Volunteers Needed to Help Homeless

* As a past board president and 20-year volunteer for the Mental Health Assn. of Orange County (MHA), I am deeply saddened to known that bankruptcy-induced county budget cuts will force homeless mentally ill persons back on the streets. MHA for the past eight years has been a safe haven and refuge to almost 3,000 persons per year, providing a hot meal, shower, clean clothes, and the opportunity for psychiatric care, use of a telephone and establishment of a mailing address.

Without county funding, access to these services and others--stabilized housing, vocational rehabilitation and job placement--that promote self-sufficiency are being curtailed. This tragedy for these human beings will mean not only their not experiencing “a way out,” but an increased impact on our communities.

We who have supported and believe in the positive difference MHA had made in these lives have worked too long and too hard to just accept these consequences of failed county fiscal management. Our commitment to serving homeless mentally ill persons is unyielding.

We invite your readers in the private sector to share our success in providing a future for these most vulnerable citizens. Please call MHA at (714) 547-7559 to volunteer.

MARY-EVELYN BRYDEN

Fullerton