Homelessness

July 13 2020

Why You Should Not Put These Items Inside Homeless Blessing Bags

SEO Team Helping the Poor, Homelessness 0

Someone making an offering at the church, one of the four types of giving according to the bible.

Published August 29, 2019

While blessing bags are always a good idea, we should give more thought to what we’re putting in them.

According to a formerly homeless mom, most items in the blessing bags are not what the homeless want nor need. Most importantly, some of those items can harm not just the homeless but also the community.

We know you just want to help and that will always be appreciated. But you’ll help them more by NOT putting these items inside the blessing bags.

1. Soap With No Proper Packaging

Soaps are incredibly useful for homeless people. Of that, there’s no doubt.

But most of the time, people just throw in the soap (and other toiletries) together with the food. As a result, the smell of the soap rubs off on it. This is especially true if the soap comes in a thin paper packaging.

If you want to give them soap (and other toiletries for that matter), be sure to put it in a separate ziplock bag. So when they spill or get wet, it won’t affect the food.

2. Sticky or Hard Foods

When you search the web on what foods to include in blessing bags, granola bars often come up on the list. While they are ideal in some cases, remember that homeless people don’t have ready access to dental services.

As such, they might find it hard to chew sticky and crunchy foods like granola bars and candies. As much as possible, stick to soft foods like tinned soup, crackers, cup noodles, and the like.

3. Sugary Foods

Since most homeless people have no access to dental care, sugary foods are also a no-no for them. Not to mention that it poses a health hazard for those with diabetes.

4. Perishable Goods

The idea of a blessing bag is that it will last the receiver for at least a few days. Since most homeless people live on the streets, they obviously don’t have access to a refrigerator. So if you pack foods for them, stick to non-perishable ones like chips, crackers, jams, etc.

5. Cash

There are a lot of reasons why a person ended up living on the streets. But it’s undeniable that many of them are in that situation because of addiction. This is why giving them cash is not the best idea. Instead of helping them, you might unknowingly be enabling their addiction. And that’s the last thing they need.

Instead of cash, you can give them coupons or restaurant gift cards that they can use to buy food and other necessities.

What you should on homeless blessing bags.

6. Religious Literature

Bibles and bible verses may seem like a thoughtful addition to a homeless blessing bag. And the homeless can certainly use an uplifting word or two.

However, you need to remember that we all have different religious beliefs. You might have the best intentions but it can come off as offensive for some.

If you really want to leave them some words of encouragement, choose quotes and sayings that have no religious implications. Or you can always talk to them and ask if they would like a bible. It’d be even better if you can spare a few minutes to read a bible verse to them.

7. Sharp or Bladed Objects

For their safety and that of the community, refrain from putting any sharp or bladed weapons in homeless blessing bags. This includes scissors, small knives, and steel forks among others.

8. Matches

Again, for security reasons, avoid putting matches, lighters, and anything that might ignite a fire. Aside from being a fire hazard, homeless people probably won’t have much use for it anyway.

9. Broken/ Worn Out Stuff

There’s nothing wrong with donating old clothes and stuff to those in need. But you must make sure that it’s still in good condition. If it’s not possible to donate new ones, then at least make sure that it’s not broken or have holes in them. Don’t give them things that you yourself wouldn’t use or wear. They are already at the lowest point in their lives. Don’t insult them further by giving them stuff that clearly belongs to the trash.

10. Canned Goods with no Pop-Top Openers

Canned goods are ideal for blessing bags. They last long and are very portable. But you need to make sure they have pop-top openers. Not many homeless people carry with them a can opener.

How NOT to Hand Out Blessing Bags

Aside from the contents of your blessing bag, how you hand it out also matters. Here are two ultimate don’ts when handing out blessing bags to the homeless:

Throw Them Out Your Car Window

This might sound really rude but it’s not unheard of. Some people really just open their car window and throw a bag of stuff to a homeless person they’re passing by.

Obviously, this isn’t the best way to hand out a blessing bag. In fact, it’s one of the worst things you can do to a homeless person or to anyone for that matter.

If you’re really in a hurry and have no time to park your car, approach the homeless person, and hand out the blessing bag gently, you can always donate it to your local charity. They usually have donation drives for the homeless.

Go Alone

This is more of a safety precaution than for any other reason. I’m not saying that homeless people are dangerous. But it’s inevitable to have some bad eggs here and there. And most of the time, it’s hard to distinguish them from the ones that really needed help.

To be safe, make sure you’re not going alone. Go with another adult especially if you have children with you.

Donate To The Poor Online

Our Father’s House Soup Kitchen has fed the poor and homeless over 90,000 full and nutritious meals since 1993. You can donate to help the poor and homeless through our christian charity online. Visit our homepage to find our online donation form.

