November is Homeless Awareness Month. As we gather round to give thanks for what we have this year, it’s important to remember those less fortunate.
According to HomeAid America, as many as 3.5 million Americans find themselves homeless each year, more than one million of them children. More than 300 thousand American children are homeless on any given night. More than half of the homeless population are families with children suffering from temporary homelessness caused by personal tragedy or calamity.
5 things you can do this season & year-round to help:
- Donate Beyond monetary donations to organizations, the gift of clothes you no longer need, extra household items, groceries, and toys goes a long way to helping these families weather the storm that is finding yourself homeless.
- Volunteer Volunteer your time or abilities to help deliver services needed or help build shelters. Additionally, you can put your hobbies to work by giving lessons to impart marketable skills such as cooking, repair work, gardening, sewing, and photography. Consider making use of resources available to you, like expertise or equipment, to aid in shelter construction.
- Be Prepared Carrying snacks with you, packing an extra lunch, or keeping an old coat or spare blanket in your trunk for the homeless you meet can help ensure survival on the streets. Take it a step further and carry pre-packed care packages in your car to give to those in need.
- Advocate Educate yourself and those around you on the realities of homelessness in your area and join the movement by sharing socially, participating in events, signing up as a volunteer or organization member, or becoming a mentor to homeless youth.
- Be Kind It may seem like the simplest thing in the world, but just being kind to people around you and acknowledging the less fortunate in your path goes a long way to making the world a better, happier place. Show your fellow man that you respect them and appreciate their hardship by not ignoring those you meet who are in need.
