Downey Counts

Counting the homeless in Downey:  Pastor Christie Melby-Gibbons of the Moravian Church of Downey has helped to coordinate an effort in our community to provide services for the homeless. Tonight was the beginning of that effort. A group of civic leaders (including Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard pictured above with Christie) and concerned citizens met at the Moravian Church for a training meeting in preparation for the first step—counting the homeless. Volunteers also prepared hygiene kits for the homeless who agree to participate in the survey. The kits include hygiene products, a fast food meal card, and a fleece blanket.

Mayor Mario Guerra attended. Here he is being recorded by Downey's own documentary filmmaker, Julian Park.

It's not too late to get involved. The homeless count and surveys will take several nights. If you are interested in helping, email Pastor Christie at christie@downeymoravian.org.

“Sometimes it's easy to walk by because we know we can't change someone's whole life in a single afternoon. But what we fail to realize is that simple kindness can go a long way toward encouraging someone who is stuck in a desolate place.”
~Mike Yankoski