Harford Health Care For Homeless Observes National Homeless Person's Memorial Day

From Hartford County Health Care for the Homeless Project: The local observance of National Homeless Person’s Memorial Day will be held this year on Wednesday, December 21st from 12:00 to 1:00pm. The event will take place outside the Bel Air Armory in the park located at 41 N. Main Street in Bel Air.

In remembrance of those who have died too early as a result of their homelessness, communities
across the nation have observed National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day on the longest night of the year
for the past three decades. People experiencing homelessness are three to four times more likely to die
prematurely than their sheltered counterparts, according to a study released by National Health Care for the
Homeless Council, wherein lower temperatures, higher housing and energy costs, and insufficient shelter
resources contribute to the problem.

“While seeking economic solutions for our country, we cannot forget our most vulnerable citizens”,says Harford County Health Officer, Ms. Susan Kelly. ”This observance brings attention to the tragedy of homelessness and serves as a call to action to end homelessness both locally and nationwide.”

Initiated by Harford County’s Health Care for the Homeless Project (HCH) in 2007, this will be the
tenth year that Harford County is participating in the national recognition of Homeless Persons Memorial Day.

This year, the Harford County Housing and Community Development office joins Health Care for the
Homeless at the Health Department in participating and promoting this year’s event. All community members,service providers, and consumers are welcomed and encouraged to attend this important gathering.

Health Care for the Homeless (HCH), in partnership with the Harford County Health Department,
provides a comprehensive system of health-related services to reduce the incidence and burdens of
homelessness in Harford County. HCH offers pediatric and adult primary medical care; in addition to social
work and case management services, at 1 N. Main St., in Bel Air, MD. HCH serves all persons who
currently, or have in the past year, lack a fixed, regular, and/or adequate residence.

Members of the general public who are aware of individuals who passed away this year without a secure place to stay, or those interested in additional information on Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day or homeless resources, should please contact Michele Buranen at the Harford County Health Department at 410-638-3060 by December 19th.

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