HOPE 2011, Food Drive and Services Aim to Aid Homeless

Campus organizations are invited to join in a food and clothing drive this week to help the homeless, veterans and those in need in Northwest Arkansas as part of HOPE 2011.

This week the 7hills Homeless Shelter is collecting food items that will be distributed during the third annual local HOPE event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25 at the Central United Methodist Church in Fayetteville. A list of needed food items can be found at the 7hills website. Donated items can be dropped off at the Shelter through Friday, Oct. 21.

Organizers of HOPE 2011 are also looking for donations of warm clothing, particularly socks.  Donations can be made at 7hills or the United Methodist Church until Oct. 25.

HOPE 2011 is fashioned after national events originally intended to assist homeless veterans that has grown to include anyone who needs assistance. Volunteers will provide free medical, vision and dental screening, haircuts, clothing, groceries, legal advice and veterans services during the one-day event. HOPE 2011is being held in conjunction with the Community Meals program at Central United Methodist Church, in an effort to reach the largest number of people possible.

“I believe this event has the potential to make an extraordinary difference in the lives of folks who have so little,” said Kevin Fitzpatrick, sociology professor, who holds the Jones Chair in Community at the University of Arkansas. “We have had great support from the community in putting this event together, but food and clothing donations are still very much needed.”