About The Author

Judy Ponio is a full time blogger and is devoted to topics about charity, kindness, and Christianity. She is part of the Correct Digital, Inc SEO team, which is paid by private donors to provide website digital marketing services to this non-profit organization.

July 8 2020

Top Reasons Why We Should Help the Homeless

SEO Team Helping the Poor, Homelessness, Positive News 1

Published July 9, 2020

When you see homeless people on the street, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Are you one of those people who think they deserve it for making bad decisions in life? Or do you stop and ask yourself how you can help them?

Admit it or not, most of us do the former. We blame the homeless for their plight instead of trying to help them get back on their feet. As a society, we’re wired to distrust people who we feel are not making good contributions to the community. In the news and even in some movies, homeless people are often portrayed as criminals and spreaders of diseases.

Yet, few people realize that most of us are just one paycheck away from living on the streets. It only takes one failed relationship or the death of a loved one to turn someone’s life upside down.

Even the most level-headed person can find themselves losing everything with no one to turn to. So it’s not really about the decisions they make. It’s mostly about the circumstances that they found themselves in, to which there is no easy way out.

Thus, instead of blaming them for the things that are beyond their control, we need to help them. If you’re still not convinced, here are eight reasons why we should help the homeless:

1. They Are Humans, Just Like Us

No matter their skin color, religion, or gender identity, we all belong to the same race: humankind. We share the same experience. We all get hungry, feel cold, and need someone to understand us. This is basic for all humans. The only difference is you don’t have to worry about where to get your next meal. Or where to lay your head for the night.

2. They Need Our Help

We need to help the homeless because they need our help. It’s as simple as that. It doesn’t matter whether they can return the favor or not. You shouldn’t need any other reason to help someone other than the fact that they needed help.

3. When We Do Good, We Feel Good

Have you ever noticed that when you help others, you feel a different kind of happiness? It’s like this warm feeling spreading all over you that’s difficult to put a name to. That, my friend, is a rare kind of satisfaction that no amount of material wealth can buy.

4. We Are In A Position To Help

That homeless man you see on the street probably didn’t have the same opportunities that you had. That single mother who lives in the shelter didn’t have the same support system that you had. We need to help them because we are blessed to not be in the same situation that they are in. We have the resources that they don’t. In short, we are in a position to help and so we should.

5. It’s Our Chance to Make a Difference

Nelson Mandela once said:

We can change the world and make it a better place. It’s in your hands to make a difference.

Homelessness is a global human tragedy. But if we work together, we can make the world a better place for everyone. No matter how small the effort is, it can make a difference. You don’t have to be a billionaire to inspire change. We can all help end homelessness in our own little ways.

6. It’s Our Moral Obligation

As human beings, it’s our moral responsibility to help the most vulnerable members of our society. Even if your moral compass isn’t that strong, common decency dictates that it’s the right thing to do.

7. What Goes Around, Comes Back Around

You may have a stable job and a roof over your head right now. But there is no guarantee that you’ll still have them tomorrow. Most homeless people had jobs and didn’t imagine finding themselves sleeping on the streets. But then, in the blink of an eye, everything can change. Such is life, and that doesn’t exempt you.

This is why we need to help the homeless because what goes around, comes back around. When the time comes that we’ll be in their shoes, we can hope that someone would be willing to help us too.

8. You Can Help Them Have a Brighter Future

In a commencement address, Steve Jobs revealed that he was once homeless. Steve Harvey, Jim Carrey, Halle Berry, James Cameron, and many other famous people were once homeless. But they rose above their circumstances and became the successful people that they are now.

You see, most of the time, homelessness is just temporary. Sometimes, all they need is someone to help them get back on their feet. Contrary to popular belief, some of them are really trying. Thus, we need to help them become productive members of society again. That homeless kid living from shelter to shelter could be the next U.S. president or the next most notorious criminal in the country. It all depends on you.

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July 8 2020

How to Make DIY Homeless Survival Kits

SEO Team Homelessness, Positive News 0

Published July 9, 2020

People become homeless for a variety of reasons. Most of which stems from circumstances that are beyond their control. So instead of judgment and derision, these people need our understanding and compassion.

Even if you’re no Jeff Bezos or Bill Gates, you can still help end homelessness. A little help can go a long way. You can volunteer in homeless shelters or soup kitchens. Or donate to charities that are helping the homeless.

If any of the above isn’t an option, you can always make DIY homeless survival kits.

What is a Homeless Survival Kit?

When you’ve lost everything, your job, home, and the life you’ve carefully built, even the smallest things matter. A single sandwich or a bottle of water can be a lifeline.

