Hundreds of people who are homeless got some much-needed help Wednesday. The San Diego Housing Commission held its 12th annual homeless resource fair at Golden Hall.
"I don’t even remember who told me," Willie Bradley said. Bradley said he moved to San Diego in the 1970s but was evicted from his home this January. "Someone said 'yeah hey they’re going to be passing out stuff at the civic center.'"
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This was Bradley's first time at the resource fair.
"It’s been tough," he said. "I’ve been out on the streets and money has been tight."
Bradley brought his dog Bunchie with him and was able to get him free shots and a microchip from San Diego County Animal Services.
"One thing I know, boy he barks at everything going on," Bradley said. "I’m glad to have him and he’s the perfect dog for me."
Bradley was able to leave his dog with the San Diego Humane Society and head into the resource fair. Once inside, he picked up a hygiene kit, clothes and snacks. Bradley was also able to get his blood pressure and teeth checked courtesy of Father Joe's Villages.
"Good news is no swelling or anything like that," Bradley said. He thinks one of his crowns may be coming off. " But they’re going to set me up for an appointment to get a full dental exam."
By 11 a.m. Wednesday, more than 500 people had shown up for the event. The San Diego Housing Commission said 845 total people came when the resource fair ended at 3 p.m.
"I was just mainly coming to try and see if I could get a clothing, maybe some blankets," Bradley said. " I haven’t got the shoes yet, still waiting on that."
Dozens of services were made available, including free vaccines.
"Flu shot, need that," Bradley said waiting for an influenza shot. " I don’t know if I got one last year or not, but I’m not sure so I’m not going to take no chances."
Bradley did not find a new pair of shoes and was not able to get a haircut, but he says the trip was well worth it.
"The volunteers that I’ve come in contact with made it easy for me today," he said. "At the end of the day, in my heart, I know that people really care."
The last thing on Bradley’s list Wednesday was checking out housing options and picking up a hot meal.
