The Tamaqua Salvation Army extended its hand to the homeless, hopeful that they would stop in for a hot meal and warmth, possibly even sign up for lodging nearby.

Through the agency’s involvement in the nationwide Point in Time Count, volunteers were able to help several people who are down-and-out, said Major Sharon Whispell of the Tamaqua Salvation Army.On Friday, Whispell said the group technically had contact with 10 people. Of those, she said only two agreed to be housed.The agency offered a stay at Granny’s Motel in Frackville.Jesse Durning gave food and drink to the others, “and shared with them that they’re able to come to the Salvation Army at any time if they want our help,” Whispell said.Regardless, Whispell thanked the volunteers who assisted in the endeavor, and said it was due to their efforts that the group was able to reach out to those less fortunate.The group began its participation in the nationwide Point in Time Count Wednesday, as volunteers prepared soup, along with ham and cheese sandwiches, turkey cheese sandwiches, chicken noodle soup, snacks, hot chocolate, coffee, and tea inside the Tamaqua Salvation Army building.However, not a single homeless person stopped by the building that day.Since then, volunteers took to the streets to encourage the homeless to come inside, get warm and have a warm meal.Information on ways to get off the streets was also made available.The Point in Time Count is carried out in Schuylkill County to determine the number of homeless people in any given community.The effort is spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, with the goal being to find ways to end homelessness.The count determines how funding will be distributed in the future to help those experiencing homelessness, or at imminent risk of being homeless.The funding allows nonprofit providers, and state and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals and families, while minimizing the trauma and dislocation those who are affected experience.It also allows agencies to educate and optimize self-sufficiency among those in homeless situations, ultimately contributing to the overall vitality and future growth of our hometowns.