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Group Holds Vigil For 21 Who Died Homeless In D.C.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Homeless advocates are holding an all-night vigil for homeless people who have died this year in Washington.

The vigil begins Thursday evening at Freedom Plaza on Pennsylvania Avenue. Organizers say they have identified 21 people who have died homeless in the District of Columbia this year.

On Friday, advocates and formerly homeless people will hold a rally at Freedom Plaza at 9:30 a.m., calling for affordable housing and more shelters to keep people off the streets. The participants will hold a funeral march at 10:30 a.m. to honor those who died and will hold a memorial service at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church.

This is the 24th year of memorials for those who died homeless. The events are organized by the National Coalition for the Homeless and other groups.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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