We usually feel overwhelmed
when we hear about homelessness because we think it takes many
people to do something about it. But often it starts with one
person or a few people.
While I was on a speaking tour I discovered that many Presbyterian
churches love to serve homeless people but few seemed to have
a concept of ending homelessness itself. Does it make sense
in such an affluent country like ours that so many people have
no home to live in? Many secular agencies are focusing on a
housing-first model. In the past, a homeless person didn’t
get a house until after he or she had complied with all of the
treatment plan. Now it is the other way around; housing is given
first and then service and treatment start according to individual
needs.
Have you as an individual or as part of your church ever thought
about sponsoring or mentoring one homeless person or one family
by renting an apartment for them? This is a very easy alternative
to endless charity giving.
How can you do this? Contact a homeless project in your area
and work in partnership with it. Imagine what would happen if
every church in your city participated in this every month and
every year!
You can end homelessness! It can start with one or two people.
Who is that person or persons in your church? Miracles can occur
because our Lord Jesus Christ will be with you and will help
you, work with you, and even carry you.
—Jean Kim, retired associate for homelessness issues,
Women’s Ministries and Presbyterian Hunger Program |
