My hometown is pretty small and homelessness isn't something we come across every day. Occasionally there will be an old guy holding up a "will work for food" sign by the exit ramp or at one of the shopping centers. But we don't see them sleeping on the side of the street or on a park bench. Just because we don't see them, however, doesn't mean they're not there. Even in the small city of Chillicothe, homelessness exists. It is real.
According to statistics, there are about 12,000 homeless men, women, and children in the state of Ohio. On any given day, 1500 of those go unsheltered. Some of those who go unsheltered are living under bridges, down by the river, in cars, anywhere they can find a place to lay their head.
The question is, what are we doing to help? I came across a blog today written by a lady named Sandy. She is using her creative talents to help the homeless in her Ohio hometown by knitting scarves, hats, mittens, and socks. Read about her efforts to help the homeless here.
In Chillicothe, one of the ways in which we can help the homeless is through a ministry called Homes of Hope. In the near future, I will have more details to share on how to be more involved in serving this wonderful ministry. But, in the meantime, please watch this video and share it with your family and friends. Together we can make a difference and impact the homeless community where we live!
How are you reaching out to the homeless community in your hometown?
