Homeless for 24 hours

We know living in poverty or being homeless isn’t easy. But besides worrying about where to sleep or where your next meal will come from, there are other things to consider. Deb Lowell with the Abbotsford Salvation Army says they’re having a group of citizens become “homeless” for 24 hours next week.

“We’re not going to make these individuals into somebody else, but we’re going to approach it as ‘you have suddenly found yourself homeless, and here is your case plan for the day, here are the things you need to help you get you where you need to be by the end of the day’. So that might mean talking to a landlord, or contacting social assistance.”

They won’t be taking up any real shelter space, but they will not be sleeping comfortably, they won’t have cars, or cell phones or internet access. This will be an authenic experience, even if it’s only for one day. These people are also being sponsored, and are trying to raise $30,000 for the local Sally Ann.

Lowell says with Thanksgiving weekend coming up, and considering next week is Homelessness Action Week, now is a good time to remind people to take a look at their own lives, and see if there’s a way they can help someone who is struggling with poverty or homelessness every day.