Have you ever been in your car waiting at a traffic light, then suddenly you notice someone holding a sign asking for money? Or perhaps you’ve just walked out of a grocery store or gas station and someone approached you and asked if you can spare some change. Depending on the city you’re in, it might be happening more than you’d like. It can be uncomfortable when someone shows up and asks you for money, sometimes the people can be very aggressive or intoxicated and you might wonder: “if I give them my hard-earned money what will they do with it”? “will they buy drugs and alcohol”? what did they do the money people gave them before?” If you’ve ever wondered that, perhaps it’s time we found a different approach to helping the homeless.
Homelessness continues to be a global issue and it seems to be increasing every year. Depending on the country you’re in, there may be several resources available for anyone struggling with such a crisis but sometimes those opportunities are not easy to find.
How to help
If you really want to help someone and give them a chance to rebuild their life you can do an online search for local resources in your area. You may want to begin your search by checking your country’s website first and then work your way down to your state, county, city, or province for outreach assistance. You can also check if there is a Salvation Army, Red Cross, local church, shelter, or hospital in the area that may provide assistance as well. Once you perform your search and find local resources that help people in need, organize everything you found then prepare it as a document. Provide business names, addresses, phone numbers, types of services they provide, and then add a date when you compiled this information.
Finally, once this wonderful list of helpful details is prepared you can print a few copies and keep them in your car, purse, or backpack. Now the next time you see someone in need you’ll really have something of value to give them.
Suggestions
If you met someone who grew up on the streets at a young age or lost everything and is trying to build a good foundation for themselves, here are some great suggestion you can share to the person who sincerely wants to change their life.
First, they will need a place to live and then find work. A good option is a hotel, motel, or apartment complex. Many of these businesses provide free or subsidized housing for their employees. This option may even include access to a washer dryer.
Second, they need food, most importantly healthy food. They can get a part time job at a restaurant where they can obtain a meal at a substantial discount or even for free. Another job option would be a grocery store.
Third, they need to have proper hygiene. It would not be right to assume everyone knows how to properly groom themselves and take care of their physical appearance and odors. Having access to a gym membership that provides showers is a great start. While they are there, they can have a decent workout to help their mental health and they may even find a job opportunity as well.
Forth, depending on the country they reside in, there are ‘most likely’ government/state assistance for anyone in a destitute condition. I have learned many people either do not want this help or do not know it exists.
Lastly, finding a place that provides all of the fundamental aid is ideal. That is why I support the Salvation Army, they offer programs that provide holistic care for anyone experiencing homelessness in addition to substance abuse.
Volunteer
If your personal schedule provides you with free time to support your community, consider becoming a volunteer. There may be several organizations in your area to partner with. A simple contribution of your time can have life-changing results for generations. Additionally, as you serve others, you may find it to be more joyful than you had anticipated.
