7 Ways to Help the Homeless
Those of us who work with homeless people are often asked, “What about those people with signs?” Honestly, most of these folks are not homeless. Rather they are relying on your guilt to produce compassion. Giving money might make us feel better, but it really won’t do much for the recipient. Many of them do what they do not out of financial hardship but for financial gain. There is help available, but they do not want to change their lifestyle. This is a problem across the country.
However, there are people who are struggling with being homeless and there are things we can all do. Thanks to the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions for the following suggestions about helping the homeless.
1-Never give cash to a homeless person, or one who claims to be homeless. Most often your well-intended gift is used for alcohol or drugs, even if their story is true. If the person says they are hungry, buy them something to eat or give them gift certificates to a local fast food restaurant.
 2-Talk to the person with respect. Being friendly and respectful can give them a sense of dignity. In addition to being a good neighbor, your attention helps them fight the isolation, depression, and paranoia that many homeless people face.
3-Recognize that homeless people and their problems are not all the same. The homeless are as diverse as the rest of the population. The person you meet might be a battered man or woman, an addicted veteran, a recently unemployed worker, or an adult who was once a homeless child. Remember, the homeless issue is not honestly portrayed by panhandlers.
4-Share God’s love, and pray when you can. Jesus would certainly spend time with homeless folks. He would speak with them, help them, heal those who asked, and pray for them. It isn’t necessary to pray on the street corner with the person, but what about remembering him or her during your prayer time later?
5-Take precautions for your own safety. The hard truth is that some living on the streets want to be there while others are criminals and fugitives running from the law. Always be guarded when talking with street people. Stay in areas where other people can see you, and don’t take unnecessary chances. For example, don’t open your purse and start looking for change. You and your purse both become an easy target.
6-Encourage the homeless to get help through a local rescue mission or similar organizations that offer ways out of homelessness. They offer healthy food, safe shelter, crisis counseling, and often they have intensive long-term programs for those who really want help.
7-Support local ministries, such as Evangel Home, The Fresno Rescue Mission and the Poverello House. These organizations and their dedicated, professional staff members are helping the homeless every hour of every day.
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