Help for the Homeless

Last week, I shared about walking on tightropes.  I mentioned that one of the balancing acts that we must endure is balancing humility and pride – especially when it comes to serving others.  As a reminder, Jesus shares in the book of Matthew how we are to proceed when we help the needy:

“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”  Matthew 6:1-4

It’s clear that we are to help the needy – the homeless, the widows, and the orphans.  But how do we do that in an on-line world?  How also can we spur each other on (Hebrews 10:24) without getting the word out about opportunities to serve?  These are questions I wrestle with as I write today’s post.

Our H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Everywhere) group is in the process of gathering items to assemble kits for homeless people in conjunction with Good Samaritan Shelter in Phoenixville, PA.  Our goal is to assemble 40 kits, and our group as done a great job so far in gathering items.  But we could still use a little extra help as we seek to finish up this project (which we’ll be assembling at our November 6th meeting).  If you can help out with a few items (or know someone who could help), it would be much appreciated.  Here are the items that we’re still looking for:

• deodorant (8)
• shampoo (trial size) (6)
• conditioner (trial size) (11)
• nail clipper (25)
• washcloth (40)
• hand towel (20)
• scarf (21)

If you can help out with any of the items, leave me a comment and my wife or I will get back to you.

Thanks!

Are their homeless people in your area?  How do you or how can you help?