2007-08-27 - Local Nonprofit Sponsors Fundraiser “Homerun for Homelessness”

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 27, 2007

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Barbara Garrett
Community Relations Manager
248-928-0111
bgarrett@chninc.net

Local Nonprofit Sponsors Fundraiser "Homerun for Homelessness"
Community Housing Network helps families with permanent housing

Troy, MI- Pat, her 9 month old daughter and 4 year old son ended up in a local shelter after losing her job as a receptionist because her son with special needs was hospitalized again. She was referred to Community Housing Network (CHN) by her Case Manager where she was accepted into their Homeless Leasing Assistance Program. "When Pat came to Community Housing Network she had been homeless for over 4 months" stated Marc Craig, President and CEO. "We recognize that permanent affordable housing is the number one way to end homelessness. Without a home of your own it is nearly impossible to get a job and create any stability for your family."

Pat is like so many other families in Michigan. Every year in Michigan there are over 30,000 homeless persons in families experiencing homelessness. The existing and most conclusive research identifies that lack of affordable housing is the primary cause of homelessness among families in the United States. "I reject the premise that there will ever be an acceptable level of homelessness in our community. The price of homelessness is simply too high, in both human and economic terms," said Marc Craig, CHN President and CEO.

Community Housing Network is helping to end homelessness by promoting inclusive communities through affordable housing. All of CHN's programs and services are directed towards helping end homelessness. "This is accomplished by providing community education and referrals, by creating more affordable housing and advocating for more funding and resources" stated Marc Craig.

On Thursday, September 20, 2007 members of the public will have an opportunity to help end homelessness and spend an exciting evening with baseball greats. Community Housing Network, Inc. and the HOMES Coalition are sponsoring the 7th annual Home Run for Homelessness banquet and auction featuring 1984 World Series Pitcher and Tiger Great, Milt Wilcox and other Tiger Alumni. The event will be held from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. at Andiamo Italia, 7096 East 14 Mile Road, in Warren. Proceeds from the evening will help CHN continue their efforts to end homelessness by providing affordable housing to homeless persons, those with disabilities, and other disenfranchised members of Oakland and Macomb Counties.

"Lack of affordable housing is the main reason that people become homeless. Having a home of your own is a fundamental right" said Marc Craig, "Today Pat has a home and her son is starting school with everyone else."