By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

“We know there are people in our community struggling with housing.  They go to our churches.”

Rev. Jerry Nolte is senior pastor at the Hays United Methodist Church and a member of the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance.

Nolte and Alliance members Rev. Celeste Lasich of First Presbyterian and Rev. Lesley Radius of Trinity Lutheran are working  with First Call for Help Director Linda Mills to better help the homeless in Hays.

“We know there are people who ‘couch-surf’ or stay in long-term motel rooms,” said Lasich.

A free chili supper tomorrow evening at the Hays National Guard Armory, 200 Main Street, is open to all Hays residents.  They will also have the opportunity to talk confidentially about their housing situation with a trained volunteer.

“Those who attend will also receive gifts of new underwear, socks and toiletries,” added Nolte.

Information collected in the surveys will be utilized by the Hays Housing Coalition.  The project is part of the “Point in Time” survey, a national effort to identify Americans challenged by housing.

The chili supper will be held 4-7p.m. Saturday or while supplies last.  The chili is provided by Wendy’s restaurant and local churches.   Childcare will be available.