MERCER COUNTY Being aware of homeless

At the request of the Mercer County Housing Coalition, Mercer County commissioners have declared November Homeless Awareness Month in the county. Events include:

Nov. 2: “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes.” Walkers will begin at Reyers parking lot in downtown Sharon. A candlelight vigil will follow. Preregistration is requested by calling Natalie Higbee at (724) 346-5777.

Nov. 22: Penn State’s Human Development and Family Studies Club will sponsor a float for Hermitage’s Light Up Night. Several community groups are assisting the coalition and plan to walk alongside the float. All are welcome to join them.

A countywide essay contest for high school students is being conducted on the subject “What Homelessness Means to Me.” The winner will receive an educational gift card.

A coalition Web site designed by volunteer Debra Williams of Penn State was recently launched at www.mercercountyhousingcoalition.org.

Purple magnetic Homeless Awareness ribbons are on sale for $3 and $5.

For more information on any of these events, call Natalie Higbee at the Center at (724) 346-5777.

Source: Mercer County commissioners