If you’re like me, the sight of neighbors who are sleeping outdoors squeezes your heart with sadness. These are not just nameless, faceless people, but brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers. As a SF Bay Area native, I have a deep love for the overlooked, the forgotten, and the socially unaccepted. This passion to show love to the underserved, acted as my catalyst to have founded and lead SHARE Community, a 501(c)(3); a long time dream of mine that has finally materialized.
One of the most visible problems we face in our communities today is homelessness and the lack of resources to serve them. More specifically, the lack to fulfill the basic human need of toilets and showers. As of February 2020, there are 3,093 residents of Contra Costa County who are unhoused, 2,329 of those people are sleeping outside on the streets. These numbers are staggering! And this is why SHARE Community started our mobile shower and hygiene services. Not only do these services meet a basic human need, but they affirm dignity of those who feel so unseen.
How can you make a difference in the lives of the overlooked?
Here are some simple ways you can help make the overlooked feel seen and affirm dignity:
Look at people in the eyes and greet them.
For those you see often, ask their name and use it.
If possible, allow people to choose what you're offering them (think: would you like water, sprite, or juice?)
We believe that you don’t give people dignity. You affirm it.
Remember, love is action.
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