Representing the Plymouth Street Ministry today were Barb, Sam, Mariah, Deb, Michelle, Pastor Mike and myself. We served about 36 people, all gracious souls who count on us being there every Tuesday and Friday for support and friendship.
A woman that we've known for a few months asked to talk privately, she reported being raped at a park over the weekend. She did report the incident to the police and a medical exam was also done. Her story is unfortunately not that uncommon. While many of the homeless people in our community are vulnerable, women especially are subjected to unsafe conditions. A statistic of concern is that if a woman stays on the street for more than two months, her risk of experiencing some sort of assault is up to 80%. We've seen women and girls come to us with bruises, with stories of violence they've experienced including sexual assault. Over the last few months, the Street Ministry has adopted a policy that all females are asked if they are safe or need to talk and we always encourage them to contact us for any reason, especially if they feel unsafe. Often the women we're most concerned about have a male with them, we strive to separate them so that the female volunteers have a few minutes to talk and assess the situation with the reminder to contact us if needed.
Some of our regulars did not come to see us, I always wonder where they are and if they're safe. After being on the streets regularly, it seems we're a sort of family and I am always hoping that where they are, all are safe. We did, however, have a couple of newcomers and we will support them as needed.
As always, THANK YOU for your support, interest and prayers. Please review the wish list and if you feel led to donate, let us know!
Karen
A woman that we've known for a few months asked to talk privately, she reported being raped at a park over the weekend. She did report the incident to the police and a medical exam was also done. Her story is unfortunately not that uncommon. While many of the homeless people in our community are vulnerable, women especially are subjected to unsafe conditions. A statistic of concern is that if a woman stays on the street for more than two months, her risk of experiencing some sort of assault is up to 80%. We've seen women and girls come to us with bruises, with stories of violence they've experienced including sexual assault. Over the last few months, the Street Ministry has adopted a policy that all females are asked if they are safe or need to talk and we always encourage them to contact us for any reason, especially if they feel unsafe. Often the women we're most concerned about have a male with them, we strive to separate them so that the female volunteers have a few minutes to talk and assess the situation with the reminder to contact us if needed.
Some of our regulars did not come to see us, I always wonder where they are and if they're safe. After being on the streets regularly, it seems we're a sort of family and I am always hoping that where they are, all are safe. We did, however, have a couple of newcomers and we will support them as needed.
As always, THANK YOU for your support, interest and prayers. Please review the wish list and if you feel led to donate, let us know!
Karen