclusion, Project Connect in Tempe demonstrated the power of community collaboration and compassion in assisting unsheltered individuals. As stated by one participant, "This is amazing. We know that people care."