TROT plans resource fair for those in need

For those suffering from homelessness or at risk due to shaky economic times, an upcoming resource fair will be offering services and information.

"Tahlequah Cares – Community Outreach" is set for May 4, beginning at 1 p.m., at Norris Park and under the pavilion on Morgan Street. Free food, health checks, vision screenings and glasses vouchers are a few of the services that will be available.

Members of the Tahlequah Resource Outreach Team heard plans and requests for help at the April 11 meeting. Ward 4 Tahlequah City Councilor Josh Allen is spearheading TROT and coordinating the event.

"Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program enrollment and SoonerCare will also be available, and Oklahoma College of Optometry will be there for vision screenings and vouchers," said Allen.

Musicians are still needed, and Allen requested the word be put out for artists willing to volunteer.

Agalisiga "Choogie" Mackey has said he will be there to perform, Jonathan Hook said.

The Men's Shelter is donating hygiene kits for those who want them, as well as reusable water bottles and blank journals. Free bike repairs – within reason –  will beoffered by Tahlequah Trails Association.

Tahlequah Public Schools Outreach Center plans to sign people up and inform them of resources available through this program.

A flyer is being designed, and organizers hope someone will donate the printing. Also needed are job leads for those seeking employment.

"Work Ready Oklahoma" with the Zoë Institute will be on hand, but more job leads are needed, Allen said.

Cherokee Nation Office of Veteran Affairs will help veterans sign up for programs. Veterans should bring their paperwork if possible. 

Mayor Suzanne Myers said tables will be provided by Parks and Recreation, and all vendors have to bring are their giveaways and information.

Volunteers are needed to give haircuts, and donations of food and cash are being requested.

Success stories are being solicited, and a couple of folks have said they are willing to share their stories and how they managed to rise above homelessness.

"We heard at one of the recent events at the First United Methodist Church that a Spanish interpreter was needed, so we want to make sure we have someone at the event," Jonathan Hook said. 

Clothing donations are needed, and a suggestion was made that resale shops might offer vouchers. 

Learn more

For more information on the event and how to participate, contact Josh Allen at jallen@tahlequah.gov or visit the Tahlequah Resource Outreach Team Facebook page.

What's next

The next regularly scheduled TROT meeting is May 8 at 3:30 held in Council Chambers at the City Administration Building at 111 S. Cherokee St.