Second AnnualMaricopa County
Homelessness Awareness Week
This booklet contains the following materials, provided by the participating organizations and presented in this form by the Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness:
Calendar of Events2009 State of Homelessness
Second Annual Homelessness Awareness WalkLetter to Faith-based Organizations
Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Church School CurriculumLetter to Exhibitors
You may turn pages to flip forward and backward in this booklet by clicking the arrows to the right and left of each double-page. Or you may click on any of the content items above to go
directly to that page.
Rev. 10/02/09
Participating
Organizations
Arizona Coalition
to End
Homelessness
Arizona
Department of
Economic
Security
Basic Mission
Central Arizona
Shelter Services
Community
Information &
Referral
Lodestar Day
Resource Center
Maricopa
Association of
Governments
Tempe
Community
Action Agency
Tumbleweed
Center for Youth
Development
UMOM New Day
Centers
Valley of the Sun
United Way
MARICOPA COUNTY HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS WEEK OCTOBER 25 – 31, 2009
We are proud to lead a county-wide effort to bring greater awareness to the issues related to homelessness.
Below is a list of simple things you can do to participate in the awareness week. Each of us must take action
to ensure everyone has a safe place to call home. If we all work together with commitment, creativity and
heart, we can change our community in fundamental, lasting ways.
Sunday, October 25 Faith-based organizations will present information in their services. They will ask congregations to participate in the Awareness Walk. A curriculum is available to teach children about hunger and homelessness.
Monday, October 26
Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness
Welcome and Morning Address: Honorable Janice K. Brewer, Governor of Arizona Lunch Keynote Speaker: Becky Kanis, Director of Innovations, Common Ground More information on www.azceh.org Tuesday, October 27
Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness
Lunch Keynote Speaker: Col. Joey Strickland, Director Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
Visit www.azceh.org for more information.
Wednesday, October 28 Faces of Homelessness Speakers Bureau
Learn from individuals who have experienced homelessness what it is like to deal with these difficult and
complex issues.
Three Valley locations:
Surprise: Free, bring your brown bag lunch.
Noon to 1:00 p.m., Surprise Public Safety Building – Fire Administration Auditorium, 14250 W. Statler
Plaza Blvd. Suite 100, Surprise, AZ 8537.
Tempe: Free, bring your brown bag lunch.
Noon to 1:00 p.m. City of Tempe. Contact Erika at [email protected] for details.
Tempe: $10.00 donation, dinner provided. 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, Omega Phi Alpha, Kappa Delta Chi. Location to be determined. Contact Erika at [email protected] for details.
Thursday, October 29
Project Homeless Connect
Chandler Christian Church, 1825 S Alma School Road, Chandler Collect items to donate: new socks, underwear, men’s clothing, roll-on deodorant, backpacks.
Friday, October 30
Second Annual Awareness Walk to the Capitol
In memory of Howard Marquardt who passed away July 25 on a park bench outside of the Herberger Theater Center and in support of all those who experience homelessness every day we will walk to build awareness of this pressing issue.
9:00 a.m. Kick Off at Herberger Theater; the first 400 walkers to arrive will receive a free t-shirt.
9:15 a.m. walkers leave Herberger Theater
10:00 a.m. arrive at Arizona State Capitol
10:15 a.m. Presentations at Capitol: Jacki Taylor, Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness, State Representative Chad Campbell, success stories and more
Saturday, October 31
Call to the public! Consider spending part of your day volunteering with an organization that helps to end
homelessness. Find projects at HandsOn Greater Phoenix www.handsonphoenix.org or
www.volunteermatch.org
VISIT WWW.VSUW.ORG FOR UPDATED EVENT DETAILS
2009 State of Homelessness
in Maricopa County
A Look at the Issue
Homelessness remains a pressing issue
throughout Arizona as more families and
individuals turn to emergency resources for
support as a result of the economic downturn.
Often there are multiple factors that create a state
of crisis for an individual or family that ultimately
push them to experience homelessness. In today’s
tough economy, it can be job loss or not being able
to keep up with mortgage payments and expensive
medical bills. The complex issue also touches
individuals with disabilities and those experiencing
mental illness and addictions.
Partners Work Together to Address
Homelessness
Locally, the Maricopa County Homelessness
Awareness Coalition is working to raise awareness
around the issue and encourage the public to
make a difference.
The coalition is a partnership that brings together
representatives from homeless service providers,
nonprofits, state and local government and faith-
based organizations to host an annual
homelessness awareness week.
Success Story
Stan found himself homeless in May of this
year when his roommate’s house went into
foreclosure. He had recently moved to
Arizona from Idaho as a way to start his life
over. Stan entered the Interfaith Homeless
Emergency Lodging Program in Tempe in the
beginning of July after living in his truck was
no longer feasible. He set goals to find
employment and find stable housing. Within
two weeks Stan set up five job interviews.