This is what homeless survival kits are for our brothers and sisters who find themselves in such unfortunate circumstances. Most of the time, it’s all they have. And it’s the only thing that keeps them from freezing or starving to death.

There is no standard for homeless kits. But there are several considerations you need to make.

First off, most homeless people don’t have a steady place to stay. They move from one place to another. Thus, homeless kits must not be too bulky. They need to be able to carry it with them easily. It’s basically what its name suggests: “survival” kit. Only include essentials that will last them for a few days to a week at most. If you don’t have the funds, even just a day’s worth of essentials will do.

Another thing you need to consider is the material you pack the goods in. Remember that homeless people have to brave all kinds of weather while sleeping rough. They need to contend with rain, snow, and if their luck really runs out, storms and hurricanes. Through all that, there’s no assurance that they’ll find a shelter where they can keep warm and dry.

If you pack your donations in a paper bag, it won’t stand the rain or snow. So if you can, place the goods in a water-resistant and durable material that they can carry around. Most people use ziplock bags but if you don’t have one, any plastic or waterproof bag will do.

What to Pack

According to a formerly homeless mom, most survival kits contain things that the homeless don’t need nor want. So give a little thought to the things you pack. Make sure they can use it.

To give you an idea, here are the basic things to include in homeless care packs.

Clothing

Winters are especially challenging for people sleeping on the streets. If you have spare socks or a blanket, it would make a world of difference for them.

Aside from winter clothes, you can also give out used clothes that they can wear to work or school. Yes, some homeless people have jobs too. They just don’t earn enough to afford rent. Some are also actively looking for jobs and they can use those clothes during interviews.

Food

When packing foods for the homeless, you need to keep in mind that they don’t have anywhere to cook. So pack food items that are ready-to-eat but will last for days. This includes:

peanut butter
cup noodles
bottled water
instant coffee packets
granola bars
instant oatmeal packets
dried fruits
individually wrapped chocolates
crackers and biscuits
canned soup (with pop top lids in case a can opener is not available)

First Aid Items

Though not commonly included in care bags, homeless people need first aid items too. Living rough makes them more prone to situations that necessitate first aid. You can include items like:

Band-aids
Tylenol or Advil
antibacterial wipes
lip balm/petroleum jelly
moleskin
gauze bandage

Toiletries

Being homeless doesn’t mean they have to look the part too. They’re still human beings after all. That’s why you should throw in some personal hygiene items in the kit too such as:

soap
shampoo
toothpaste
toothbrush
comb
toilet paper
disposable razor
washcloth
stick deodorant
facial wipes
Q-tips

Tools

Aside from food, clothing, and toiletries, homeless people also need certain tools like:

can opener
flashlight
paracord rope

Extras

Aside from all of the above, it doesn’t hurt to include extra items such as:

personal notes of encouragement
supermarket coupons
restaurant gift cards

What Not to Pack

For their safety and for that of the community as well, these items should never be included in a homeless survival pack:

lighters
matches
sharp or bladed objects

Keeping all these in mind, it’s quite easy to make a DIY homeless survival kit. You don’t have to spend more than you can afford. Just grab some food items in your pantry, some old clothes, and extra toiletries. Put them in a ziplock bag and give it to a homeless person you see on the street. It may not be much but they’ll surely appreciate the gesture.

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July 8 2020

Movies That Will Tell You The Truth About Homelessness

SEO Team Helping the Poor, Homelessness 0

Published July 9, 2020

Homelessness is one of the most misunderstood social problems in our generation. It doesn’t matter that most of us are just a few paychecks away from sleeping on the streets. Or that we see homeless people on our way to work every day. For those of us who haven’t experienced it personally, it remains an abstract concept. It’s not that we don’t care. We’re mostly just ill-informed.

Unfortunately, Hollywood’s depiction of homelessness in the previous decades didn’t help matters either. Most movies about homelessness depict homeless people as nothing more than vagabonds. Case in point: Charlie Chaplin’s The Tramp (1915) and Jean Renoir’s Boudu Saved From Drowning (1932).

Both movies feature homeless protagonists who were “rescued” by some well-off person. But they ended up betraying their rescuers and going back to their vagrant ways. Yes, they are both comedies but their depictions reflected society’s perception of homeless people in that era.

In recent years, however, the film industry has caught on. This is partly because homelessness has risen so dramatically in the past few years. Even some Hollywood A-listers became homeless at one point in their lives. This increased awareness has given birth to films that aimed to shed light on this great human tragedy.

Here are some of the movies that will open your eyes to the truth about being homeless in today’s world.

