Ministry for Housing Insecure
We believe everyone deserves a safe place to call home. Our ministry with those experiencing housing insecurity is rooted in dignity, relationship, and justice.
Our Approach
Building Relationships
We don't just serve - we build genuine friendships with our unhoused neighbors. We:
- Show up consistently
- Learn names and stories
- Share meals and conversation
- Walk alongside in times of crisis
Meeting Practical Needs
We provide:
- [Specific services - meals, supplies, etc.]
- [Hygiene items, clothing, etc.]
- [Connection to resources and services]
- [Emergency assistance]
Advocating for Justice
We work for systemic change by:
- Educating ourselves about housing policy
- Advocating for affordable housing
- Challenging stereotypes and stigma
- Using our voices for those without power
Our Partners
We work alongside:
- [Partner Organization 1] - [Brief description]
- [Partner Organization 2] - [Brief description]
- [Community Meal Program] - [Brief description]
- [Shelter/Housing First Program] - [Brief description]
How We Serve
Weekly Street Outreach
- When: [Day/time]
- What: Providing meals, supplies, and connection
- Who can help: All ages welcome (with parent for minors)
- RSVP: [Contact info]
Monthly Community Meal
- When: [Day/time]
- Where: [Location]
- What: Shared meal open to all
- Who can help: Volunteers needed for cooking, serving, cleanup
Winter Shelter Support
- When: [Months]
- What: [Description of winter shelter work]
- Who can help: [How to get involved]
Advocacy Action
- Monthly letter-writing campaigns
- Attending city council meetings
- Supporting housing initiatives
- Raising awareness
What We Need
Volunteers
- Street outreach team members
- Meal preparers and servers
- Drivers for supply runs
- Advocates willing to speak up
Donations
- Hygiene items (travel-size preferred)
- Warm clothing and blankets (winter)
- Tents and sleeping bags
- Non-perishable snacks
- [Other specific needs]
Financial Support
- Emergency assistance fund
- Supply purchases
- Support for partner organizations
Get Involved
Ready to join us in this ministry?
First Steps:
- Come to an orientation session - [dates/times]
- Join us for street outreach or a community meal
- Connect with our ministry team
Questions?
Contact our Housing Ministry Coordinator: [name/email]
Why This Matters
In Matthew 25, Jesus identifies himself with those who are hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, sick, and imprisoned. When we serve our unhoused neighbors, we serve Christ himself.
Housing insecurity isn't just a social issue - it's a justice issue that the church is called to address. Every person deserves:
- A safe place to sleep
- Access to basic necessities
- Dignity and respect
- A community that cares
Learn More
Recommended Resources:
- [Books, articles, podcasts about housing justice]
- [Local housing statistics and reports]
- [Advocacy organizations]
Deepen Your Understanding:
- Attend our quarterly educational sessions
- Read personal stories from those experiencing homelessness
- Follow housing justice advocates
Impact Stories
[Share stories (with permission) of relationships built, lives changed, advocacy wins]
This ministry challenges us to move beyond charity to solidarity, from pity to partnership, from handouts to justice. Join us.