The weather was beautiful this evening for us -- Brent, Pastor Mike, Barb, Sam, Mariah, and Michelle -- as we served the homeless. We served 38 people, including a mom and daughter that were once housed at Beacon House and are successfully living independently in an apartment. We are grateful for their occasional visits and happy we could be a source of support while they were in a shelter.
As usual, we were on the street from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. Its an hour and a half yet it goes by so quickly. There are many stories to hear, old friends to visit with, new friends to reassure and provide necessities to, bags of food and drink to pass out and supportive conversation among ourselves. Tonight we needed each and every volunteer to accomplish the above tasks efficiently, most importantly, being able to provide the social support that is in such great need.
We've heard through acquaintances that one of our women on the street is becoming increasingly depressed and has had thoughts of harming herself. We know our street family well and when one person is struggling more than usual, it is concerning to us. We'll keep a close eye on her and check in whenever we can as well as encourage her to reach out as much as she chooses to.
One man I'm particularly concerned about is now talking about his willingness to move into a group home. He's wheelchair bound and I've been talking to him since July and trying to help him get himself off of the street before snow flies. I know the city does a good job cleaning up the slushy snow but I am concerned about how he'll safely maneuver across the streets and sidewalks. I'm also concerned that he does not have optimal sensation in his lower extremities and wouldn't be safe from the cold if he's on the street.
We always appreciate any and all donations we receive, thank you so much! Right now we're in great need of 2XL or larger coats and 2XL or larger hoodies. Gloves and hats will be needed more frequently in the next weeks, as well.
Blessings to all and thank you for your support!
Karen
As usual, we were on the street from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. Its an hour and a half yet it goes by so quickly. There are many stories to hear, old friends to visit with, new friends to reassure and provide necessities to, bags of food and drink to pass out and supportive conversation among ourselves. Tonight we needed each and every volunteer to accomplish the above tasks efficiently, most importantly, being able to provide the social support that is in such great need.
We've heard through acquaintances that one of our women on the street is becoming increasingly depressed and has had thoughts of harming herself. We know our street family well and when one person is struggling more than usual, it is concerning to us. We'll keep a close eye on her and check in whenever we can as well as encourage her to reach out as much as she chooses to.
One man I'm particularly concerned about is now talking about his willingness to move into a group home. He's wheelchair bound and I've been talking to him since July and trying to help him get himself off of the street before snow flies. I know the city does a good job cleaning up the slushy snow but I am concerned about how he'll safely maneuver across the streets and sidewalks. I'm also concerned that he does not have optimal sensation in his lower extremities and wouldn't be safe from the cold if he's on the street.
We always appreciate any and all donations we receive, thank you so much! Right now we're in great need of 2XL or larger coats and 2XL or larger hoodies. Gloves and hats will be needed more frequently in the next weeks, as well.
Blessings to all and thank you for your support!
Karen