Officials trying to aid Reno area’s homeless

RENO -- City and county officials are trying to provide services and necessities for a growing number of homeless people who have established a tent compound near downtown.

The camp grew after winter shelters closed April 1 and delays in building a 70-bed women's shelter. Officials are conducting daily health, fire and safety inspections at the site on Record Street.

On Tuesday, Reno-Sparks Gospel Mission staff distributed fruit and about 200 packets of personal hygiene supplies, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap and deodorant.

They also asked the homeless what they needed to support themselves.

"It's hard to go out and get a job when you look like a homeless person, when you smell like a homeless person," said Rick Redding, Reno-Sparks Gospel Mission executive director.

Officials said they would interview the homeless this week and attempt to match them with services on June 13. Food stamp providers, senior service and housing agencies are being asked to participate.

"We're doing what we can to make it comfortable and safe there, but we need to work with the county to determine the long term plan," city spokesman Kevin Knutson said.

"We want to make sure that if there are any individuals who needs service out there, they have access to them."

Women at the downtown homeless campus have no access to showers. Knutson said female bathrooms are expected to open early next week.