Making a difference for Pinellas Homeless.

 Homeless Numbers 
Although it is obviously difficult to accurately estimate the number of homeless in the US, it is conservatively estimated that on any given night more than 1/2 million people utilize the services of a homeless or emergency shelter.  USA Today recently estimated 1.6 million individuals used transitional housing or emergency shelters.  Of 1.6 million, approximately 1/3 are members of households with children, (up 9% since 2007).  The National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty found that approximately 3.5 million people, 1.35 million of them children, are likely to experience homelessness in a given year (National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, 2007).

• Advocate ~ Support programs at a local, state and federal level.  Let your representatives and others know that you care about the homeless crisis and would like government to take an active role in providing assistance.
• Donate ~ See some of the projects for which your dollars can make a difference.
• Volunteer ~ Support local homeless aid programs by volunteering and incorporating any a number of your skills, providing services such as : kitchen and serving help, cleaning, office work, training, etc.
• Fundraise ~ See a need in your community? Start your own fundraiser at FundraiserCrowd.com
• Recruit others ~ Whether your are volunteering, fundraising or helping in any other way, share it with your friends.  Most people love to help.  Share the opportunity to make a difference.

It’s not easy walking passed people in need.  Giving something, even just a dollar or some change, can ease your discomfort somewhat, but it is not always possible to give money to every person asking for it.  Sometimes you may be uncomfortable giving cash, perhaps wanting to be sure the money will be used for food. Think about offering a gift card to a local fast food restaurant, or even consider  carrying granola bars with you.  Not everyone will want or appreciate your alternative to cash, but many homeless individuals will be very grateful.  If you have nothing tangible available to give, always remember that everyone can give a smile, or even a nod to let those folks know you “see” them.   Better still, arm yourself with information about where they might get help: a meal, from a church organization or a bed for the night, etc.  Even if they are aware of those services, it is a way to engage. That few moments of conversation might provide great encouragement or at least make someone fess alone.

The last few years we have tried to bring  a little bit of the magic of Christmas to the homeless residents of Pinellas Hope.  Once again this year we will be providing a special dinner, Christmas gifts and Christmas carols by some of Pinellas County's most gifted singers.