Our guide's name was Pete, and he was on fire for the Lord. We got to tour around the city a bit, and became expert transit users, but Pete taught us a lot more than just how to use the subway.
He had us confront our fears about what homeless people were like.
We met homeless people who had made it off the streets, and even went to a church that was full of homeless people. The service had all of the youth in awe at how beautiful these people really were.
You don’t need to be afraid of them.
Even though a large percentage of homeless people have mental illnesses, it doesn’t mean they want to hurt you.
If you take the time to have a conversation with them, and love them like the Lord loves them, you will find some amazing people.
Maybe you’re interested in getting involved, and you’re wondering what you can do to help.
- Talk to your church and see if they want to tackle helping the homeless as a local missions initiative.
-Get a group of friends together and take a trip to the city. Bring along a parent or two, and make a day of talking to and buying food for homeless people.
Don’t feel like venturing out into a big city? No problem! You would be surprised at how many places you can help the homeless in your town.
You can volunteer at soup kitchens or shelters, and donate your used clothing – just to name a few ideas.
If I could give you any advice on going with a church or friends to help the homeless: Don’t expect to be the changer, but the changee.
Sometimes the homeless know God more than we could ever understand, and they love Him, and trust in Him. Be open to how the Lord wants to use you!
Here are a few tips on how to interact with the homeless:
1 Get Down. Never stand when talking to a homeless person who is sitting. Make sure you’re at their level.
2 It’s NOT a Photo Op. Don’t take a picture of or with a homeless person. It gives off the vibe that you are interacting with them for attention. It's not selfie time!
3. Buy them Coffee. Pete called what we were doing: “Hanging out with the Homeless.” Ask them if they’d like a coffee or something to eat, and buy it for them. (Don't give them money. Purchase them a meal, or warm beverage instead.)
4 Chill Out. Relax. Don’t look at what you’re doing as this big thing, but instead look at it like you’re talking with an old friend.
IT WILL BE AWKWARD! But it gets a lot easier with practice, and it’s always worthwhile!
So get out there and get helping!
Want more info? visit: www.hungerhomeless.org & nationalhomeless.org
Or try a Google search for even MORE ideas on how to help the homeless.
About the Author:
Jaye Sloat is an eighteen-year-old, proud Canadian, but an even prouder Christian! She is studying Church Ministries at Providence University College and Seminary, in Manitoba, Canada. When she's not in school, she lives at home with her parents and two shih tzus (Pepper and Macey).
Her favorite Bible verse is Galatians 2:20-21 . Stay connected on her social media accounts, Instagram @JayeSloat & Twitter @JayeSloat