Annual Mahoning County homeless count is Jan. 26-27

YOUNGSTOWN — The unusually frigid temperatures this month and the relocating of one of the city’s tent camps has focused attention on its residents, probably the last thing many of them want.

It’s a two-edged sword, said Terry Vickers, who works for Catholic Charities Regional Agency as a case manager for Case Management Outreach and Advocacy for the Community’s Homeless or COACH.

People have been living along the Mahoning River in tents for years without much being said or written about them, Vickers said.

But now, with the recent below-zero temperatures and several tents under the Spring Common Bridge in full view of vehicle traffic on West Front Street downtown, they have become very visible and a topic of conversation, he said.

Their main contacts with the outside world were public-service agency people who have services to offer if they want them.

Now, a Facebook page soliciting donations for them has been set up.

For the complete story, read Saturday's Vindicator and Vindy.com