2021 September 11th Day of Service

We invite you to participate in our 2021 September 11th Day of Service. In the spirit of honoring our first responders who devote themselves to service to people in times of need, we are focusing on serving people experiencing homelessness. We hope you will learn how to develop the heart of Jesus in your daily lives as you come in contact with people in need.

Here are the simple steps to follow in order to serve:

Watch the training program created by HOPE worldwide.

 
 


Create a plan to serve people experiencing homelessness. Some of key components are:

  • Read Luke 16:19-31 and understand that the main issue that needed to change for the Rich Man was indifference that he felt towards his neighbor, Lazarus. He did not see the needs around him.

  • Develop a heart that treats all people with dignity and sees all people as being valuable and made in the image of God.

  • Learn some key components of starting and developing a relationship with people you meet on the street. (The training video has many great insights)

  • Get a list of local and resources that you can share with people as you get to know them. (Your local city/town can provide listings for many services)

  • Start your own HOPE Car Ministry. We will be providing a HOPE worldwide Massachusetts bag in which you can store supplies ready to be handed out as you go through your day. (A list of supplies is included in this handout)

  • Remember you can be like Jesus when someone asks you for money on the street. You may not always give money but you can give time, show love and provide dignity in your interactions. You can be world changer for someone as you walk through your day!

Thoughts to consider:

  1. Don’t label people -People experiencing homelessness not homeless people

  2. Take time to develop a relationship

  3. Treat people with dignity

  4. Build trust

  5. People need a hand up not a handout

Practical suggestions:

  1. Make a list of local resources to hand out

  2. Look up 211.org for resources

  3. Ask for their name

  4. Ask and listen to their story

  5. Start a car ministry

  6. Collect essential items to keep in your car

    • Water

    • Socks

    • Blankets

    • Food items

    • Gift cards for food

    • Hygiene kits

    • Have a bag to store them in and replenish

  7. Pray together

  8. Safety issues

    • Go with a friend

    • Look for eye contact – if none was given then move on

    • Consider Covid and mental health issues

    • Stay in safer places

  9. HOPE Scouts can participate

    • Cards

    • Other encouraging ideas like supply drives

  10. Food drives can help

  11. Donate blood

  12. Be intentional that you want to love your neighbors and plan ahead

  13. Always give love, time, and dignity as we reach out