1. The Lady in the Van

If you’ve missed Dame Maggie Smith’s character in Downton Abbey, you’ll see her don that typical haughtiness again in this movie. Except that she plays Mary Shepherd, an old woman who parked her rundown van in writer Alan Bennett’s posh London driveway. She was supposed to camp out there for just three months but ended up staying for 15 years.

The movie was based on a true story written by Bennett himself. As the film progresses, we learn of Ms. Shepherd’s identity and why she came to live in a dilapidated van. The two went on to strike up an unusual friendship which made Bennett realize things about himself.

2. Cats of Mirikitani

This highly-regarded documentary explores the life of Japanese American painter Jimmy Mirikitani. When filmmaker Linda Hattendorf met him in 2001, he was 80 years old and was living on the streets of lower Manhattan.

As the two struck up an unusual friendship, Hattendorf slowly learned about Mirikitani’s life. The film narrates his life as an artist working with the likes of Jackson Pollock to being imprisoned in an internment camp during World War II. It also revealed why he ended up in the streets of New York painting cats to survive.

3. Lost Angels: Skid Row is My Home

With a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this documentary needs to be watched with a handful of tissues on hand. The film centers on eight people from Skid Row in Los Angeles which has one of the largest homeless populations in the country.

These eight individuals have managed to make a home for themselves within the homeless community. The film showed how gentrification and criminalization of poverty put them in that position. It also exposed the country’s struggle with mental health issues and the lack of response to address it.

4. A Street Cat Named Bob

When you lose everything and everyone else abandons you, pets will stick by your side. This is proven by the true-to-life story of James Bowen, a homeless man, and a recovering heroin addict and a street cat he named Bob.

At first, James thought he was helping the cat when he found it rifling through his food one day. But as the movie progresses, we see that it was the other way around. James found a friend in Bob when everyone else deserted him. Together, the unlikely duo embarked on a journey that would both change their lives.

5. Children Underground

This film documents what homelessness is like for unwanted children who were victims of a reckless reproductive policy during Romania’s communist regime.

It follows the story of five of these children who live in a subway station in Bucharest. While homelessness is common in the US, the film shows a harrowing tale of urban hell. The children are left to starve, steal, or even be subjected to prostitution while people are just passing them by. Their tales paint a raw picture of desperation and hopelessness at an age where they should have been cared for, educated, and protected.

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May 27 2020

How Homelessness Affects Society

SEO Team Homelessness 0

Published May 27, 2020

When you see a homeless person on the street, you’d probably feel pity for a second and then go about your business. As long as you’ve got a stable job and a roof over your head, homelessness is something that doesn’t really concern you.

Or so you thought.

Truth is, homelessness affects us all – whether we experience it or not. It affects society in more ways than one. And it concerns you, whether you like it or not.

Here are some ways homelessness affects society:

1. It Costs the Government More Money

Yes, you read it right. Homelessness is costing the government millions of dollars of your tax money. According to a 2017 study in California, a homeless person receives an average of $38,146 worth of public services. This amount dropped by 60% after the said homeless person received housing.

This data is confirmed by former US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun Donovan. He estimated that the government spends about $40,000 per homeless person per year. These expenses usually refer to shelters, emergency rooms, and jails.

Imagine if that amount of money is spent on providing permanent supportive housing for them. The government won’t only be able to save money. It would significantly alter the state of homelessness in the country.

2. It Poses a Threat to Public Health

It’s undeniable that homeless people are more vulnerable to communicable diseases. In 2018, an outbreak of Hepatitis A ravaged California. It particularly hit counties with high populations of unsheltered homeless individuals.

Though unfortunate, this doesn’t come as a shock. Sleeping rough on the streets, exposed to the elements, can compromise one’s immune system. Add to that the often unsanitary living conditions and they don’t stand much chance during outbreaks of diseases.

3. It Can Compromise Public Security

Many homeless people struggle with mental health issues of some sort. Most of the time, it’s brought about by their traumatic upbringing. They have been victims of abuse themselves and many of them find it hard to break the cycle. Whether they’re aware of it or not, they tend to inflict the same suffering on others. As a result, communities with high rates of homelessness also have high crime rates.

4. It Breaks Down Community Life

When a large number of the population are experiencing homelessness, it brings community life to its breaking point. It tests the very being of the community – their shared morals and that sense of belongingness. Homelessness brings it all into question.

Before you know it, the very essence of a community has broken down. We can no longer expect sympathy from the people we live in close quarters with. It fosters uncertainty and constant fear of the people we pass by on the streets. In short, it creates an unhealthy community where people generally distrust each other.

5. It Creates Social Barriers

Homelessness brings with it a social stigma. Those who experience it often live in shame and isolation. They’re trying to survive and they are desperate for help. But the fear of condemnation often prevents them from reaching out.