He was offered two separate positions and
accepted a job as a driver for a local charity.
He found a room to rent in Tempe that he
moved into the first week of August. Stan’s
determination combined with the I-HELP
program’s assistance resulted in this amazing
turn around.
To learn more about I-HELP, please visit
tempeaction.org
Statewide Homelessness Statistics
Nearly 19,000 homeless individuals live in Arizona. Of these: • 66 % of homeless individuals find a bed at a shelter • 34 % of homeless individuals live on the street
Maricopa County Statistics
About 8,000 homeless individuals live in Maricopa County. Of these: • 63 % of homeless individuals find a bed at a shelter • 37 % of homeless individuals live on the street
Sources: Maricopa Association of Governments 2009 Homeless Street Count, Arizona Department of Economic Security 2009 Shelter Count
Facts about Homelessness in Maricopa
County 33 % of sheltered homeless persons in Maricopa County
receive some form of income (retirement, social security, wages, etc.).
12 % of the adults entering shelter in Maricopa County are employed.
9 % of homeless persons sheltered in Maricopa County are military veterans.
11 % of homeless females sheltered in Maricopa County report a history of domestic violence.
Lack of financial resources, eviction and loss of job are the three biggest reasons given, by persons entering shelter. .in Maricopa County, for becoming homeless.
Every year Community Action Programs (CAP) provide a
vital safety net for families and individuals on the edge of
becoming homeless. These prevention efforts are crucial in
reducing the number of new families and individuals who
become homeless each year.
This past year CAP Offices throughout Maricopa County
assisted 30,244 unduplicated individuals (9837 households)
with utility/rental/mortgage assistance totaling
$40,366,736.00 in homeless prevention efforts.
In 2009, SRP and APS provided approximately $500,000 in
utility discounts to 2888 households.
Positive Efforts / Innovative Programs:
Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program
(I-HELP): For over three years Tempe Community Action
Agency has been administering I-HELP in partnership with
the faith community. Currently 10 faith communities donate
their facility space to lodge approximately 30 individuals.
The host site rotates among the 10 locations, while other
faith-based and service groups coordinate to provide meals
each evening. In fiscal year 2008-2009, 273 unduplicated
individuals were served in the program. Approximately
9,360 meals were provided by volunteers. Other significant
outcomes include:
72 clients obtained vital documentation 26 clients obtained government benefits 71 clients obtained employment 29 clients obtained housing
Project Homeless Connect (PHC): Started in San
Francisco, the Project Homeless Connect model has been
duplicated in many communities with successful results. The
goal is to bring together diverse entities from the community
for one day under one roof to provide services to individuals
and families experiencing homelessness. Services must be
immediately available, so providers do not merely give
appointments or referrals for the future. Guests are treated
with respect and hospitality; a volunteer is paired with each
guest who can assist as they access available services.
Tempe started hosting the first PHC in January of 2007 and
with the help of the Valley of the Sun United Way, PHC is
now facilitated valley wide on a monthly basis. As of
August 2009, over 1600 individuals experiencing
homelessness have received assistance through PHC.
Homeless Prevention Efforts
Dispelling Myths:
MYTH – All homeless people are single adult
males.
REALITY:
35 % of homeless persons sheltered in
Maricopa County are members of families
with children.
36 % of the homeless are female.
22 % of the homeless persons sheltered in
Maricopa County are children under the age
of 18.
MYTH –Homeless people abuse the shelter
system by rotating between multiple shelters.
REALITY:
68% of homeless persons sheltered in
Maricopa County over the last 6 ½ years
have utilized the services of only one provider
agency.
Only 5 % of homeless persons sheltered in
Maricopa County over the last 6 ½ years
have spent time at 3 or more shelters.
MYTH – Undocumented immigrants are using
up scarce shelter resources.
REALITY:
Only 1% of homeless persons sheltered in
Maricopa County are undocumented
immigrants.
Source: Homeless Management Information System, 2008
How you can help:
Treat people experiencing homelessness with dignity and respect.
Donate sunscreen, toiletries, blankets, and clothing to a homeless provider.
Register to volunteer for the next Project
Homeless Connect event at www.vsuw.org/volunteer/project-homeless-connect
Join the Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness to influence local, state, and federal policies and laws at www.azceh.org
Learn what is needed by children and youth experiencing homelessness in your area at www.ade.az.gov/schooleffectiveness/specialpops/homeless/ and speak to a homeless school liaison.
In memory of Howard Marquardt who passed away July 25 on a park bench outside of the Herberger Theater Center and in support of all those who experience homelessness every day we will walk to build awareness of this pressing issue.
