-Homeless shelter ministry When I was young, the predominant homeless person was a drunken man or a broken down elderly widow. Social security has lifted many of the elderly out of poverty but we are seeing an increasing number of families. While welfare sustains many poor families, there is a great need for low cost housing that they can afford. As a result, we are seeing an increasing number of families while shelters for families fall far below the need, particularly in rural areas where families often bunk up with friends moving from house to house until they run out of friends. Some are homeless up to two years before seeking a shelter. Many are fearful of taking their children to the city where poor neighborhoods often contain violence and drugs. Single men and women are gravitating towards the city where most shelters for singles are but shelters are short-staffed and crowded. Churches can help shelters financially and with donations of food, clothes, and other needed items. Church members can also volunteer helping with food prep, childcare, parenting and Bible classes, and sorting donations.
Archive for the ‘Homelessness’ Category
Eleventh Sunday of Pentecost-Aug 14-A
Homeless shelter ministry-Many people think of drunks and drug addicts when they think of homeless shelters but a growing number of families are ending up in shelters when they lose their housing. Life can be boring and never ending when there is very little to do, especially for children. Donations of magazines, books, toys, and personal items are always appreciated. In addition, volunteers are needed to provide activities. Churches with buses could take residents to free activities such as museums and collect money to pay their way to ball games, the zoo, or other activities, enabling them to get out and do things they might not otherwise be able to do. Many men and women could use help finding employment, getting their GED, or simply getting clothes suitable for job interviews. Even such things as haircuts and manicures are helpful.
Previous Posts 13/15
This is the thirteenth in the series of previous posts and highlights
Courts, employment, homelessness, and housing
Click on the links below to access those series.