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Contact:
Bernie Schaefer
Phone: 314.977.1570
schaefbo@slu.edu
April 4, 2003
Operation Food Search offers a healthy meal preparation
demonstration during Monday's SLU Open Doors.
A week of activities raises awareness; provides resources
ST. LOUIS - On Monday, April 7, Saint Louis University opened the doors of the Simon Recreation Center to area homeless people, offering free clothing, food and more.
The SLU Open Doors event kicked off the annual "Homeless Awareness Week," April 7-11, during which the University is encouraging the entire community to see past the myths that surround homeless people and to reach out to those in need.
On any given night, there are 750,000 Americans without a home, and over the course of a year, as many as 2 million people experience homelessness for some period of time. Despite the stereotypes, homelessness affects a wide variety of people: young and old, men and women, healthy and sick, employed and unemployed. And all are represented in the local homeless population. It may be America's shame, but Saint Louis University is sending a message that one of the nation's worst problems won't be ignored.
During "Homeless Awareness Week," April 7-11, the University encourages the entire community to see past the myths that surround homeless people and to reach out to those in need. During the week, students talk with the homeless, visit local shelters and SLU literally opens its doors to those with nowhere to live.
Homeless Awareness Week Event Schedule:
SLU Open Doors
When: Noon - 5 p.m., Monday, April 7, SLU Simon Recreation Center
What: Close to 50 shelters refer approximately 500 homeless to SLU for assistance with legal and health issues, support groups, employment, meals served all day. Students raised more than $1,000 to pay for food to prepare meals.
Speakers Panel
When: 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 8, Ritter Hall 320.
What: Speakers include Teka Childress and Lorraine Stewart discussing alternatives to homelessness.
Visit to Homeless Shelter
When: 2:30-5 p.m., Wednesday, April 9, at a number of sites, SLU contact: Janelle Densberger: 977-5961, or Bernie Schaefer: 977-1570
What: More than 50 SLU students visit 5 area homeless shelters
Sleep Out in The Quad
When: 11 p.m. throughout the night, Thursday, April 10
What: Homeless Awareness Week Sleep Out
For more information about Homeless Awareness Week, call SLU's Center for Leadership and Community Service at (314) 977-2805 or email coc@slu.edu.
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Monday's SLU Open Doors drew hundreds of people who need help.
