Safety First
- Safety in Numbers: Teams will be at least 2, 3-4 is better
- Teams go out in ONE CAR
- Have several flashlights - with extra/new batteries
- When pulling off the road - use car's hazard lights
- Don't feel safe? Then don't.
- Wear warm but BRIGHT clothing
- Charge all phones and have car charger to keep battery charged
- KNOW WHERE YOU ARE: Address, Intersection, Landmark
- If physical terrain is precarious, then Don't Go There
- We KNOW we won't find all homeless, but safety supersedes finding all homeless, therefore no tramping in the woods or exploring abandoned buildings.
COVID Safety
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Where to Look for Homeless
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Starting the Conversation
Hi, my name is Cathy. I am helping with the Home 4 Hope survey. We are asking people about their living situation. May I ask you a few questions?
...is it okay if we approach your camp?
...we are surveying those who are homeless to provide information to Home 4 Hope to improve services...
...It's okay if you don't wish to be surveyed, we have some water, fresh pair of socks we would like to leave with you...
...do you plan to spend the night here tonight?
Hi, my name is Cathy. I am helping with the Home 4 Hope survey. We are asking people about their living situation. May I ask you a few questions?
...is it okay if we approach your camp?
...we are surveying those who are homeless to provide information to Home 4 Hope to improve services...
...It's okay if you don't wish to be surveyed, we have some water, fresh pair of socks we would like to leave with you...
...do you plan to spend the night here tonight?
The Interview
- Participation is voluntary. Some may not want to answer all questions.
- We encourage persons to give us their names as this is an opportunity to document homelessness and keep from creating duplicates. If they don't want to give their full name, try First Name and Last Initial. When you introduce yourself try pausing after you say your name and allow them to respond with their name.
- If someone is asleep, conduct an OBSERVATION ONLY count getting as much information as possible.
- Thank them for participating.
- If your Team has hygiene kits, water, or socks, offer it as an additional Thank You.
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