Join other concerned citizens in educating the public and policy-makers regarding the current status of homelessness in Maricopa County to wrap-up Homelessness Awareness Week. Local service providers will have information booths at the Capitol. Attendees will be able to learn about available services and social services agencies needs for in-kind items and volunteers.
Jacki Taylor, Arizona
Coalition to End Homelessness
Chad Campbell,
Arizona House of Representatives
Success Story
And more!
SPEAKERS:
Sponsoring Organizations
Arizona Department of Economic Security, Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness, Basic Mission, Central Arizona
Shelter Services, Lodestar Day Resource Center, Maricopa Association of Governments, Tempe Community Action
Agency, Tumbleweed Center for Youth Development, UMOM New Day Center, Valley of the Sun United Way
Second Annual Homelessness Awareness Walk
Friday, October 30, 2009
9:00 AM Meet at Herberger Theater,
222 E Monroe Street, Phoenix
9:15 AM Walkers leave for Capitol
10:00 AM Walkers arrive at Capitol
10:15 AM Speakers at Capitol
Parking available at Wesley Bolin Plaza, 1700 W Washington
Street. Ride the DASH to Herberger Theater Center.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30 SCHEDULE: The first 400 walkers will receive
a free t-shirt!
Maricopa County Homelessness Awareness Week is
October 25—31, 2009
Visit www.vsuw.org for more information or contact Andrew Grove at 602.631.4882
Participating
Organizations
Arizona Coalition
to End
Homelessness
Arizona
Department of
Economic
Security
Basic Mission
Central Arizona
Shelter Services
Community
Information &
Referral
Lodestar Day
Resource Center
Maricopa
Association of
Governments
Tempe
Community
Action Agency
Tumbleweed
Center for Youth
Development
UMOM New Day
Centers
Valley of the Sun
United Way
October 1, 2009
RE: Maricopa County Homelessness Awareness Week We, a coalition of human service providers, are proud to join schools, communities, and cities to bring greater awareness to the issues related to homelessness. Maricopa County Homelessness Awareness Week is October 25-31, 2009.
Many agency and provider representatives in Maricopa County have planned activities for Homelessness Awareness Week in an effort to raise our communities’ consciousness around the issues. There will be an Awareness Walk to the Capitol to close the week on Friday, October 30, 2009. Please see the enclosed flyer for details. Help us promote participation in the awareness walk by sharing this information during your worship services preceding the event. The awareness walk will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Herberger Theater Center. We will at 9:15 am and arrive at the Capitol at 10:00 a.m. The first 400 walkers will receive a free t-shirt. There is also a “Church School Curriculum” available for adaptation to other faiths or to use as inspiration for your own teaching format. A summary of the curriculum is attached, as well as the full curriculum for your review. We believe that we can all work together with commitment, creativity and heart to change our community in fundamental, lasting ways. We can work collaboratively with our resources and time to help those in need. Your participation will make a difference in somebody’s life. Thank you for helping us to increase awareness of the issues related to homelessness in Maricopa County. If you have any questions please call Amy Schwabenlender at 602.631.4841, email: [email protected] or Andrew Grove at 602.631.4882, email: [email protected]
I am Sam Sam, a formerly homeless man in Phoenix, lost his job and his home when he stopped everything to
take care of his daughter who was facing a life-threatening illness. He found help through the Maricopa County Human Services Campus and has regained stability in his life.
While it is common to generalize about “the homeless,” Sam’s story reminds us all that each person
experiencing homelessness is a unique and dignified human being.
Our awareness campaign “I am Sam” reminds us that homelessness could happen to anyone.
Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Church School
Curriculum
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Hunger and Homelessness Awareness
Church School Curriculum
Table of Contents
Children.…………………………………………………………………………………… 1
Suggested Scripture…..………………………………………………………………………1
Today’s Life Lesson…………..……………………………………………………………...1
Object Lesson One: I’m Hungry…..………………………………………………....2
Object Lesson Two: Not the Same………………..………………………………….2
Fact Finder………..………………………………………………………………………......2
Games……………..………………………………………………………………………….4
Game One: Groundless…………..…………………………………………………...4
Game Two: Toilet Paper Race……………………..…………………………………4
Questions Reviewing Facts……………………..………………………………………….…5
Games……………………………..……………………………………………………….....6
Game One: Sunday Sundae………………………………..………………………....6
Game Two: Super Soda Search………………………………..……………………..6
Situation………………………………..…………………………………………………….6
Object Lesson One: Here Come Da Judge………………………………………..….6
Editor’s Note……………………………………………..…………………………………..7
Review of United Methodist Book of Resolutions…………………………………..……….7
Possible Activities………………………………..…………………………………………...8
Youth……………………………………..………………………………………………..…9
Suggested Scripture…………………………………..…………………………………...…..9
Fact Finder……………………………………..…………………………………………...…9
The Lord’s Prayer in The Message Version…………………………………..……………....9
Scripture Lesson: I Corinthians 4:6-13……………………………………..……………......10
Object Lesson One: To Talk or Not to Talk – That is the Question………..………..10
Object Lesson Two: What’s to Eat……………………..…………………………....10
Object Lesson Three: Down on Your Luck – or Not?.................................................11
Sermon Thoughts…………………..………………………………………………………...11
Adults……………………………………………..………………………………………....12
Facts about Homelessness…………………………………………..………………………..12
Fact Finder………………………………………………..………………………………….12
Discussion……………………………………………..………………………………..........12
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Overview – United Methodist Churches are called to be faithful to God and to God’s actions
in the world. As United Methodists we believe God is the parent of all – that all people are
created in God’s image and that it is the right of all people to have a full and abundant life.
