As the second anniversary of the opening of Roy's Desert Resource Center rolls around the corner, we may wish to pause and think about what this Season really means for the homeless. For many, December 21, 2009 ushered in an important alternative to sleeping in a car or out in the elements. This day brought hope.

You see, along with a warm bed and filling meal for men, women, and families, other much needed services are offered at Roy's. Employees at Roy's assist in teaching living skills to the clients, including budgeting instruction. Assistance is also offered by way of housing placement, employment assistance, community referrals and access to benefits, access to education, and transportation to and from the shelter. For clients suffering from mental health and substance abuse issues, services in these areas are also offered. Of course, Roy's also covers urgent needs such as nursing services, clothing services, transportation and meals.

CVAG remains grateful to its member jurisdictions for their contributions. Although those contributions continue, given the economic climate, contributions have been on a decline. Fortunately, the Friends of Roy's Foundation has been formed and is steadily working on finding other sources of funding. CVAG staff also continues to seek grant opportunities to ensure the continuation of Roy's.