Around Columbia
Mayoral Candidates to Address Homelessness in Columbia
COLUMBIA, SC - March 4, 2010 - All nine candidates for Mayor of Columbia have agreed to participate in a forum Tuesday, March 16, to discuss issues surrounding homelessness in Columbia. The forum will be from 7 until 8:30 p.m. in Bostick Auditorium at the main branch of the Richland County Public Library, 1431 Assembly St.
The homeless population in Columbia and the Midlands is increasing. According to a recent survey, the number of people who are homeless in Richland County increased 17 percent from 2007 to 2009. Homelessness is a significant and visible problem that Columbia leaders have wrestled with for many years.
The forum will provide candidates an opportunity to discuss their position on the issues associated with homelessness, including housing and transportation and the role of the city in addressing homelessness.
“Communities that are successful in addressing the issue of homelessness depend on private-public partnerships,” said Anita Floyd, Vice President, Community Impact for United Way of the Midlands, one of the sponsors of the event. “The forum is an opportunity to hear the candidates’ ideas for addressing the issue,” she added.
Other forum sponsors include the Central Carolina Community Foundation and the Midlands Interfaith Homelessness Action Council.
WIS TV anchor Hannah Horne will moderate and the public is invited to attend.
About United Way of the Midlands
United Way of the Midlands is the most organized, efficient and accountable system for investing in the community. With more than 80 certified partner agencies, United Way works to identify and respond to the critical human service needs of Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties. Funds are raised through workplace campaigns, grant writing and individual donations. For more information, please visit www.uway.org.
