On Tuesday, November 14^th, The Salvation Army hosted hundreds of Chatham County’s unsheltered citizens during the Stand Down for Homelessness Resource and Job Fair at their Community Center in Savannah.

“This is a way for us to have everyone here in one space at one time, to have every single service unit available for individuals,” said Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless Executive Director, Jennifer Dulong. “So whether its housing applications, whether its intake and assessment applications, whether its healthcare – mental health, dental care, eyeglasses, haircuts, showers, hygiene products…and just getting them connected with services. Our goal is that unsheltered individuals living in our community, specifically those living in places not meant for human habitation, will get access to services.”

Maj. Jason Smith, Corps Officer with The Salvation Army, added, “Today isn’t about a band aid. Today is about going around and doing a holistic approach and serving our neighbors in need.”

To show Chatham County’s commitment to serving those experiencing homelessness, Chatham County Commission Chairman Chester A. Ellis presented the Homeless Authority with a proclamation, designating the week of November 13^th through the 21^st as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week in Chatham County.

“I came today to show the County’s involvement in our homeless situation here throughout Chatham County and all the municipalities to let the homeless know that we do care about them, and we’re trying to meet their needs, and to provide them with shelter and their needs here in Chatham County,” Chairman Ellis said.

The Salvation Army estimates 800-900 people attended and received various services, including members of the homeless veteran population.