Homelessness
Have you ever wondered what you can do to help the homeless people in our city? Sometimes it's hard to know the right thing to do. Here are a few suggestions of helpful ways to make a difference.
Eight Ways to Help the Homeless
From the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions
1. Never give cash to a homeless person.
Too often, well intended gifts are converted to drugs or alcohol - even when the "hard luck" stories they tell are true. If the person is hungry, buy them a sandwich and a beverage. You can also carry coupons for local restaurants and pass them out if you are asked for money. Some stores that have dollar menus will sell coupons in $1 denominations.
2. Talk to the person with respect.
Taking time to talk to a homeless person in a friendly, respectful manner can give them a wonderful sense of civility and dignity. And besides being just neighborly, it gives the person a weapon to fight the isolation, depression and paranoia that many homeless people face.
3. Recognize that homeless people (and their problems) are not all the same.
The homeless are as diverse as the colors of a rainbow. The person you meet may be a battered woman, an addicted veteran, someone who is lacking job skills...the list goes on.
4. Share God's love whenever you can.
If Jesus were walking the earth today, He would certainly spend time with the homeless. He would speak with them, heal them, and help them. Today, Jesus chooses to work through those who believe and follow Him.
5. Pray for the homeless.
Exposure to the elements, dirt, occasional violence, and lack of purpose all drain years from a person's life. God can use your prayers and the brutality and the futility of life of the street to bring many of the broken to Himself.
6. Take precautions for your own safety.
Some people living on the streets are criminals and fugitives running from the law. Always be prudent while talking with street people. Stay in areas where other people can see you. Don't take unnecessary chances.
7. Encourage the homeless to get help through Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission.
Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission offers immediate food and shelter to the homelessness through our emergency shelter in Center City. We also offer long-term recovery programs that deal with the root causes of homeless.
8. Support Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission.
The Mission is supported by caring individuals, churches, businesses, and civic groups who see the value of sharing their resources with the less fortunate. The Mission can provide a meal for just $1.87, which is much less than what it would cost a homeless person to purchase a meal.
