I thought it a good sign when the homeless hanging around Snell and Blossom Hill Road near my home were disappearing, that maybe the improving economy meant many of them were being able to make better lives for themselves and their families. Not so. They’re just trying to find better shelter for the winter. Despite a healthier economy, homelessness has increased. A good example is San Jose–smack dab in the middle of bustling Silicon Valley–where homelessness has increased 18% over last year. In other words, the fight isn’t over for many men, women, and children who are on our streets because they have no place else to go.
It’s very, very important that we don’t forget these vulnerable people–those on the streets and those who are on the edge and ready to fall off into homelessness. Especially in this season of open hearts.
Help these people by contributing time, goods, and money to shelters, food banks, church food pantries, kitchens that serve meals, clothes closets (for basics and for clothes appropriate for job interviews), and other organizations that serve the homeless and other poor. Watch out for friends, neighbors, or co-workers on the brink of losing their jobs or homes–or who would benefit greatly by being invited to dinner at your house.
If you’re a member of a religion, your faith calls you to do this. If you’re an agnostic or atheist, your humanity demands it.