The City of Grants Pass will conduct a public open forum to discuss winter warming stations for the homeless 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, in Council Chambers at City Hall, 101 NW “A “ St.
In a report delivered at a council workshop Monday, Sept. 16, director of Parks and Community Development Lora Glover provided details about programs currently conducted to address the need for winter warming stations in four neighboring cities. Surrounding local cities partner with volunteer organizations and faith-based groups to provide stations for homeless in need, the report revealed.
“It really takes a community partnership,” said Glover.
Glover conducted research and obtained information from the cities of Lebanon, Ashland, Medford, and Roseburg. In each city, a local church or collection of faith-based venues serve as the location for temporary warming stations when needed.
It requires “pulling potential future partners together to create the program,” Glover said.
During council comments on the report, council members requested a round table discussion with potential community partners and service providers. The open forum will serve as a precursor to the future roundtable so that members of the public can provide additional information and comments.
“I want to hear from members of the community who have data available for a needs assessment,” said council member Valerie Lovelace.
“I’d like to have that information frontloaded to us so we can come prepared to participate in the discussion,” said Faszer.