On the flip side of the coin, those who haven’t experienced homelessness will never be able to fully grasp what the homeless are going through. They tend to shrug them off as lazy bums who just can’t be bothered to work.

The lack of empathy from the one side and the fear of being judged from the other often leads to a breakdown of communication. This, in turn, drives a thick invisible wall between the two sides. It becomes an “us” versus “them” instead of “we” against poverty.

This social barrier only serves to bring to the fore those deeply rooted biases against the most vulnerable members of society.

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May 12 2020

How You Can Help End Homelessness

SEO Team Homelessness 0

Published May 12, 2020

Despite the many initiatives of both the government and the public sector, homelessness remains a big problem in the US. It’s not, after all, something that can be solved overnight.

While long-term strategies are needed to totally end homelessness, you can still help in your own way.

You may not have billions of dollars to build homes for every homeless person. But each individual effort, no matter how small, can go a long way.

Here are small ways you can help homeless people and contribute to ending homelessness.

Stop Stereotyping

Homeless people are some of the most stereotyped and discriminated people in our society. Admit it or not, most of us think that they are either too lazy to work or drug addicts.

But many homeless people are just victims of circumstances beyond their control. A lot of them have jobs but are not earning enough to live a decent life. Many of them are also suffering from mental illnesses stemming from childhood traumas.

So before you stereotype homeless people, remember most of them did not have your connections and opportunities. Before you shrug them off as bums and deadbeats, try to put yourself in their shoes. A little empathy can go a long way.

Start by smiling at them. You have no idea how a simple, sincere smile from a stranger can help a person going through a tough time. If you have the time, try to start a conversation with someone experiencing homelessness.

Stop ignoring them or treating them as a disgrace. Reaching out to them helps break the stigma. If more and more people will understand what they are going through, it will open up society’s mind about the reality of their plight. The less time we spend judging them, the more time we have to help them.

Donate to Homeless Charities

Countless charitable institutions all over the country are fighting to end homelessness in their own ways. These organizations help give people experiencing homelessness a second chance at a decent life. You can be a part of the fight too.

Most of these charities are funded by donations. Even if you’re no Bill Gates or Jeff Bezos, you can still donate to them. Any amount, heartily given, is a huge help to ease their suffering. Some of the homeless charities in the US you can donate to are:

Give Out Care Packages

Care packages are one way of helping people experiencing homelessness get through the day. It doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. Just grab some ready-to-eat foods and personal hygiene items you have at home and put them in a paper bag. Carry these care packages around and give it to a homeless person you meet on the street.

Winter is especially difficult for people with no place to lay their heads in. Shelters are also packed during this time. As a result, many homeless have to sleep in the frozen pavements. Their threadbare clothing barely enough to keep them warm. If you have some blankets or socks to spare, that would make a world of difference to them.

Advocate

One of the most foolproof ways of ending homelessness is educating the people. Educate your friends and family that homelessness does not stem from laziness or addiction.

Instead, people experiencing homelessness are also just victims. They need our understanding and sympathy as much as anyone else. Use your voice to campaign for legislation and programs to help people escape homelessness.

With enough people advocating to end homelessness, sooner or later the right people will hear you.

Volunteer

If you can’t donate money, you can always donate your time. Many homeless charities and programs are in need of volunteers. There are a lot of tasks where you can use your expertise in.

You can help cook foods in a soup kitchen or build a home in low-cost housing programs. Many volunteers also do administrative jobs like social media management or accounting. There’s a wide variety of jobs a volunteer can do.

Raise Funds

Most charitable organizations organize fundraising campaigns from time to time. It’s a way of rallying the community together to support a common cause.

If you can’t donate or volunteer, you can always help them raise funds. Or organize a fundraising campaign yourself.

Help Them Get a Job

Though many homeless people have jobs, social stigma prevents them from finding a decent job with a livable wage. And this is very important to someone experiencing homelessness. If they’ll earn enough to afford a room of their own, it’s one step closer to getting out of homelessness.

So if you are hiring or you know someone who does, consider giving these people an opportunity to rebuild their lives. Sometimes, all they need is a chance and someone to believe in them.

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A Growing Crisis of How Homelessness Affects Children in the US.

March 18 2020

A Growing Crisis: How Homelessness Affects Children in the US

Content Team Homelessness 0

Published March 19, 2020

When we hear the word “homeless”, the first image that comes to mind is people sleeping on parks and pavements. But unknown to many, there is one group that is most affected by the country’s homelessness crisis: children.

According to a federal report, the number of homeless students from kindergarten to 12th grade has grown by 70% over the past decade. This doesn’t include runaways and out-of-school youths. In 2014, one report revealed that 1 in 30 children in the country is experiencing homelessness each year.

