Program to focus on homelessness in Valley

Staff report

CANFIELD

Many people have opinions on why folks end up homeless and how to solve the problem of homelessness. Few, though, have spoken with someone living on the street.

Terry and Vicki Vicars of Youngstown have. For many years they’ve worked as advocates for the homeless and are sharing their expertise in the presentation, “Homelessness: Stories from Our Streets,” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 13 at The Ursuline Center, 4250 Shields Road.

The public is invited to attend the program, which will be offered in the library. Those attending should park in the pool parking lot at the east side of the building and use the Silver Sneakers entrance. A donation of $5 is requested and can be paid at the door. For information, call 330-799-4941.

“It has been humbling and very moving to walk with people who have spent weeks, and even months, living in shelters, tents, abandoned houses or even in their cars,” said Terry Vicars. “We endeavor to tell the stories of individuals and families who have struggled with homeless situations here in the Mahoning Valley and often, in spite of incredible odds, managed to once again provide homes for themselves and their children.”

The Vicars’ presentation will cover some root causes of homelessness, the barriers that people in homeless situations face, and how people of faith can respond with compassion and mercy.

The couple have lived in the Mahoning Valley for 28 years. A case manager for Catholic Charities in Youngstown, he has served the needs of the homeless for 19 years. His wife has worked in religious education for various Catholic parishes for 26 years. As advocates for people in homeless situations, they act as a conduit between them, social service agencies, and generous people in the community anxious to share a helping hand.

For those involved in religious education through the Diocese of Youngstown and planning to attend, two hours religious education credit have been applied for.