WARREN, Ark. – A good size group of some 20 local citizens of Warren and Bradley County met Tuesday evening March 8 at the First Free Will Baptist Church of Warren to discuss the issue of homelessness in our community and to consider ways to help those in need. The meeting was a combined effort of Bro. Ricky Ruals of the Bradley County Ministerial Alliance and the Warren Branch Library. The Library is the recipient of a grant that has been used to provide food and other needs for the homeless and low income. Part of the requirement for the grant called for a public meeting to discuss ways to assist the homeless.
Representing the Library were Librarian Sandy Doss and Library Staff Member Christie Ward. The Library is a leader in working with the homeless and the Ministerial Alliance helps as best they can to assist them in various ways. According to Sandy Doss, the grant received provided 55 backpacks full of items to help the homeless and others in need in December of 2021.
Efforts are ongoing to come up with more permanent solutions. It was noted that many of the homeless have mental or substance abuse issues and others have been hit with abuse or some type of serious economic issue. It was mentioned that the blessing box at the Library is being heavily used and individuals and churches have done a great job of keeping it stocked. The need is ongoing and everyone is urged to help as they can. Carry donations to the Library.
Those present broke up into groups to discuss the problem and possible solutions. After about twenty minutes each group reported their ideas and thoughts. Ideas centered on finding out who the homeless are, what caused their problem and try to address their specific needs to get them out of a homeless existence. A very good and frank discussion was conducted.
It was noted that law enforcement is not the solution until a crime is conducted. Being homeless is not illegal.
Present at the meeting were elected officials, service providers for low income people, City of Warren Law Enforcement and a variety of interested citizens. It was pointed out their are programs to help many that are willing to be helped. More information will be forthcoming.
Top photo: Community members met recently to discuss ways to help the local homeless population.
