"No one has ever become poor by giving." -Helen Keller
Homeless.
Dirty.
Poor.
In need.
And ignored.
We tend to ignore homeless people for multiple reasons:
- Skeptical that they actually need money and aren't just lazy and jobless.
- Assume they will use money for drugs and alcohol.
- Fear of it being a trap of robbery or theft, susceptible to danger.
- Think they are middle-class citizens "dressing up" as homeless people to take advantage of people's money.
These all seem like legitimate reasons why we shouldn't bother helping those who are out there on the street holding a cardboard sign.
So why should I tell you otherwise?
Here's why:
Homelessness typically results from an economic crisis, which could be caused by any number of circumstances: loss of a job and inability to get another job, housing-related costs and foreclosures, a relationship ending or family break-up, sudden and/or prolonged illness, substance abuse that ruined their lives, severe and persistent mental illness, physical and intellectual disabilities, and many other life-altering situations.
There are even many veterans of the United States who served our country and put their life on the line for us, who are now homeless. And we just ignore.
The CAUSES of homelessness are enough of a reason to help those in need. They have lost almost everything because of their unfortunate situation, regardless of what that situation is.
Did you know:
- 1 in 4 homeless individuals is employed full- or part-time.
- 1 in 4 homeless individuals is a child.
- The fastest growing homeless group in the United States is families with children.
- Many homeless people have completed high school; some have attended college and even graduate school.
As you can see, there is a chance that they might have a job... or have completed school... or have a car... or have a phone... but it doesn't mean they are scammers or not in true need your help.
Homeless people are those living without a true home and can't afford one (rent or own).
- Living in a tent isn't a true home.
- Living in a car isn't a true home.
- Living in occasional motels or on people's couches isn't having a true home.
- Living in the homeless shelter isn't a true home.
Here's another perspective...
Even those who are NOT homeless and are doing okay financially still need help with personal or family issues, abuse, addictions, and other crises in their lives.
We would be quick to help these people in their difficult times, so why should we hesitate to help those who went through similar situations, yet additionally dirty, poor, and homeless?
We would be quick to help these people in their difficult times, so why should we hesitate to help those who went through similar situations, yet additionally dirty, poor, and homeless?
Yes, some homeless people may be drug addicts or alcoholics. But they are really in need of help, too.
Yes, some homeless people may be scammers.
Helping the homeless doesn't always mean giving them money, but care and hospitality. It can be food, clothing, shelter, work, etc.
- If they don't want what you have to offer them, they are probably scammers or currently struggling with a serious addiction and only interested in one thing.
- If they do take your food and hospitality, they are probably in need and will be thankful for anything you offer them.
A blessing bag for the homeless doesn't require giving hard cash, but serves as a hospitality bag for those who are in need.
It's a little gift of kindness that can benefit them and bless them that week.
Keep a few of these in your car so you will be ready to give one next time you comes across a homeless person.
In a large, durable plastic bag, container, sack or Ziploc bag, insert the following:
In a large, durable plastic bag, container, sack or Ziploc bag, insert the following:
- Snacks (granola bars, nuts, crackers, etc.)
- Water bottle(s)
- Thick socks
- Gloves, scarf, beanie (for fall/winter)
- Small size package of baby wipes
- Hand towel
- Bandaids (put a few in a Ziploc bag)
- Wet wipes
- Chapstick
- Hand warmer packs (for fall/winter)
- Canned goods with an easy-open tab top (optional)
- Small to-go package of kleenex
- Sharpie (for their signs)
- Rain pancho
- Hygiene products (optional: toothpaste, comb, deodorant, bar of soap, etc)
- $5 bill (optional)
- $10 gift card to a common fast food restaurant (such as McDonalds)
- Small bible (optional)
- Small note with encouraging words of love and kindness
Things to AVOID inserting in the bag:
- Sharp objects (utensils, nail clipper, etc)
- Drug, tobacco or alcohol products
- Medications (pain killers, cold medicine, etc.)
- Pepper spray
- Liquid medications (rubbing alcohol, anti burn/itch creams, etc)