By Michael Thompson, Contributing Writer
The school year is beginning after a long and too-hot summer, and many teachers and students will consider community service projects, including outreach to the homeless. Intentions may be honorable but care and advance planning are crucial. For example, I once encountered a high school class that volunteered to serve a Christmas lunch at a shelter. Two key mistakes occurred. First, the kids simmered the chicken soup noodles for two hours. Normally that might be okay, but these were ramen noodles. Yuck! One may be homeless and hungry, but even then, the appetite has limits. Second, the students (or their parents) made some high-quality afghans as gifts. This was a wonderful and thoughtful idea, but alas, there weren't enough afghans to go around. Not wanting to exclude anyone, the kids wrapped some alternative gifts. Unfortunately, these were mere canned food items. One shaggy fellow opened his can of beans, somewhat understandably took offense, and started cussing. The whole deal was a disaster. The class adviser should have known better, and the high schoolers were old enough to know better, too. Therefore my first tip for school projects to support the homeless is to always put oneself in the other's shoes, making sure dignity and personal respect are the top priority. Don't look down on homeless people, either intentionally or unconsciously. Consider projects other than feeding. Homeless shelters and rescue missions by and large have that covered. A class might consider providing entertainment at the shelter, bringing along school musicians or performing a skit. Caroling works good during the holiday season. Think of interactive things to do, as simple as breaking into groups for card games or board games. (A lot of older guys, homeless included, know dominoes. They might get a charge -- and some self-worth -- from teaching the kids to play.) Story telling is another idea; a student tells a story, then a resident, taking turns. Above all, aim to schedule several visits rather than just one, which can seem sort of like a hit-and-run. Establish a relationship. What the heck, maybe the school system could bus the shelter residents out to the school for a visit.
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by Michael Thompson, Contributing Writer
Parishioners may wonder what their churches can do to help the homeless, other than to raise funds or to donate food to a shelter. Bridge of Hope, organized through Evangelicals for Social Action, offers another option -- adopt one homeless family, and personally help pave the way toward permanent solutions through stable housing, gainful employment, personal growth and positive friendships. "It can be daunting to consider the needs of all homeless families in the United States," acknowledges Edith Yoder, Bridge of Hope national director. But then, notes Yoder, the number of churches also is large. "If each church reaches out to one homeless family, one by one we can make a difference," Yoder says. Bridge of Hope provides professional training for churches, or combinations of churches, to operate their own support projects. So far, Bridge of Hope supports 17 local affiliates in seven states through Evangelicals for Social Acton, which also publishes PRISM magazine in the spirit of the Bible's Numbers 13: 19, 20; What kind of land do they live in? Is it good or bad? ... How is the soul? Is it fertile or poor? Are there trees in it or not? Do your best to bring back some of the fruit of the land." SOURCES: BridgeOfHopeInc.org PRISMmagazine.org by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer Imagine being a child and having nowhere to go at night, no blanket to sleep with, no basic necessities to take care of yourself, and only the streets for shelter. This is the life of some. But you can help. With minimal cost and some creativity, you can give one or more homeless kids a backpack full of items that will help them get through it. Most shelters will appreciate a drop-off of such a package. An alternative is to donate to a charity that already provides this servoce. Project Night Night explains to people how they can help a homeless child with essential comfort items. Each Project Night Night package includes a security blanket, an age- appropriate children's book, and a stuffed animal. They come in portable canvas tote bag that can easily be tossed over a child's shoulder for convenience. No child should have to go without warmth. They may also need simple comfort items, such as a stuffed animal and a book. Security, comfort, and warmth are especially important fpr a child without a place to call home. These bags cost less each than a cup of coffee. I am a long-time supporter of this charity. I encourage all who can to consider donating through the Project Night Night site. *Hugs and Love!* ~ Lyn “The most called-upon prerequisite of a friend is an accessible ear.” ~ Maya Angelou Are you accessible to those around you? Be it business or personal, you should always lend an ear. Not only can being accessible strengthen trust and relationships. But it is also vital to solving important issues. What does this have to do with poverty or homelessness? Think about it. In order to be successful in getting the most help out to those who really need it, a program needs to be very accessible. Also think in terms of support and encouragement. Like Ms. Angelou says, lend an ear. Listen to your client, friend, or family member in need. I mean really listen hard and be there for them. That is the first step to helping someone succeed in life. Without the inspiration and desire to do so, all the assistance in the world is not going to matter. If someone is not encouraged, it will be a wasted effort. If you offer help that is not easily accessed, it is a wasted effort. But when you are accessible in times of need, this can make all the difference in someone's life. So, the next time a client, acquaintance, or friend comes to you for help, be accessible. Centennial Hall will become a one-stop event for service providers to lend a hand through Project Homeless Connect on Monday. This will be the second time Juneau has hosted the event, which will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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