By Jeff Skrzypek

EUGENE, Ore. -- One of the area's largest homeless outreach events is in need of more donations. The annual Project Homeless Connect for Lane County is set for Thursday, March 18 at the Lane Events Center and Fairgrounds.

The one-day event provides services and basic necessities to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The event offers free on-site medical exams, dental checkups, vision care, hot meals, haircuts and basic provisions. In addition, more than 80 local service agencies provide information on housing, employment, education, legal counsel, addiction treatment, and a variety of other services.

Organizers say they need the following items: coats, hats, gloves, socks, sleeping bags, children's clothing and backpacks, as well as personal hygiene products, such as hand sanitizers, shampoo, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Donations may be dropped off at St. Vincent de Paul store locations in Eugene, Springfield and Florence. Items must be labeled "Project Homeless Connect."

Businesses, organizations, schools or churches interested in collecting items prior to the event may request donation barrels for their respective venues or call 541-682-3798 for details.