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Emergency housing vouchers
The Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) program is available through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Through EHV, the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is providing 70,000 housing choice vouchers to local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) to assist individuals and families who are: homeless; at risk of homelessness; fleeing, or attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking; or were recently homeless or have a high risk of housing instability. If you meet one or more of the following criteria, contact the Northlake Homeless Coalition by calling 985-326-8312 or emailing nlc@northlakehomeless.org.

School supply give-away
There will be a school supply give-away on Friday, July 30, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. at the Town of Franklinton town hall, for students in pre-K through 12th grade. School supply donations can be dropped off at the town hall, 301 11th Ave., between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays. Monetary donations can be made out to “Cash” or by calling the following phone numbers: 985-515-0268, 985-516-0001 or 985-515-7827. This event is hosted by the Franklinton Social Planning Committee.

Tourism commission
The Washington Parish Tourism Commission is seeking interested citizens to fill an open commission seat. Consider spending a few hours each month evaluating matter that helps shape the future of tourism in our community. Commission Members serve a three-year term. Applicants must be a resident of Washington Parish at least 18 years of age. The Commission is seeking candidates from the Enon, Isabel, Plainview areas as a priority. All interested persons should still submit a resume. This is a volunteer position. Send your resume to wptour@bellsouth.net or mail to Washington Parish Tourism, 1950 Washington St., Franklinton, LA 70438. The deadline is Saturday, July 31.

Barber/Warren family reunion
The Barber/Warren family (descendants of Sam Warren and Ira Barber) reunion will be Saturday, Aug. 28, from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Pine Masonic Lodge. Bring a covered dish, old photos and enjoy the day with family. For any questions, call Lois Warren Tynes at 985-848-5986.

Master Gardener classes
Louisiana Master Gardener volunteer training courses are scheduled for Aug. 11 through Nov. 17 in Washington Parish, and Aug. 12 through Nov. 18 in Tangipahoa Parish. Class members will read specified materials, watch videoed lectures, and attend in-person meetings. In-person meetings/laboratories are scheduled for Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. until 4 p.m. in Franklinton, and Thursdays from 1:30 p.m. until 4 p.m. in Amite. To get an application or ask questions, contact Horticulture Agent Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson (mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850). Applications are due by Friday, July 2. A fee of $185 and a background check will be required for those who are accepted and choose to enroll.

Legion bingo
Bingo is back at the American Legion building every Thursday. Masks are not required. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Alert system
Stay alert by enrolling in the Washington Parish Emergency Notification System. This alert system provides rapid notification of emergencies, critical events and urgent situations. The alert system can send notifications through the following methods: phone call, text, email or TTY/TTD service for the hearing impaired. Landline phones are automatically entered for the alert system. To receive alerts through a mobile phone or email, a citizen must register through one of the following options: call 985-282-2620, text “Alert” to 985-282-2620, or sign up online at www.hyper-reach.com/lawashingtonsignup.html. Citizens can also download the Hyper Reach Anywhere app to any smartphone. This alert system is completely free.