Most of these children are from single-parent families which comprise a majority of the country’s homeless population. According to a 2018 report, over 90% of these children are staying in emergency shelters or transitional housing programs. (Related: Homeless Mothers Who Turned Their Lives Around)

For the past several years, steps have been done to address this growing crisis. But the recent explosion in real estate prices in major cities seem to undermine these efforts. Each year, more and more children are losing their homes which affects their education, health and leaves lasting trauma.

Education

With no permanent place to stay, most homeless children struggle to go to school. They lag behind on lessons, homework, and other school activities.

Federal law mandates school districts to provide transportation for homeless children. But oftentimes, this isn’t enough to keep a child in school.

When the family moves to a different shelter across the state, it means a new school for the children. Some homeless children even reported having changed schools at least twice a year.

As the new kid in school, homeless children are often subjected to bullying. Not only that but every time a child transfers school, they lose around four to six months of academic learning. Add to this the stress of adjusting to yet another unfamiliar environment. It’s no wonder why many of them choose to skip school.

With these difficulties, only very few homeless youths actually make it through high school. No diploma means lesser employment opportunities. Thus, they tend to become homeless even as adults.

A homeless child who is also a victim of domestic abuse.

Health

Because they often have to skip meals, many homeless children suffer from malnutrition. As a result, they are more prone to diseases.

Data gathered by private institutions suggest that asthma is one of the most common illnesses of homeless kids. Displacement often interrupts their asthma maintenance. Staying in homeless shelters also increases their exposure to various kinds of allergens which trigger attacks.

Lack of access to sufficient and nutritious meals also takes a toll on their bodies. Very young children housed in shelters are found to have a high rate of iron-deficiency anemia.

Experiencing homelessness at an early age also increases their risk of developmental delays. This affects them even until adulthood which puts them at a great disadvantage among other children their age.

Psychology

Homelessness often leaves severe trauma on an innocent child. And it’s a known fact that childhood traumas often manifest in an adult’s behavior.

Being a constant victim of bullying and no safe place to call their own can mess up a child’s emotional response. Bullied children turned out to be either violent or closed off to the world. Either way, they have difficulty trusting others and building relationships. Not to mention that the constant moving about keeps them from getting to know other people long enough to form even a semblance of friendship.

Most homeless children have also been victims of domestic violence. Studies suggest that these children often display signs of various behavioral problems. This can include aggression, self-disturbance, anxiety, and depression.

Help Us Help The Homeless

We at Our Father’s House Soup Kitchen have been helping the homeless in South Florida since 1989. Our mission is to provide them with a safe haven where they can get meals free from condemnation and discrimination. Aside from hot lunches, our guests also get a take-out bag, clothes and hygiene kits.

You can help us help the homeless too. We accept donations in cash or in kind. You can donate through our online facility or drop off food or clothing donations at our office in Pompano Beach. Any amount will be a huge help in getting them through this trying time.

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Did you like this post about homelessness in children in the US? Check more helpful articles on our blog.

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A homeless single mother hugging her children.

February 5 2020

Homeless Mothers Who Turned Their Lives Around

Content Team Homelessness, Positive News 0

Published February 5th, 2020

Being homeless is hard but it’s even more so for single mothers. They not only have to look out for themselves but for their little ones too. With no husband or relatives to turn to, homeless single mothers often have to brave insurmountable odds alone.

According to studies, 60% of homeless families in the US are headed by single mothers. Though unfortunate, this data isn’t surprising. Single-parent families are among the poorest households in the country with more than a third living below the poverty line.

This statistic is also due to the fact that most women who find themselves in this situation are lacking higher education degrees and certifications. With dismal employment prospects, getting their own place in a very competitive real estate market can be difficult.

With these challenges, what are the chances of a single mother getting out of homelessness? As it turns out, it can be done. And these homeless single mothers’ inspiring tales are a testament to that.

Jennifer Deuel

In the space of four years, Jennifer Deuel went from being a homeless single mother to being a homeowner.

Trapped in an abusive relationship for eight years, Deuel decided she finally had enough. With her two-year-old special needs son in tow, she left her husband while pregnant with her second son. She had nothing except the clothes on her back, a stroller and a garbage bag full of her children’s clothes.

Deuel ended up at the House of Mercy, a local shelter for women run by the YWCA. Most women in her predicament would have lost hope but Deuel was determined.

She began taking classes to further her education – she hopes to become a nurse one day. She also works full time as a certified nursing assistant. Aside from her work and studies, Deuel also sees to it that she spends enough time with her kids.

According to Deuel, her kids saved her from going into a spiral descent. If not for them, she would have become a drug addict or worse.

