Huntsman Visits Utah's Homeless

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) When community advocate Pamela Atkinson made her weekly rounds to deliver supplies and TLC to Salt Lake's homeless last week, she took a special guest:

"I had not told them I was bringing the Governor around," says Atkinson. "They were just delighted to meet the Governor because he was so friendly and warm. They just relaxed with him and talked about their circumstances."

Atkinson says Governor Jon Huntsman asked to accompany her on a visit to several homeless campsites and the Homeless Youth Resource Center. Huntsman has been to the homeless shelter many times, but appreciated the chance to meet some of the people who continue to live on the streets, says Atkinson. This year, she plans to ask the Governor and state lawmakers for another one-point-two million dollars to provide outreach, transitional services and housing for Utah's homeless.

"We just wanted to let the Governor see first hand how that money is used," says Atkinson.

She makes weekly visits to homeless campsites and outreach centers in Salt Lake City. She is the state's preeminent homeless advocate and namesake of the state-based Pamela Atkinson Homeless Trust Fund.

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom. Copyright 2008 KCPW