Churches, synagogues in N.H. aid homeless

NORTH HAMPTON, N.H. (AP) — Ten churches and synagogues in New Hampshire's coastal area have begun a project to provide shelter, food and other help to homeless families.

The Seacoast Interfaith Hospitality Network is believed to be the first such effort in the state.

Under the program, families in 13 towns who have children under 18 are eligible for free overnight shelter and meals at nine area churches, plus transportation to a North Hampton center that helps with jobs, job training and housing.

Network director Diane Stradling said some people are literally "living out of a suitcase," or in their cars or in campgrounds.

She said the area has only two year-round shelters. Hampton's schools have identified 82 pupils with no permanent address, she said.