The Weather Outside Is Frightful, Especially If You Are Sleeping Outside...

Imagine being homeless at this time of year...

The weather outside is frightful, especially if you are sleeping outside.  I can't fathom being so cold for so long.  And hungry, hunger is also something they face on a daily basis. Imagine all winter long feeling the tightness of hunger pains, being chilled to the bone, and feeling isolated, day in and day out.

Family is such a huge focus during the holiday season, and to know that most of them are estranged from their own is heart wrenching.  Everyone longs to be with people, no matter who they are, it is part of what makes us human beings.  People want to belong.  In our society the homeless are like the "misfit toys" in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.  No one wants them, they go through life being ignored, ridiculed, and looked down upon by the masses. 

Let them know they are not alone, we are all people, we all connected.  Have a heart this holiday and show them you care.  There are many, many ways to do this: share a friendly chat, offer your support, give a gift, volunteer at homeless facilities, etc.

My favorite idea is to keep a couple dozen, ready-made gift bags in the car to give to each homeless person you see.  Here is a list of what I would suggest including in the bags:

Cute Reusable Gift Bag

My Gift Bag Supply List:

Hand Warmers
A pair of Sturdy Gloves
Pack of Thick Winter Socks
Healthy Packaged Food
Toiletries: Soaps, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Lotion, Chapstick, etc.
Hand Written Card, That Tells Them They Are Important


...God be with them this season...