The Bible is clearly concerned that there be a place for the displaced people among us.
“What we must seek for all people is safe, sanitary and affordable housing . . . but we must do
more. . . We must build community (The Book of Resolutions of the United Methodist
Church, 2004, p. 327.)
With this goal in mind, we will look at what we can do to be the voice of justice for our
country as a place of hope for people who need safe and affordable shelter.
Children (5 to 12 years of age)
Suggested Scripture Lessons:
I Corinthians 4:6-13
Luke 9:10-17
Luke 3:11
Matthew 25:36
Opening Prayer:
Thank God for the food that we are blessed to have each day, and remember those who do not
have enough food, who go to bed hungry. Ask for blessing the many people who grow and
prepare our food.
Thank God for the many blessings that we experience by being able to live in a house or
apartment, but also ask God to watch over people who have nowhere to live and keep them
safe.
Today’s Life Lesson –
Props: Large cardboard box and a large towel
(Move to sit or lie in the box) “Well, this is interesting. What would it be like to have this
box for your house – your real house -- where you live, eat, and sleep every single day of your
life? I mean, it’s kind of . . . “(Go through the pros and cons of what this box would be like as
your only shelter. For example, the rain would eventually come through and even destroy the
box. It’s not comfortable – no room for a bed – all you have is this big towel to keep you
warm. Where do you store food? Where can you cook food? Where is there to wash, or go
to the restroom?)
Today we are going to be talking about homelessness. We are going to be talking about
situations and people who have no house, no apartment, nowhere to sleep or even to BE,
except out on the streets or in a homeless shelter. That is what being “homeless” is. Nowhere
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permanent to go. I wonder if that’s what God wanted – for any of God’s people not to have
anywhere to live. . . .
Let’s hear some facts about what it’s like to be homeless in the state of Arizona today.
(Check the Internet for facts about your state or see Fact Finder, below.)
Bible Story, Luke 9:10-17 Tell the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000.
You know, this must have seemed pretty overwhelming for some of the disciples – not
enough food and a whole lot of people. But through Jesus, through faith, they found a way.
“Found a way” -- That’s something to think about. In life, when we encounter a problem, we
have two choices. We can give up because the problem seems soooo big, or, like Jesus, we
can find a way. The problem of hunger in the United States, in the WORLD, is a big
problem. If we turn our heads away and refuse to think about it, does the problem go away?
The answer is no. There is ALWAYS a way to figure out a problem. The solution might be
difficult and hard to find, but it’s there. We just have to push up our sleeves and get to work.
Object Lesson One: I’m Hungry
Prop: Some sort of pre-packaged desert treat
I’m starved, I’m starved, I’m starved. Thank goodness there is this (name of food item). I am
going to eat this and I will feel totally so much better! What do you think? (Allow for
answers) You see, the thing is, with food like this, it’s made up of mostly one item. Does
anyone have an idea what that is? It’s sugar! And the deal with sugar is (1), it’s not good for
your overall health; (2) it can pack on the pounds; and (3) it really won’t satisfy your hunger!
Did you know that? It will be fine for a little while, but then you’ll be hungry all over again.
Your body doesn’t need sugar, and it lets you know that by making you feel hungry again.
You are lucky and blessed – You have a choice. Most, if not all, of you can pretty well pick
what you eat. It’s not the same for everyone in the world.
Object Lesson Two: Not the Same
Prop: World Map
I would like to point out some places on the earth to you. This is the United States, our
country. Arizona is right here. Like we just said, we’re pretty blessed for the most part in our
country. We can get food one way or another. This is the continent of Africa. Almost all
countries in Africa are extremely poor. This is Sri Lanka. This country is called India.
Fact Finder
-- Tonight, over 21,000 people in Arizona will be considered homeless.
-- People who are homeless usually encounter violence.
-- Many people who can’t think well (mentally ill) end up homeless.
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-- Many people who are homeless have drug or alcohol problems.
-- There are not enough homeless shelters in the United States to house the
number of people who are homeless.
