Making a Difference: Moms Helping Homeless Vets

[amynavymom]

Each day, you may see men and women, even some with children, standing at busy intersections with homemade signs, asking for food or money. Many of these individuals have no permanent home and a some may even be a veteran. As someone with a roof over her head, a pantry stocked with food, and a closet full of clothes, it can be difficult to drive by someone asking for help, particularly if your children are in the car and you want to set a good example.

 

As tempting as it may be to offer a charitable donation, it’s natural to be hesitant, not knowing if the money will be used for essential things. How do you explain homelessness to a child? If you practice kindness in your home, and expect your children to follow suit, how can you pass up the opportunity to help? Here are some ways to help a homeless veteran in your community:

Rethinking Monetary Donations

 

Many people, who want to help homeless veterans, think that the only way to make a sizeable difference is by offering a monetary donation. While money is always helpful, it may not be used for basic needs. Some of the homeless population struggles with substance abuse and when asking for money, any money that is donated is used on drugs or alcohol.

 

Rather than making assumptions or not helping people who truly need help covering the costs for basic needs, consider donating to a local organization that allocates money directly into services and goods for homeless veterans.

Feeding a Community

 

If you encounter someone asking for money, offer to buy a few groceries or take him or her into the restaurant with you for a meal. Not only are you helping him or her get a meal during the day, but it can open up an opportunity to get to know more about someone.

 

Some people feel comfortable sharing a meal with a stranger, others do not. If you aren’t comfortable with sharing a meal, particularly if children are in tow, consider volunteering at a local food shelf or food kitchen. By getting the whole family involved, you can teach your children about the importance of helping others, no matter their background.

Create a Usable Care Package

 

For years, well-intentioned individuals across the country have passed out “Blessings Bags” in an effort to help out homeless men and women. While these care packages are often filled with essential items, some of the items are less essential. For instance, avoid toiletries that may contain alcohol (like mouthwash or hand sanitizer) and pack more protein rich food items rather than sugary or crunchy snacks.

 

You could go so far to creating a “his” and “her” care package and including essentials that women may need, such as feminine hygiene products. When handing out a care package, don’t “give and run.” Instead, take the time to offer the care package and if a homeless vet accepts, take some time to chat and see what other kind of help he or she needs.

Assisting with Appointments or Job Preparation

 

Many homeless vets are trying to get back on track and hoping to find housing or employment. Join a local organization or organize a group of volunteers who are willing to offer rides to appointments or job interviews. Do you have a skill that could be valuable to helping a homeless vet better him or herself? Maybe you have experience cutting hair, work in human resources, or have a medical background.

 

By offering up your services, you can help a homeless veteran gain confidence to land a job with a fresh haircut and practicing interview questions. Your life experiences may be a valuable tool in helping homeless veterans.