The purpose of the Fall River Homeless Service Providers Coalition's (HSPC) is to create a quality continuum of effective, coordinated services and safe, decent and affordable housing that will transition homeless people from instability to independence. As part of their work, the HSPC has organized an annual Homeless Connect event at Bristol Community College. The opening of this year's event, emceed by Community Development Homeless Coordinator Mary Camara, included remarks by Bristol Community College President John Sbrega, Fall River Mayor Sam Sutter, Providence VA Medical Center psychologist William Carr, veterans Charlie Lewallan and James, and remarks by Community Development Agency Executive Director Michael Dion. Mr. Dion went on to present the first annual Rev. Donald S. Mier Humanitarian Award to Rev. Mier who has been instrumental in organizing the overflow shelter for the homeless over the past five years. "The Coalition thought it would be important to recognize on a yearly basis one individual who exemplified the words 'Community Champion'," stated Dion. "We are very lucky to have a Community Champion among us," he continued before praising Rev. Mier for his work. After accepting the award, Mier gave a poignant reflection on the words of Mother Theresa. Click here for a 12-minute video of the presentation. Click here for photos and video of the Connect event. For more information, contact Mary Camara at 508-679-0131. (Photos courtesy of Brian Pearson)

(Top row) ommunity Development Homeless Coordinator Mary Camara introduces Bristol Community College President John Sbrega. (Row two) Fall River Mayor Samuel Sutter delivers some brief remarks before Providence VA Medical Center psychologist William Carr speaks and then introduces U. S. marine Corps Veteral James for an inspirational story. (Row three) Veteran Charlie Lewallan talks about the importance of addressing the needs of homeless veterans before Community Development Agency Executive Director Michael Dion presents Rev. Donald S. Mier with the first annual Humanitarian Award. (Bottom row) Volunteer Al Araujo, First Step Inn Director Rosa Medeiros, _____________, Veterans James, Steppingstone staff member Mike Brant and SOCO coordinator Janet Riccardi applaud Rev. Mier before he delivers his reflection.