-- Many teens who run away from home end up homeless and live on the
streets.
Teacher: I would like to go over each of the facts that I just gave you. These are some very
hard things for people to understand. But they are real, and they exist in our country, the
United States of America, today.
Fact One – I said that over 21,000 people in our state will be considered homeless. I started
the sentence with the word “tonight.” My question to you is what do you think “tonight” will
be like for them? How will they spend this evening? (Allow for answers) Yeah. It doesn’t
sound very nice, does it?
Fact Two – I told you that people who are homeless, living out on the streets, usually
encounter some form of violence. They might be hit by someone, beaten up, robbed of the
few possessions or small amount of money they have. People on the streets know this
happens. How do you think knowing this affects how they sleep? (Allow for answers) Not a
restful sleep. . . .
Fact Three – I said that many people who can’t think well, who are what’s called mentally ill,
end up homeless. This is so sad. Mostly they end up homeless because our country does not
have a strong system of housing for mentally ill people. I think it would be awful enough to
be homeless and have to worry about where my next meal was going to come from, or if
someone was going to hurt me. But what if I couldn’t think straight? What if I had that
illness of not being able ever to really figure out day-to-day things in life? And then had to
sleep in a park or in some dark alley every night? Wouldn’t I be even more afraid? How
terrible.
Fact Four – I mentioned that statistics show that many people who are homeless have
problems abusing either drugs or alcohol. That’s something for you to think about when
somebody asks you to try drugs or drink a beer. What if you can’t handle it? What if you get
so messed up that you are now the next homeless kid on the street? Is that what you want for
your life? Or what your parents want? How would they feel if they lost you to the streets and
to drugs? Not very good, I suspect. But even more important: Is this the kind of life God
wants for you? Or for anyone?
Fact Five – I said that there are not enough homeless shelters in the United States to give a
bed for a night to all the homeless people out there. That’s why you see people on the streets.
Have you ever seen someone with a shopping cart who you thought was homeless? Chances
are, even though they would like to go to a shelter, get a SAFE night’s sleep, eat some healthy
food and take a shower, there is no room. Do you remember when the innkeeper told Mary
and Joseph there was no room at the inn? And where was Jesus born? – in a stable, a barn, a
cave. Don’t you think that Jesus has a special place in His heart for people who cannot find
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anywhere to stay? What would Jesus think about the innkeeper? (Allow for answers) So
then what does Jesus think about a city that can’t help all of its homeless people? (Allow for
answers) Good thoughts. Let’s keep going.
Fact Six (the last one) – I said that many kids who run away from home end up homeless.
They think they can make it out in the world, but that’s not what happens most of the time. I
bet we’ve all gotten angry with mom or dad or the world at some point and wanted to book it
on out of home. Hit the streets. But WARNING – WARNING – what if you end up
homeless? All the things you’ve just heard – What if that’s you someday? It’s something to
think about as we learn more about homelessness.
But right now, let’s think about playing some games! First up – Everybody plays!
GAMES
Game One: Groundless (All play – Divide the faith community into two equal teams)
Props: Ten to twelve balls (can be various sizes and types)
Object: The object of this game is to keep all the balls in the air at all times. They MUST
NOT EVER LAND on the ground. Somebody has to catch them and throw them up into the
air. You cannot hold a ball for longer than one second. How long? One second. Exactly.
Once you get the ball, throw it up in the air as high as you can. Then keep your head up and
eyes open, because a ball may be headed your way. Keep all the balls up in the air. If a ball
does hit the ground, it has to stay on the ground. You will have four minutes. The team with
the most balls left wins.
Wow! Watching all those balls never being able to land made me think about homeless
people. It’s like they never have anywhere to land. Then, if they find some corner or park
bench, like the balls that had to be left on the ground, they are kind of out of things. Left out.
That must not be a great way to feel.
Okay, Game Number Two – Ladies, the first question is for you.
Game Two: Toilet Paper Race
Props: Four toilet paper rolls (unless more are needed due to faith community size); four
prizes
(Even out the sides in terms of total number of participants)
Question One: Let’s talk about economic migrants. The word “entitled” means that we, just
because we are alive and on the planet, have the right to have certain things – like clean air,
for example. (Addressing the girls) If I said, No, you might want this, but you would have to
work hard and earn the money for it – because you were not “entitled” to it, what is the object
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I would be talking about? (Big-screen television, for example). Wow! That’s a good answer.
Pick a friend and come up to the front.
Question Two: Question two is for the dudes. That kind of rhymes. Two, Dude – Never
mind. Gentlemen! What color is the flag that you would see in a desert, which means water?
(Blue) See, girls –The guys listen! Good job. Pick a friend and come on up.
