Homeless people finding refuge on the streets often get ignored, but the Denver-based urban ministry called Christ in the City hopes that this problem is properly addressed by society and that the public will have the inner motivation to show some concern and compassion to these people.
The group offered a tip sheet on how to help homeless people, according to the Catholic News Agency. "Ask the person's name," the group urges. "One of our friends on the street told us he went four months without hearing his own name. Ask the person's name and remember it."
Next time people see these homeless people, it would be great if they could say hi and ask how their day went. "You'll be amazed how his or her face will light up that you remembered," the group says. "To love is to know and be known. And so, the chronically homeless become unknown, they become separated, not just from society but from the experience of love itself."
Christ in the City adds that homeless people don't only deal with homelessness but also suffer from substance abuse or mental problems. The ministry's managing director Erin McCrory says a kind word from a stranger can do wonders for these people's self-esteem.
"They've told us that once your reality becomes eating out of garbage cans and you don't hear your name spoken for months at a time, you accept this is your reality," McCrory says. "Their spirits are broken and they are lacking in hope and faith in people."
But whenever a stranger offers them a handshake and recognises their dignity, chronically homeless people brighten up and it can help regain their faith in humanity.
For those who want to give aid to these people, Christ in the City advises that they give more practical items such as pairs of socks or gloves and bottles of water or Gatorade drinks instead of money. People who plan on giving food should keep in mind that homeless people often have teeth problems, which make it difficult for them to eat hard stuff like apples or granola bars.
"Giving money is a personal decision that requires discernment. Gift cards can be a better alternative to cash," Christ in the City says.
"Your love and compassion is more effective than five bucks," it adds.
