Despite homelessness declining in Lincoln, events like Project Homeless Connect are vital

In 2012, the homeless coalition says there were more than 900 people without a home in Lincoln on any given night.

But with improvements on getting those people into homes faster, that number has been cut in half.

“We’ve really refined that and have made some great strides as a community,” Organizer of the event, Lee Heflebower said. “Just last week we were able to announce we’ve ended veteran’s homelessness.”

Another way the capitol city is supporting the homeless is through events like Project Homeless Connect.

It  provides the homeless with the resources they need, all in one place. It’s tenth annual event was held at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Tuesday.

A homeless man here in Lincoln, named Richard, came for the first time this year.

“I’m really impressed. There’s a lot of services I didn’t know existed,” Richard said.

He said his first stops were getting new haircut and coat.

“I work at the Salvation Army store and I’m the public eye a lot and my hair was just a little long,” Richard said.

Haircuts and coats are just a few examples of resources offered at Project Homeless Connect.

There were health clinics, legal assistance, connections to non–profits across the city, and even a portrait booth.

The volunteers said it’s just as beneficial to them as it is the clients.

“It’s wonderful to see that if they need a coat, they’ve got a coat. If they need shoes, they’ve got shoes,” said Lynne Herr, a two-year volunteer. “If they need a dental visit, that’s all taken care of, all in one stop for them.”

But it’s not all about getting check–ups or services, it’s about building relationships and breaking down barriers.

“For a lot of these people it’s uncommon to have someone sit down and listen to their story and even that can make a big difference for someone,” Heflebower said.

Richard said that’s something everyone should remember every day, not just at events like this.

“Respect everyone,” he said. “You’ll be surprised by how generous homeless people are.”

The event was over at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, but non-profits offer their services all year long. To get a list of what’s offered in Lincoln download the app MyLNK.

To look for volunteer opportunities visit https://www.volunteerlinc.org/