Object: The object of this game is to stretch a roll of toilet paper throughout the rows. But
the paper cannot break. If it does, the players must start over. If they run out of toilet paper,
then the new roll begins where the old row ended. This is not as easy as it sounds. If the
players move too quickly, the paper will break and they will have to start over. Paper can be
laid on the children’s laps, or have the rows hold the paper up. Once the players reach the last
person, they must walk quickly up to the front and tag the director before being declared the
winner.
1. Can anyone tell me – How many people will be homeless tonight in our state?
(Arizona: approximately 21,000)
2. Name something that a homeless person might run into out on the streets.
(Violence, drugs, alcohol)
3. What can happen to teens who run away from home?
(Become homeless
4. If you are mentally ill, as many homeless people are, what is your problem?
(Can’t think clearly)
5. Many people who are homeless abuse what substances?
(Drugs, alcohol)
Good job! You did a good job of listening. Tough places to be in. Are the homeless God’s
children, just like you and me? The answer is yes. And we need to care – about everyone,
and everything, on the planet. God wants us to care. We must. Let’s learn some more now
about the quality of housing that is available to people who are poor.
Over one million houses in the United States do not have enough plumbing – not enough
bathtubs, showers, or toilets.
Over one million houses in the United States have bad plumbing – in other words, bad toilets
that don’t work properly.
One out of every seven families in the United States lives in a house with either no electricity
or no hot water or no toilet or bath/shower.
Over six million people in the United States live in a house that has too many people for the
amount of space in the home.
That doesn’t sound very good for our people, does it?
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GAMES
Game One: Sunday Sundae (all play – Divide the faith community into two equal teams)
Props: Ice cream sundaes in bowls, plastic spoons
Object: Teams are divided into two rows. Whichever team finishes eating their sundaes first
is declared the winner!
Game Two: Super Soda Search
Props: Two boxes of baking soda, two large bowls, 50 CLOSED safety pins, two blindfolds,
two prizes
Question One: In a Bible story, the apostle Paul was writing to people from the city of
Corinth. What are those people called? They are the . . . ? (Corinthians)
Question Two: Paul felt that something was wrong with the Corinthian people. What did he
say they were doing that was not fair to other people? (Judging others)
Object: Empty a box of baking soda into each of the two large bowls. Add 25 CLOSED
safety pins. The object of the game is for the blindfolded players, as quickly as possible, to
feel their way around and pull out as many pins as possible in a defined time period.
SITUATION
You see an apartment building. You notice that one apartment’s windows are broken out.
What kinds of impressions might people have about the people who live in that apartment?
(Note that it could be that folks don’t care about that window – OR – It was just broken earlier
today and they haven’t had the repairman out yet.)
Do you see how unfair our comments can be? Some people might say that those folks are
probably poor and can’t replace the windows. Or they don’t care. HOW DO YOU KNOW?
Tell me, what would be a better way to think about this situation, and, more important, how
could we, as Christians, help the situation? (Both from the window standpoint, as well as –
like Paul – helping others not to be so quick to judge – Allow for answers. Teach the faith
community how to respond as Christians, who follow the teachings of Christ.)
Object Lesson One: Here Come Da Judge!
Props: Roll of pennies; package of cookies; package of individually wrapped hard candy (all
in quantities for only half the faith community)
Divide up the faith community according to the color of their eyes. Blue eyes are the poor
people; brown eyes are the rich people. Anyone else doesn’t get recognized at all. So you
will have three distinct groups.
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Teacher: All right, now remember – Blue-eyed group, you’re poor, don’t have a cent to your
name. Brown-eyed group, you’re rich. You have lots of money and power. Everybody else,
I want you to observe both groups to see how they respond to what happens to them.
First, let’s talk about feelings. (Go through with each group.) How does it feel to be
“labeled” in the first place? You’re rich, and you’re poor. (Try to highlight that being labeled
“rich” isn’t all that great, either.)
Okay, brown-eyed people, you all get a cookie. (Hand out cookies.) Blue-eyed people, you
get nothing because you have blue eyes.
Okay, brown-eyed people, you each get a penny. (Hand out pennies.) Blue-eyed people,
guess what? You get nothing. Again.
Brown-eyed people, you get to have a piece of candy. Be sure to throw the wrapper on the
ground. (Hand out the candy.)
WAIT! Blue-eyed people, this one is for you: Go pick up all the candy wrappers from what
the brown-eyed people got to eat.
Editor’s Note: Now review what has happened, first with the group of people whose eyes
are neither blue nor brown. What did they observe about the other groups’ behavior?
Then explore the feelings surrounding what happened from each of the groups. You may
be able to draw in the feelings of superiority and “persecution” as noted in the Bible story.
