SUMMER WISH LIST Q What are the two most important things people experiencing homelessness need? With the weather beginning to change, we have updated our list, but we can always use coats and jackets. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: Socks Sunscreen, toiletries (individual or travel-size) Toothpaste, deodorant, chapstick Bottled water Paper products for the office GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) Men’s jackets (sizes L, XL, XXL) Women’s jackets (sizes M, L, XL) Ball caps, hats Fold-up umbrellas, backpacks A JOHN ALEXANDER Medical care, mental health care, safe shelter, food, clothing, water, and more are a package deal. No separation. All these things should be held right up there with drinking water, breathing clean air, and eating good food! The other most important things people experiencing homelessness need are acknowledgment, compassion, great consideration, understanding, and love from society as a whole. All of these are needed for our spirit and our emotional and mental needs. BRIAN AUGUSTINE There are so many things the homeless need. I believe a place to get clean – both body and clothes – and safe shelter year-round are the basic needs, but mental health and additional treatment are always in high demand. SHAWN CUNNINGHAM I think mental health care. I have mental health problems, and it’s a daily struggle. The people [experiencing homelessness] that I see who have mental health issues can’t get much help due to insurance problems. There’s only one place that accepts homeless people with mental health issues – Stout Street Clinic. Anywhere else wants top-of-the-line insurance providers. There are only a few shelters in the Denver area, and they are completely packed, and some people have to resort to sleeping outdoors, and then they’re harassed by law enforcement. JERRY ROSEN The most important things people experiencing homelessness need are good healthcare and a safe shelter, where one can feel comfortable in different surroundings. Also, good/healthy food is imperative. DENVERVOICE.ORG/VENDOR-NEEDS Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. or schedule a drop-off by emailing program@denvervoice.org. ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON. What do YOU want to ask? If you have a question or issue you would like vendors to discuss, please email community@denvervoice.org. June 2022 DENVER VOICE 5
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