With the help of NGOs and the local government, Deuel was able to get a low-cost apartment. But it did not stop there. When she saved up enough for the down payment, Deuel brought her own house. She said that, for the first time in her life, she finally has something she can call hers.

Despite praises for her determination and courage to turn her life around, Deuel believes she did nothing special. She says she was just trying to take care of her kids and do something with her life.

“Even if life beats you down, you can’t afford to give up. If you want it to happen bad enough, you will make it happen.”, she added.

A homeless single mother clasping hands with her son.

Creionna

She lost her mother at an early age and a few years later, her father was sent to prison. In 10th grade, Hurricane Katrina flooded her hometown and washed away the hopes of a better future. At 16, she was living in a house full of drug-addicted relatives. To make matters worse, she became pregnant and the father of her child abandoned her.

It seems like happiness is always out of grasp for Creionna, a teenage single mother from New Orleans. Not only was she abandoned, her father and relatives also forced her to abort her child. Defying everyone around her, she chose to keep the child.

After giving birth alone in an emergency C-section, Creionna decided never to set foot in that house again. Bundling up her six-week-old son and carrying nothing but a well-stocked diaper bag, she waited for a bus outside a Walmart parking lot.

Out of the blue, an elderly couple approached and asked her what’s wrong. Mustering up her courage, she asked them to take her to a local shelter she heard about while at school.

Creionna admitted that she never imagined herself living in a homeless shelter. But her circumstances left her with no choice. Raising her son in a shelter is much better than raising him in a house full of drug addicts. (Related: How Important Are Moral Values in Children?)

At the shelter, Creionna worked hard to improve her situation. She found a job and started attending money management and parenting classes. She also went back to high school and finished the two classes she needed to graduate.

It wasn’t an easy journey. Her days typically start at 5:45 in the morning and end between 7:00 to 8:00 at night. She has to take seven bus or streetcar rides, pick up her son at the daycare center, cook dinner and do her homework.

After two years, her hard work paid off. She got promoted in her job which allowed her to take university courses for free. It also afforded her a small apartment where they now live. The future is finally starting to look bright.

Jennie Galindo

Second chance – these two words sum up Jennie Galindo’s life. Sexually abused at a young age, she turned to drugs and partying to cope. As a result, she struggled with meth addiction for 20 years.

Her drug addiction also took a toll on her personal life. She went through a string of abusive relationships from which she bore four sons.

With no stable relationships, Jennie and her sons moved around the country for years. They even lived in Mexico for a time. She worked in low-wage jobs and committed minor crimes such as forgery and petty theft. She was also very familiar with homelessness as most of the time, they either slept in their car or in a shelter.

It all changed on a cold winter night in December 2015. Jennie said she became tired of living that kind of lifestyle. More importantly, she didn’t want to put her kids through it anymore. She wanted out.

Leaving behind an abusive partner, Jennie and her sons traveled to California from Las Vegas. There they sought shelter at a local CareCenter. She was also able to get a job in telemarketing.

The NGO also helped her find a cheap two-bedroom apartment and even assisted with moving-in costs. She also started going to church and attended group therapy sessions.

In addition to her part-time jobs, Jennie also serves as an overnight logistics coordinator at the local CareCenter that helped them. She does not consider it as a job though but a labor of love. It’s her way of expressing her gratitude for all the help she and her family had received when they most needed it. (Related: 14 Great Quotes About Giving Back and Helping Others)

If there’s one thing these stories of struggles and triumph tells us, it’s that everyone has their own battles to fight. These people did not choose to be homeless. They’re just victims of poor choices and circumstances beyond their control. Instead of condemnation, let us practice compassion. Rather than turning them away, let us help them get back on their feet. Together, we can make this world a better place to live.

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A homeless charity volunteer is enjoying serving food to the homeless people.

October 23 2019

What is a Soup Kitchen? The Complete Answer

Peter Heise Helping the Poor, Homelessness, Soup Kitchen 0

A homeless person getting free food at a soup kitchen.

Published October 23rd, 2019

By definition, a soup kitchen is a place where free food is served to the homeless and destitute to millions around the world. In reality, however, soup kitchens are so much more than that.

What Does a Soup Kitchen Do?

A familiar feeling among homeless people is hopelessness. And we cannot blame them. When you have lost everything (your house, friends, and family), it’s inevitable to feel such desperation. Every single day, they have to keep fighting to survive. And every single day, they sink deeper into the quagmire of self-pity and desolation.

Soup kitchens have become a place of refuge for those less fortunate souls. It gives them hope that all is not lost and there are still people who care for them. In these havens, they are not judged, discriminated, or made to feel like they’re worthless. They are cared for and treated as equals.

