Camp Q successfully moved from its location of the last 90 days to a secure spot at The United Churches, Capitol Way at 11^th Ave. near downtown Olympia. About 15 residents worked with community volunteers all Saturday moving the tent city for homeless persons from the Universalist Unitarian Church on Olympia's west side to the United Churches, a Presbyterian and Church of Christ faith community. The location is a five minute walk to the opulent state Legislative Building and a ten minute walk to downtown Olympia.

Camp Q is now in a secure spot on a parking lot behind the church building facing Washington St. An attractive cedar fence acts as a privacy screen. The entrance is staffed by volunteers and camp residents around the clock as part of a Comfort and Safety Team in an effort to address neighbors' concerns (volunteers VERY much needed).

Please come to Camp Q's open house at United Churches Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. Meet the residents, church staff and members and many others dedicated to helping Camp Q's residents in their journey from the woods and streets toward home and hearth with dignity and justice. Learn how you can volunteer with the camp Safety and Comfort team (much help needed here!). Housekeeping note: if you drive to the open house please, please, please (!) do not park in neighboring business lots, especially across Washington St. Carpool, bus, bike or walk if you can. See you Thursday.

The United Churches of Olympia is hosting Camp Quixote, Olympia’s tent city, beginning Saturday, May 19, 2007. This is a response to an emergency need for housing for the 20 people who live in Camp Quixote. The Camp leadership screens for sex offenders, and has strict self-governance. In order to address community concerns for the safety of the surrounding property, and in order to buffer the residents of Camp Quixote from negative community responses, there will be a 24/7 troop of trained Comfort and Safety Hosts.

Each host will undergo training on what to do in various situations, and will be provided with a list of telephone numbers and community resources. The hosts will be the eyes and ears of the community, and will be the connection between the Camp leadership and the community.

Please contact the Comfort and Safety Host Coordinator, Deborah Reynolds, at 480-6361 or by e-mail, deborahreynolds@comcast.net if you have questions about the Comfort and Safety Plan or Hosts.