Summarize with the faith community how unfair judgment can be – how unfair labeling
can be. Just because certain people had certain eye colors, they received privileges or they
didn’t. Is this what God wants for us in our treatment of others? You could say the people
with blue eyes had bad luck. You could say that people who find themselves homeless have
had some bad luck. Is it fair for us to judge them or label them? Of course not! How
could each group work on improving their situations? Can we change the world for
others? YES!
Response
The United Methodist Book of Resolutions states: “Homelessness has many faces and many
causes, but its root is in the failure of the nation to commit itself through public policies and
programs to eradicate poverty. Homelessness and poverty cannot be separated. A
comprehensive, all-out attack on poverty must be waged. In order to wage this attack, the
following factors must be addressed:
lack of community support for de-institutionalized people with chronic mental
illness
discontinuance or reduction of public benefits to significant numbers of elderly
and disabled people
a minimum wage structure that locks the working poor into poverty
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loss of family farms
closure of plants and businesses
an economy built increasingly on low-paying temporary and seasonal jobs with
few or no benefits
the increasing number of single-parent households with associated low
incomes
the lack of housing for people with AIDS
displacement of inner-city residents by urban renewal”
Possible activities:
Have the faith community leadership write a letter about any one or more of the above issues,
or any related issue in your community. Work with the kids to have an understanding of the
issue, and then have the faith community sign the letter. Send the letter to an appropriate
government official.
Have someone come talk with the faith community about homelessness and what’s being
done in your area.
Have the faith community organize a town meeting. Devise roles for all kids to fill, from
greeters to baking cookies to set-up and clean-up crews. This is especially effective around
election time. Work with the local church.
Check out area programs which serve the homeless and organize a group from the faith
community to volunteer.
Collect items needed by local homeless shelters such as socks, hygiene items/toiletries, etc.
Check the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) for projects related to the state
of housing or being homeless.
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Youth
Scripture – Luke 3:11 “Whoever has food must share.”
Fact Finder
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and yet many kids and adults
skip this meal. Eating healthy food the first thing in the morning gives you
energy and allows you to think more efficiently.
If a woman who is expecting a baby is always (chronically) hungry, the baby’s
health WILL BE affected when it is born.
The Lord’s Prayer talks about hunger and our right to have food and share
food. “Give us this day our daily bread.”
Props: The Message version of The Lord’s Prayer (see second text below)
Repeat after me:
Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will
be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins,
as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, and deliver us from evil.
For thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory. Amen.
That, my friends, is The Lord’s Prayer from the sixth chapter of the Book of Matthew. I also
want to read to you this same prayer, from a modern or contemporary version of the Bible. It
goes like this:
Our Father in Heaven, reveal who you are.
Set the world right;
Do what’s best –
As above, so below.
Keep us alive with three square meals.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
You’re in charge!
You can do anything you want!
You’re ablaze in beauty!
Yes. Yes. Yes.
It’s kind of different from the first prayer, isn’t it? But it means the same thing. Let’s go over
each line of this second prayer, and I want you to tell me when you hear the words what it
makes you think of. (Sharing by the faith community) Well done. We’re always proud of
you, but we’re really proud of you guys today.
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Scripture Lesson: I Corinthians 4:6-13
Some Christians were bragging about their own talents. Paul pointed out that anything we are
good at comes from God, was given to us by God. The Corinthians thought they were the
best – and instead of continuing to learn and walk humbly with God, they were ruling over
and judging others. That is never the way for any of us to go! We must walk humbly with
God, for everything we are and that we have comes from the Lord. Paul also said that he felt
that God had a purpose in not placing apostles such as himself in a ruler’s position. God
placed them on the earth as humble servants, despised men. (Ask the faith community why
God might have done this.) Paul told the Corinthians all these things not to shame or
embarrass them – thought they might have deserved it! No, he told them these things to warn
them of the seriousness of their judgments and unkind actions and words. Paul knew that he
and the other apostles had a magnificent and strong protector – God.
Teacher: It sounds like Paul was one wise man. He knew that we were not supposed to
judge, and he was trying to teach the people of Corinth that judging and being unkind were
not spiritual and certainly would not make them godly in the eyes of the Lord. Wise teaching,
lots of wisdom -- all from someone who at the time was HOMELESS!
Moral of the story – or at least one of them: Don’t be a judge, and don’t judge someone just
because they find themselves in a tough situation. Don’t judge the homeless – You just never
know where your next wisdom lesson will come from!
Object Lesson One: To Talk or Not to Talk – THAT is the Question!
Before we go much further talking about homeless people, I need to make one thing really,
REALLY clear. I do NOT want to judge anybody who is homeless. They are God’s children,
just like me, just like you. HOWEVER – now pay attention and look me straight in the eye –
there is a REASON that a person is homeless. I don’t know what the reason is, and you don’t
know what the reason is, but there is a reason. And because of that unknown part, some
homeless people could be dangerous to anybody – adult, kid – it doesn’t matter. So as we go
along, I want you to HEAR me. DO NOT, DO NOT approach, talk to, or interact with a
homeless person without somebody, preferably an adult, who is older with you. That’s not to
say you can’t smile or wave, but don’t stop, don’t talk. I think this might seem like we’re
saying two different things – Let’s help the homeless, but don’t spend time with the homeless.