Aside from free food, most soup kitchens also provide other necessities such as clothing and hygiene kits. Though some soup kitchens only serve soup and bread, others serve a freshly-cooked full course meal. They also provide a take out bag with a sandwich and other goodies.

The most important thing a soup kitchen does, however, is providing the homeless with a sense of belonging. For someone who doesn’t have a place of their own, this is a big deal, particularly during special occasions.

How Do Soup Kitchens Help the Community?

Throughout history and in most cultures, the sharing of food to the less fortunate is a common practice. Society has always felt a moral obligation to help its most vulnerable members.

This is how soup kitchens help the community. They provide a venue for those with resources to share their blessings to people who are in dire need of it.

Not only does it encourage charity, but it also brings the community together. It helps break societal boundaries as rich and poor, young and old gather together to share a meal. More importantly, it teaches young children the importance of empathy.

Someone giving an apple to a homeless child.

Where Do Soup Kitchens Get Their Food?

Soup kitchens run on the generosity of people in the community. They rely mostly on donations from individuals and institutions who believe in their cause.

At Our Father’s House Soup Kitchen, for example, donors have the option to donate cash or food items. Non-perishable items like bottled water, cereals, bread, coffee, milk, and canned goods are especially needed. But you can also donate used clothes and hygiene items as these are very much useful for the homeless too.

The Difference Between Soup Kitchens and Food Pantries

Though both give out food to the homeless, soup kitchens and food pantries differ in their methods.

Food pantries give out pre-packaged food items that the recipient can eat and cook at home. This is convenient for people who live far away from these institutions. They can receive up to a week’s worth of food without having to visit the food pantries frequently.

Soup kitchens, on the other hand, give out freshly-cooked meals which can be eaten in their premises. Unlike food pantries, soup kitchens serve food to anyone who turns up with no questions asked. That is why it’s an ideal setting for the homeless and those with long-term dependence on food assistance. They are able to enjoy a hot meal in an environment free of discrimination and prejudice.

One free hot meal each day may not matter much to you but it could be a lifeline for others. Join us in helping the homeless. Donate or volunteer at soup kitchens near you. Together, we can change the world with one small act of kindness at a time.

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October 10 2019

Praying for the Homeless

Peter Heise Helping the Poor, Homelessness 1

Published October 10th, 2019

If there’s one thing that homeless people need aside from food and shelter, it’s our prayers.

Every day, they face the prospect of starvation. In winter, they also have the added burden of staying warm so as not to catch hypothermia. And there’s no one to care for them when they get sick or injured.

Living on the streets can be very dangerous too. With no safe place to lay their heads at night, they become easy targets for criminals. The Guardian recently reported that homeless people are 15 times more likely to get assaulted.

These are just some of the reasons why we need to pray for the homeless. We all know how powerful prayer can be when it comes from a sincere heart. It can create miracles.

We are undoubtedly blessed to have food on our table and a roof over our heads. It is just right to share that blessing. The least we can do is offer them a prayer.

Showing Mercy to the Homeless

Why should we show mercy to the homeless? The bible says:

“He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, And He will pay back what he has given” – Proverbs 19:17

Showing compassion to the poor, hungry, and homeless is us doing a favor for God. Helping them is our way of serving Him and thanking Him for all that He has given us.

How to Pray for the Homeless

There is no one right way of praying as long as it comes from your heart. But if you don’t know how to pray for the homeless, here’s a quick guide.

Pray for Resistance Against Temptation. Because of their desperate situation, homeless people are more prone to temptation. They get tempted to commit crimes or take addictive substances. Help them pray for the strength to resist such temptations.
Pray for Spiritual Rehabilitation. Pray that in spite of what they are going through, they remain steadfast in the Lord.
Pray for Friendship and Courage. Most of the time, homeless people have only themselves. Pray that they will have the courage to get them through this trying time. Pray also that they will meet a friend who will understand, support, and help them get back on their feet.
Pray for the Children. If homelessness is difficult for adults, then it is much more so for the children. Pray that God may always protect them and give them a much better future than the life they are living now.

Sample Prayers for the Homeless

A sample prayer for the homeless, poor and hungry.

A sample prayer for benevolence to the homeless.

Help Us Help The Homeless

Our Father’s House Soup Kitchen has been serving the homeless for over 30 years. We provide them a hot meal in an environment free of prejudice and discrimination.

You can join our cause too! You can donate cash online or drop off food items at our place in Pompano Beach, Florida. We are especially in need of bottled water, food, coffee, milk, and men’s clothing. Visit our homepage to know more about our soup kitchen or contact us if you’d like to give a hand. We welcome volunteers too.

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