We arrived at the parking lot across from Sojourner House about 5:30pm and we had visitors arriving right away. Tonight we had Brent, Pastor Mike, Deb, Michelle, Sarah - a visiting social work student, Mariah, Barb, and Sam. It is rewarding to know that we are a viewed as a constant for people in a world of uncertainty. While we offer items that may be needed as well as the food, water and juice, sometimes I think that many of the people that come to see us are in need of non-material things and we are happy to oblige in a sense of community with a handshake, a hug, a prayer or simply an ear to listen or a share a laugh.
As you may be aware, we have been working with five trafficking victims. One of the women came to see us this evening, while it was good to see her and know that she is okay, her presence reminded us of the dangers, especially for women, of being on the street. She has some medical concerns and was not sure how she was going to make an appointment with her doctor without a phone or knowing how she would get to the clinic. By the time she left us, I think we had a realistic plan in place for her. We've had contact with three of the other women within the last two weeks and will continue to support them in their needs. Each person we meet has a unique story, we're going to begin documenting those histories so that we may better serve them in their needs, be it finding counseling or medical services, legal help, housing, anything that may be of use during their journey to a safer and brighter future.
We also have six people in jail at this time that we're caring for and visiting. It is important for them to know that they are supported and not forgotten.
On another note, two of our friends who have been on the streets for several years each have both been accepted into the Western Dairyland program "Housing First" and have gotten apartments! Both people stopped by and they look fantastic, the stress of being homeless weighed heavily on them and for a very long time they appeared rightfully exhausted and despondent. Today they both walked a little taller, their moods reflected their relief, it was a joy to see a side of them that I've never seen before. They have multiple requests for their new place, I'll add the list to the end of my note.
The change of seasons upon us is very obvious when the sun goes down, it gets cool quite quickly. While we have received many hoodies, we will need more to pass out, especially in the XL + sizes. We are trying to be prepared and are requesting all winter wear: gloves & mittens, coats, hats, and hand warmers.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Please continue to pray for those in need.
KAREN
As you may be aware, we have been working with five trafficking victims. One of the women came to see us this evening, while it was good to see her and know that she is okay, her presence reminded us of the dangers, especially for women, of being on the street. She has some medical concerns and was not sure how she was going to make an appointment with her doctor without a phone or knowing how she would get to the clinic. By the time she left us, I think we had a realistic plan in place for her. We've had contact with three of the other women within the last two weeks and will continue to support them in their needs. Each person we meet has a unique story, we're going to begin documenting those histories so that we may better serve them in their needs, be it finding counseling or medical services, legal help, housing, anything that may be of use during their journey to a safer and brighter future.
We also have six people in jail at this time that we're caring for and visiting. It is important for them to know that they are supported and not forgotten.
On another note, two of our friends who have been on the streets for several years each have both been accepted into the Western Dairyland program "Housing First" and have gotten apartments! Both people stopped by and they look fantastic, the stress of being homeless weighed heavily on them and for a very long time they appeared rightfully exhausted and despondent. Today they both walked a little taller, their moods reflected their relief, it was a joy to see a side of them that I've never seen before. They have multiple requests for their new place, I'll add the list to the end of my note.
The change of seasons upon us is very obvious when the sun goes down, it gets cool quite quickly. While we have received many hoodies, we will need more to pass out, especially in the XL + sizes. We are trying to be prepared and are requesting all winter wear: gloves & mittens, coats, hats, and hand warmers.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Please continue to pray for those in need.
KAREN