Murrayland Youth

Featured

Assignment Australia Hopes to take a stand against homelessness, but because of all of the additional appeals for donations, it’s difficult to know which ones to assist. What will it take to shake people out of their daze, to awaken the people so to speak? Assignment Australia hopes to do just that. In order to get people’s lives back to normalcy, it’s going to take a unified effort.

Currently, research has exposed that 100,000 Australians are homeless, and close to one in five individuals will be sleeping outside; some will only have a tattered blanket to warm them, and perhaps others will only have a newspaper. Living on the streets can take a toll on one’s health, as well as cause depression and loneliness in so many. But even when homeless people reach out, they often face further issues. Some of which includes being turned away and given no viable treatment options, and other times they may be ostracized or abused in some fashion.

For our purposes, we hope to create a defense against this issue, and often in only a few steps, many homeless can be back on their feet again. From mental health services to training assistance, we will reign in all supportive powers to influence homelessness for the better. We hope to stop the crisis—before it becomes too large, before it gains a foothold, and before lives are submerged into catastrophe.

Just last week Assignment Australia recognized its merit, as it engaged with aboriginals in many specific ways to facilitate better communication and harmony in life. More specifically, after commencing in a relationship with the Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research and Australian affiliates, we explored a vast array of issues: we examined community governance throughout the world, namely its policies on cultural, social, and economic features. In addition, we viewed possible alternate means of governance and the manner in which those methods may improve the aboriginal communities. We hope to create a collaborative method of communication among the indigenous populations. In the process, there will be improved governance, and a more humane way of carrying out laws pertaining to various communities. Continue reading

How to Help First-Hand

While writing a generous check to a charity or church is great, you might be wondering what else you can do to help the homeless. However, some might fear that monetary hand-outs could help fuel drug or alcohol addictions. Here is a collection of steps you can take to provide a helping hand to those in desperate need of it without supporting unhealthy habits.

Supply shoes and a large pack of socks. If you see the same homeless person every day, take a good look at their shoes. In four-season climates, worn shoes could mean frostbite and infections. Purchase boots several sizes larger than you would think they wear and drop them off with a package of thick athletic socks. The homeless person can then wear layers of socks and still put on their boots to keep their feet warm and dry.

Other clothing items such as thermal undergarments, coats, hats, gloves, mittens, and fleece throw blankets are appreciated. In warmer climates, fresh socks, sandals, and t-shirts are good choices. Always give out items that are a bit too large. Too-small clothing is worthless, while items that are too large can still be used.

Donate bus tokens, prepaid calling cards, postage stamps, or free meal coupons. The homeless need to eat and charities cannot always feed everyone who arrives. Homeless individuals also need to make phone calls and conduct business by mail, whether it’s calling an estranged family member or contacting social services for assistance. If they have to appear in court or go to the other side of town for help, the bus tokens will get them there.

Make up cards detailing the addresses and phone numbers of shelters in the area. Tuck a card into any donation you give out. This will help them find a place to eat, sleep, or shower if their usual methods fall through.

Giving to the homeless is a natural extension of human empathy. Be safe as you distribute any gifts, and be sure to offer a kind word or two. Often, the greatest gift to the homeless is that of treating them with dignity and compassion. Continue reading