It is estimated that over 600,000 people are homeless on any given night. Some reside in shelters, but many are unsheltered and out on the streets, braving weather extremes and going hungry. There are many ways compassionate souls can help the homeless.
Lots of people volunteer at shelters to serve holiday meals, but how many do it the rest of the year? The homeless need good food all year long, so if volunteers committed to helping out a few more times a year, many more could be served. If volunteering doesnât fit your schedule, make a few sandwiches before heading out to run errands and give them to any homeless people you see on the street.
Donating items to a shelter is another way to help. Cash and food are always welcome, but coats, gloves, hats, and blankets are much-needed items in the winter. Some shelters offer assistance in job placement, so donations of business suits and other work clothing are needed to help people look their best for job interviews. And donât forget the little ones — childrenâs clothes, toys, diapers, and formula are high on the list of needs for shelters.
Volunteering your expertise can also make a difference. Lawyers and medical professionals can offer free services at shelters. The possibilities for donating your time and talents are endless, whether you are a writer who can help with resumes or a hairdresser offering free haircuts. Sharing your talents not only provides a needed service but also offers a deep human connection to the homeless, who may think society has given up on them.
Every little gesture can help bring a homeless person one step closer to reintegrating into society. Know that your efforts do make a difference, and encourage friends and family to follow your lead.
We’d like to thank Miss Sue Lang on this contribution to our web page.
For most people, the holidays are a time of sharing a cozy home with friends and family. Not everyone is so fortunate to find the holiday season a time of celebration or plenty; with the ongoing economic problems, more and more families are struggling and some may even lose their homes. The number of homeless in America has increased sharply over the past several years, and the holiday season is especially difficult for many who have no place to turn to for a meal, shelter or warm clothing.