I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything but still I can do something... Helen Keller
For the better part of the summer, I have spent time engaging a homeless community, comprised of people who are experiencing homelessness or other severe housing challenges nationwide. I asked them (among other things) what they needed, aside from housing and money, that would assist them.
Here is What They Told Me:
FOOD - Many people complained of the ease of access for food. Pantries are NOT as effective as some might think. Unhoused people without access to transportation have difficulties accessing these resources. They also do not have a place to store the food received since they are displaced. Most shelters do not allow outside food and food spoils easily when you're living on the streets or inside a car.
ENCOURAGEMENT- Every person I engaged complained about the lack of respect and positive support received. They spoke at great lengths of people from all walks, titles and statuses who repeatedly demean them. Worry, depression, anxiety, physical ailments are a realistic result of being unhoused. If left unchecked, this ultimately leads to an unsafe, unthriving community. You cannot expect struggling people to be the BEST version of themselves if they are hungry, homeless or hopeless.
PRACTICAL RESOURCES- Aside from food, and encouragement, many of them also requested resources to help them keep moving forward. Blankets, coats, basic grooming items, resumes, and training opportunities are some examples of what they need.
WHAT NOW??
The T.E.A. initiative is about
TEAMWORK, ENCOURAGEMENT, & ACTION!!
TEAMWORK - A lot of housing or homeless organizations do not provide direct services or support and even those who do, do not have unlimited resources. I'm seeking to help bridge that gap by building a consistent network of practical support. Would you consider helping me to help others ? Here is what is needed:
Blankets for those in need. WINTER IS COMING!! The goal is to help 500 HOMELESS people keep warm during the cold season. All initial gifts will be distributed to The Pope France Center however, the goal is to BUILD and KEEP a circle of support throughout the year for others who are in need.
Facilitators. I am looking for others to assist me with collecting these items and distributing these blankets in December 2024. If you have space in your home or organization, PLEASE CONSIDER serving as a drop off location to help me collect the blankets. I have transformed one of my spare bedrooms into a "clothing closet" where I can also collect and store items for people in need. Please email me at: rdwcreations@outlook.com to contribute.
ENCOURAGEMENT- Kicking people while they are down is not what's up! We have normalized negativity by pointing out the problems (criticism) , without providing the proper support and/or tangible solutions. Hurting people are struggling enough! What they need is help, healing and hope! I am challenging YOU to choose to help others, support healing efforts and at the very least, speak words of LIFE into seemingly fruitless situations. If you don't know what to say, consider what you would say to yourself.
ACTION - Sign-up to help and stay in the know on our websites home page:
www.rdwcreations.org Feel free to email me at: rdwcreations@outlook.com
PRO TIPS TO COMBAT HOMELESSNESS
A- EDUCATE yourself on homelessness and the REAL challenges everyday people face. READ a book. TALK to your neighbors, family and friends. VOLUNTEER!
When we KNOW better then we can do better. What can one really do if they do not KNOW?
B- CHANGE YOUR HEART & MIND to become more receptive and compassionate towards the needs of others. Stop fearmongering the poor, homeless and needy! Little do you know, there is a person you work with right now who is living in a hotel or out of their car. Recognize that we all are a paycheck or tragedy away from walking in the same shoes.
November is Homeless Awareness Month
RDW Creations will be re-releasing our latest title:
We also will unveil a brand new product that will hopefully inspire and enrich peoples lives. Can you guess what's coming??? STAY TUNED.
Peace & ❤️
Rosey
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