Let’s band together to help the homeless

The fifth annual Sleep Out for the Homeless on Nov. 13-14 was organized by Linn County Veteran Affairs and the Community Circle of Care. Thanks to many other agencies, vendors and individuals, it was an overwhelming success. We collected more than $19,000.

Eight homeless people showed up, seeking cardboard to sleep in, food and shelter from the frigid night. This is the first time this has happened, demonstrating the rise in homelessness Linn County is facing. We found only one opening in a shelter that night. Our committee provided what food we could, with a hot drink, and most homeless slept in the First Presbyterian Church.

The Sleep Out is about raising awareness and raising funds for homeless shelters and programs. Special recognition to First Presbyterian Church for hosting the event, Carla Davis of Mix 96.5 for promoting the event and the Cedar Rapids Parks Department for allowing us to set up in Greene Square Park.

As a nation, we need to address the causes of homelessness and provide more affordable housing.

Donald Tyne

Linn County Veteran Affairs