You Can Alleviate Homelessness: Practical Ways to Lift the Lives of the Most Vulnerable
Relief Sculpture "In Love with No Home" by sculptor Suzanne Storer. More information about her works and exhibit can be found at www.suzannestorer.com or by writing to Suzanne Storer at suzannestorer@gmail.com. View also Tom Szalay's video "At The Shelter". Suzanne's exhibit will be on display at the Visual Arts Institute in Salt Lake City as part of the National Council of Education for Ceramic Arts 2025 Conference March 26th through 29th.
Project Human Dignity – Video | November 30, 2024
Homelessness is a complex, overwhelming issue, but the truth is, you can make a real, practical difference. As National Homelessness Awareness Month comes to a close, we are reminded that hundreds of unhoused individuals are still on our streets, holding signs and extending their hands in hope. You may be wondering, What can I do to help?
After four years of working to relaunch lives through farming, I've learned some surprisingly simple ways to assist those facing homelessness. This blog shares insights from local Ogden leaders, service providers, and even state leaders like Governor Cox—who emphasize that it doesn’t take grand gestures, just meaningful actions.
At Eden Streets, we are committed to partnering with local service providers and following our guiding principle from The Declaration of Common Ground: to foster relationships that meet the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of the vulnerable, and to provide assistance wherever we can.
Panel Discussion at First Presbyterian Church of Ogden
Community Outreach: Building Human Connection
Homelessness isn’t just about physical shelter; it’s about community. A powerful example of this is Sunday’s Outreach in the Park, led by Pastor Jesse Kemp of Jesus Bread of Life Ministry in Ogden. This initiative provides a space for people to gather, share a meal, and form meaningful connections. These outreach events are more than just about meeting basic needs—they help restore the human connection and dignity that many individuals experiencing homelessness desperately need. They show that someone cares, helping to ignite hope.
Scarf Bomb fills the front of the chapel
Similarly, Scarf Bomb—a first-ever community-wide event hosted by the First Presbyterian Church of Ogden—illustrates how neighbors can come together to build awareness and support for those without homes. Donating knitted hats, scarves, and mittens is a simple yet impactful way to show that you care. The event included a panel discussion led by Pastor Jon Draskovich and featured Homeless Advocates from Ogden’s Police Department’s Street Outreach program, Family Promise of Ogden, The Lantern House, and Seager Memorial Clinic.
Homeless Advocates from Ogden's Police Department are often the frontline responders in these efforts. They engage those on the streets, offering meal cards, hygiene kits, and connecting them to shelters, counseling services, and medical care. As compassionate citizens, we can help by greeting those in need and offering support, but let the Advocates do their job. For your safety, it is best not to offer rides or invite people into your home. Instead, provide a listening ear and direct them to the appropriate resources.
Relief Sculpture "Liberty and Justice for All" by sculptor Suzanne Storer. More information about her works and exhibit can be found at www.suzannestorer.com or by writing to Suzanne Storer at suzannestorer@gmail.com. View also Tom Szalay's video "At The Shelter". Suzanne's exhibit will be on display at the Visual Arts Institute in Salt Lake City as part of the National Council of Education for Ceramic Arts 2025 Conference March 26th through 29th.
Breaking the Paradigms of Homelessness
Homelessness isn’t a choice—it’s a crisis. People find themselves on the streets for many reasons: trauma, mental illness, domestic violence, substance abuse, and more. For the unhoused, perhaps the hardest struggle is the loss of basic human dignity. Without stable housing and community support, it’s easy to feel invisible or unworthy of help.
But here’s the truth: everyone has inherent dignity. With the right support, individuals can transition from survival mode to self-sufficiency. The most successful solutions to homelessness come from building relationships and establishing trust. Personal accountability, transitional employment, and peer support are essential for long-term success.
Utah's 2024 Homelessness Conference, Salt Lake City
How You Can Help: Simple Actions for Big Impact
Homelessness can feel overwhelming, but small actions lead to alleviate homelessness. Here are some concrete steps you can take to make a difference in the lives of those most vulnerable:
1. Build Empathy and Human Connection
Treat individuals with dignity and respect—smile, wave, and engage in conversation.
Ask their name, how they’re managing, and listen to their story. Show them they are seen.
Offer hope and compassion. Sometimes, just showing that you care can make all the difference.
2. Connect People to Resources
Share information about local shelters, food pantries, and outreach services.
If you’re unsure where to start, call a Homeless Advocate or direct the person to a local shelter for further assistance.
Give them a flyer with contact details for shelters and other local service providers.
Your county's Local Homeless Council will be a good resource. They help coordinate homeless support services among government agencies and nonprofit providers.
3. Donate Material Goods
Donate furniture, clothing, bedding, and essential items like socks, underwear, and hygiene kits.
Help local organizations by volunteering to sort and distribute donations.
Partner with local organizations that accept items for redistribution, like Do Good Today and others in your area.
4. Support Financially
Provide meal card gift certificates (e.g., $10) to fast-food restaurants near areas where people gather.
Donate money to local homeless service organizations to help fund critical outreach and housing programs.
5. Volunteer and Engage
Participate in community outreach events or organize support efforts in your area.
Volunteer to assist with organizing in-kind donations, helping with furniture moves, or providing emotional support at shelters.
Consider coming to a street outreach as a friend in a capacity that helps build relationships with those facing homelessness.
Final Thought: One Step at a Time
No matter where you’re at in life, there’s always something you can do. Whether it’s through donating time, resources, or simply showing compassion, small actions can create a lasting impact. By working together, we can ensure that homelessness is rare, brief, and non-recurring.
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