I hope all of you are doing well today. Here in Phoenix, it's Spring and the weather is warm and it should be warming up most everywhere else as well. I hope you're enjoying it.
There are a lot of folks around here who maybe aren't enjoying it as much. Homelessness has been an issue in many places for years. There's always plenty of debate on what we can or should do individually and collectively to help. There are many perspectives on the subject and most people have strong feelings on the subject.
Me personally, I feel like most people don't want to be homeless, and I'd like to help out a little, if I can. There's many volunteer opportunities - I have some friends that started a non-profit org that feeds hungry people. You can feed them yourself, or even give cash, right? You could volunteer with a mission....but when face to face with a person asking for money at a stop light, what's the appropriate thing to do?
I found a great little article put out by the Phoenix Rescue Mission (PRM), that has their recommendations for what you can do to help:
1 - Be Prepared. Have granola bars, water, directions and contact info for a mission (where they can get food and shelter), socks, or even a "panhandler pack."
2 - Talk with Them. Say Hi, start a conversation. Acknowledge them...they're human beings and a little bit of kindness can go a long way.
3 - Do Not give $$. PRM recommends giving alternatives like granola bars, clean socks, even a gift certificate for a restaurant, bottle water, sun screen, etc.
4 - Point them to a Mission. Is there a homeless shelter nearby, or a church shelter or food bank? PRM has referral cards to help people get there and get a shower, shelter and a meal.
5 - Pray. Pray that they get what they need, that the shelter workers have the strength and wisdom to assist those in need. Prayer works.
These are just a few guidelines on how you can quickly and easily help the person panhandling on the street corner. Places like the Rescue Mission still need funds to operate and volunteers and staff. There's many ways we can help.
Of course, not every person on the street wants your food or help....they may want cash instead. I don't know that I'm always wanting to hand over cash to panhandlers. I just printed some referral cards for the rescue mission, and I think I'll start being a little more prepared with some of the other recommended supplies to be able to give.
Find out where you can help in your town or city (if you feel compelled to help). There's so many ways you can help...if we all do a little bit, we can make a huge impact.
For Phoenix, here's the website for Phoenix Rescue Mission: http://phoenixrescuemission.org/
Here's a great list for Panhandler's Packs to give out.
Thanks All. A little kindness and compassion can really help a person who is living in such a vulnerable way...living on the street. You may never know how your small gesture may impact someone.
Have a wonderful week everyone...enjoy every moment.
Peace,
Tom
Holistic Therapy Solutions
www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com
