If you’re like me, this breaks your heart. However, take heed, for there are many things on many levels that you can do. First of all, remember the old adage, “Think globally, act locally”. The problem is too large for you to solve, but you can certainly be a part of the cure. There are places in your community wherever you live that are trying to help. There are organizations that provide food and shelter and perhaps even some counseling.
So now you ask, why do they need another volunteer? What can I lend?
You can lend several things, all of which are sorely needed. First and easiest, you can donate money. Always needed and always appreciated. Second, you can volunteer to work with people who are either homeless or hungry by delivering supplies, feeding people, helping to provide clothing and other necessities, and of course just being there as a person who is willing to listen.
Many of us take for granted the importance of companionship. The importance of hearing a friendly voice, of sharing a story with a kind-hearted listener, and of sharing a laugh. Most of us can not imagine being on the streets, and not having a toilet or a shower. Any one of us fortunate enough to have a decent set of clothing can walk into a place of business, restaurant, or fast food place and use the rest rooms with no problems. Homeless people can not. Many of us in a hurry and needing a quick something to eat can spend a few dollars and get a coffee and biscuit to go. Hunger is not that easy for others. Things we take for granted are not that simple for the homeless.
