THIS...Is Today's Homeless

It seems that when we speak of the homeless, we mean the traditional stereotyped individual. Most times people use the following words to describe them:

bum
unemployed
uneducated
stupid
can't read
smells
dirty
thief
liar
druggie
alcoholic
smoker
ex-convict
violent

But, let me ask you this.

Do you really know who the homeless are in YOUR community?

Single parents
Married couples
Families with children
Employed
Under-insured/Uninsured (health care expenses that bankrupt people)
Individuals with Disabilities
The ill
People laid-off
Educated
Skilled
Widowed
The people just unable to make ends meet despite their low income jobs!!!

For example: Look at how many students in your community are on the reduced and free lunch program. What percentage is this? Every one of them is one disaster, unexpected expense, or job loss away from homelessness.

Despite their best efforts in these circumstances, homelessness can't be avoided. We may not be able to end the poverty overnight, but we CAN provide shelter overnight. All it takes is someone to open a building, their mind, and their heart.

How long are the waiting lists for services?
Affordable housing?
Is the housing affordable for a single income (single parent household?)
Ask yourself again...
How long are the waiting lists?
Is it transitional housing or a true shelter?
Can it be accessed all year round?
What happens if the funds/grant money disappears? Will it still be around?
Is there a family friendly place to go immediately without all the red-tape?

Jesus didn't have red-tape.
Nor did He have a waiting list.
And He didn't judge those who just couldn't make it without help.

I know some homeless who work.
I know some homeless that utilize pay as you go cell phones for employment.
And I know some homeless who will not be able to afford the rent on the median wages even after attending school to further their education.
I know single mothers who live at the poverty level, because there IS only one income.
I know single fathers who pay child support, yet can't afford a place to live-AND they work a full-time job.

THESE...are today's homeless.

And as communities, it is OUR responsibility to minister and provide HOPE.

We can't fix everything, but we can provide as the needs arise...

without question...

without passing judgment...

Before you leave this post, I HOPE you ask yourself two things:

1. WHO do I know that could end up homeless, because they ARE barely making it or currently unable to make ends meet?

2. Where can they find HOPE in Christ in MY community 24/7/365?

I HOPE you will take the time to read the following post...
"When I Say, "Whoa!" and God says, "Go!" about HOPE.

Together we can ALL help people find HOPE!