Clearwater Human Needs Council holds first meeting

Everyone has basic human needs for such things as security, adventure, freedom, exchange, power, expansion, acceptance, community and expression, explained Maria Ward at the beginning of the newly formed Clearwater Human Needs Council (CHNC).

Representatives from a variety of government agencies, churches, service organizations and individuals gathered last week for the first meeting of CHNC. The majority of the meeting was spent having a representative from each organization explain the ways that they offer assistance to people whether it is education, housing, food, funding for particular needs, clothing or etc. Knowing what is available to help people and where is valuable for those who work with those who are in need and networking encouraged by this type of exchange is key in providing for all needed services. The purpose of CHNC is to better coordinate and serve the needs of individuals in the county.

Among those represented were: Clearwater Valley Hospital, Community Action Partnership, State Hospital North, Lewis Clark State College Outreach, Idaho Housing, United Methodist Church, Ascension Lutheran Church, Seventh-day Adventist Church, Adult Learning Center, Salvation Army, Brookside Landing, Idaho Department of Corrections-Idaho Correctional Institution-Orofino, Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Idaho Department of Commerce and Labor, Weippe Youth Center, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare-ACT, S.L. Start, Joint School District #171-CRW, Inclusions North, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare-Child Protective Services, Clearwater Health and Rehabilitation, North Central District Health Department, Hans and Louise Mathieson and Window on the Clearwater.

During the remainder of the meeting, possible goals and organizational structure were discussed for consideration before upcoming meetings. How the group will proceed will depend on decisions agreed upon by participants.

The next meeting has tentatively been scheduled for March 21. Watch for further details in Window on the Clearwater.

For further information on CHNC, contact Maria Ward 476-5771 or email: wardm@idhw.state.id.us.