Helping the Homeless Directly

 

 

Some people will go out seeking homeless people to help out. Perhaps there areparticular individuals you are familiar with that could use some help. This is alsosomething a group could do together.

 

Making Bag Lunches

Some people make up bag lunches, such as a peanut butter sandwich, a piece of fruit,and a soft drink (things that don't spoil quickly), to hand out at places like day-labor offices or parks. Keep in mind that some communities have laws against hand-outs in public. You could provide them to a program for them to distribute instead.

 

Helping with Phone Calls

Assistance in making long-distance phone calls to family is great, especially on holidays. It may make them feel better and perhaps the family may help out as well. Giving phone cards is a good idea too. How about assisting them in getting free Community Voice Mail? What about free or low-cost cell phones? All it takes is some assistance in getting them signed up.

 

Helping to Get Identification Cards

Often people who are homeless have lost their I.D. cards, or had them stolen. Without adequate I.D. it's impossible to get regular work, as employers are required by law to check social security and state I.D. cards. For someone with no identification at all, it's first necessary to get a birth certificate copy, which usually requires first showing I.D., or multiple forms of documentation, plus paying for it. Then a person can get a SS card and state I.D. or replacement driver's license. See the identification page.

 

Giving Money Directly to the Homeless

While many refuse to give money to those panhandling, considering that it may be used to support an addiction, it could also be for practical necessities. It's up to you to decide if and what to give. If you want to help, but not with cash, how about gift cards or vouchers? One time I saw

where a donor gave vouchers, usable at a large local store, that stated "boots and socks only", to a program for them to be distributed. Of course, you could also ask the person what they really need, and help them to buy it.

 

A Little Respect

Even if you can't give anything, treating homeless people with the same respect and courtesy as anyone else really means something. Just saying "Good morning" when passing someone you know is homeless can mean a lot to them.

 

Helping a Local Outreach Program

There are many outreach programs, large and small, that provide much needed help to the homeless, and could use assistance to maintain their office. They may be run by churches or non-profit groups. Financial donations are always needed, but there are many other ways to help too.

Used (but functional) computers   Aside from their own use, the program could set up computers for people to access email and job search websites, post resumes, and respond to advertised jobs. These days most jobs that pay a living wage can be found on the Internet, while they may not be

advertised in the newspaper.   They could also provide basic classes on how to use computers, a very good skill to have. Many jobs require at least basic computer knowledge, and using the Internet is agood way of finding work, assistance, and low cost rentals. 

Office items

Perhaps the program could use office equipment and supplies. Computers, printers, and copying machines are considered necessities today. A variety of basic office supplies, like paper, are needed too.

Utilities

Help in paying for utility services like the electric and phone may be needed. Helping with providing Internet service is a good idea, if they have computers.

Merchandise donations

Some programs can make use of various donations for resale to help support the program. Ask them what they could use. Many organizations welcome donations of vehicles, either for their own use or to sell to raise funds. If the organization is a registered non-profit there should be a tax write-off too.

Volunteering your time

Outreach programs always have a need for volunteers. This may be for day or night management, or maybe helping in maintenance. If you have plumbing, electrical or construction experience they may need your help. Perhaps you could help teach people how to use computers. A basic understanding of using computers and the Internet opens lots of possibilities.  Just ask them what they need.