I first posted this last January, during a bitterly cold season of the year. There is extreme winter weather across much of the country NOW in mid-December, so I’m re-posting this as a reminder for all of us (including myself). Due to increased unemployment, poor economy, and a downturn in charitable giving, there are many more homeless and needy souls now than there were when I first entered this on my blog last January. In fact, one of Houston’s primary homeless shelters is reporting their city’s homeless population has DOUBLED since last year!
There are homeless people all around us whose needs are much greater than the fact that they will have no “Christmas presents” this year! The shelters are over-flowing, and many desperate men, women, and — yes — children spend their nights on cold slabs of sidewalks, or huddled in covered doorways of public buildings to seek shelter from snow, rain, and wind. When possible, we need to share the gift of ourselves by taking warm food, drink, or clothing (along with God’s love) to where they are. If we can’t do that, we need to consider how we can make monetary donations that will help them to get the relief they need NOW through the Salvation Army or other organizations that minister to the homeless on a daily basis.
Our family prefers to choose faith-based charities that minister to the spiritual, as well as physical, needs of the people they serve.
Many of us may also know people living close by who are cold and lonely and perhaps unable to prepare nourishing meals for themselves, due to poverty, old age, or poor health. We can be the hands and feet of Jesus to them, by helping to meet their needs during this frigid weather.
As always, we get the greatest blessings when we do for others who can never repay us.
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[Originally posted on January 9, 2010]:
KSBJ Radio just reported that there are 10,000 homeless people in Houston. All the city’s shelters combined provide 5,000 beds for the homeless — So tonight, at least 5,000 people just in Houston will have to sleep outdoors in mid-20 degree temps. They are in need of warm coats, hats, gloves, socks, thermal underwear, and blankets. The situation is just as serious in many other places. Salvation Army & other charities are in need of extra donations to support their aide to the homeless this winter.
