Local homeless count planned

The United Way of Eastern New Mexico and other organizations in Tucumcari, Clovis and Portales are working to carry out a Point In Time count for people experiencing homelessness in the area.

The count is conducted to provide accurate data for U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The effort to hold an accurate count for New Mexico is being led by the NM Coalition to End Homelessness from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3 in the region.

Those wishing to help can join the Point in Time count process or donate items that will be given to those in need from Jan. 31 to Feb 3. For information, call the United Way of Eastern New Mexico at (575) 769-2103.

Items for the homeless will be offered at multiple locations during the count. The deadline to to donate is Jan. 30.

Suggested donations include:

— socks

— blankets

— hand warmers

— hats

— gloves

— scarves

— nonperishable lightweight food

— gift cards to restaurants such as McDonald’s

— wet wipes

— hygiene items

— sleeping bags

The drop-off point in Tucumcari from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3 will be Huffman Counseling and Wellness at 108 W. Center St.