I give sermons at congregations across New England. I speak about the issues facing the unhoused community, their experiences, and our connections to the cause. I aim to educate, inspire, and emotionally connect with our audiences in hopes of motivating people to take action and contribute to solutions in the housing crisis. I also speak to and connect with youth groups to inspire the next generation of change and create a community of people who care.
With members at congregations, I hold drives for local homeless organizations. I gather their most needed items such as backpacks, toiletries, clothes/winter layers, and packaged food. I also work with other congregations and their youth groups to hold drives at their own churches in collaboration with this initiative. In collecting these items, I am able to support partner homeless organizations with more than monetary donations.
I host a variety of volunteer events, including cooking events where I, with other congregation members, prepare large meals such as lasagna, pasta, and soups for local homeless shelters; tours of homeless shelters; writing letters to unhoused individuals with youth groups; and large-scale volunteer events including overnight volunteer events.
I have pass-the-plate and other opportunities to donate at the congregations where I speak. I understand that homeless organizations are always in need of more funds to support those who seek their assistance and to make their shelters a safe and accessible place.
I take the resources and funds from these various events and donate them to "frontline" organizations. These include Rosie's Place, The Community Day Center of Waltham, and The Pine Street Inn. I connect with the executive directors at these organizations to determine how I can best support them and the people they serve. I chose organizations that provide multiple levels of support to help guests rebuild their lives.