Well, I guess I am. But my first prayer is for EVERYBODY to be safe – you, them, us. We
are all God’s children. If you have an adult with you, then that’s fine. There are many other
things you can do; let’s look at some of them now.
Object Lesson Two: What’s to Eat?
Props: Leftover food items that would be found in a trash can, e.g. a few cold French fries, a
partially eaten hamburger, a half-eaten apple or banana that has turned brown, maybe a can of
tomato sauce that is mostly empty. Optional: a garbage can.
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(Keep food out of sight before asking the following question) Anyone hungry? Well good,
because I have some food here. (Pause, reveal food) Apparently this food isn’t exactly fresh.
Let’s have a look. (Go over each item, what it is, and what could possibly be wrong with it.
Take a bite now and then and comment on what you think about it.) Thank goodness most of
us don’t have to eat old food or food out of the garbage. But I’m sure that most of you know
that sometimes homeless people, and others, will rifle through garbage cans looking for
something to eat. How awful that must be – When you really think about it, just terrible. You
know, it’s just not a one-time thing. Some people in our own country live this way every day,
unless they can find somewhere that will serve them a meal. Have you heard of a food bank?
Many food banks collect food items that are then given to shelters and churches where
homeless people can get a meal. This is one way you can help the homeless. Next week
bring a can of food to donate to a food bank. Then all the food we collect will get donated to
a food bank. This way we can really help some good people are just having a hard time right
now get a healthy meal. Oooh. Enough of this old food – though cold pizza’s not so bad. . . .
Object Lesson Three: Down on Your Luck – or Not?
Props: School book/comic book; apple/beer can; pillow/party hat
So many times we talk about choices. Well, somebody today is going to have to make some
choices. Can I get a volunteer, please? (Pick someone.) Great! And thanks for volunteering.
All right, this is pretty simple. I will be giving you a choice of two items. I want you to pick
what you would like the most. (Go through each pair; do not coach the participant.) Let’s
look at the choices you made. (Go over any pros and cons of each choice.) The choices we
make in this world help to determine our future. Our choices will help to determine if we will
be all right and able to take care of ourselves and our family, or if we will be poor. Will we
have a home, or be homeless? Sometimes the choices we make in this world change
everything. If I become a heroin addict I think it is reasonable to assume the following might
happen. (Lead the faith community in a “fill-in-the-blank” response style.) I might lose my:
job. I might lose my: family. I might lose even you – because I certainly could not be here
talking to you and be high on anything, could I? Choices. There is one thing I wouldn’t lose,
though, even if I was addicted to drugs. Does anyone know what that is? (Allow for
answers.) God’s Love. Exactly. And do you know what the best thing about that is? There
are always two things in my life then. You know what they are – the two key words of Jesus:
Love, and hope. If I have God’s love, that means I have hope, hope that things can change in
my life for the better. Are all homeless people loved by God? Are all of you loved by God?
Of course the answer is yes, and that means – Do we have hope? The answer is YES.
Sermon Thoughts
People are homeless for a reason! Do not approach a homeless person alone, but have
sympathy and compassion for the homeless. Pray for people who are homeless. Get an adult
to help with the situation. WWJD/WWID (What Would Jesus Do about the homeless/What
Will I Do about the homeless?) Bring a can of food next time. Our society needs to do more
to help the homeless. That will be addressed in the future.
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Adults
Facts about Homelessness
More than 90% of women who come to the New Day Centers are victims of
trauma.
In 2008, 50.3% of all sheltered persons in Arizona were adults WITH children.
One third of all sheltered homeless persons are children or unaccompanied
youth.
In Maricopa County more than 5 percent of the unsheltered populations are
families with children.
Across the U.S. families experiencing homelessness represent the fastest
growing group of homeless people in the country.
The results of homelessness in children include depression, anxiety, low self-
esteem, behavioral problems, underachievement in school and/or truancy,
inadequate nutrition, physical ailments, and learning disabilities.
Fact Finder
Over 36 million people go to bed hungry on a regular basis.
One in ten kids in the United States live in hunger because they are poor.
In poor countries around the world, 6 million children die every year, mostly
from being hungry.
8,500 individuals experience homelessness on any given night in Maricopa Co.
66% of those individuals find a bed at a local shelter.
33% do not find shelter. They find themselves sleeping in areas not meant for
human habitations such as an alley, park, canal, etc.
You’ll notice that many of our facts today are about being hungry and homeless. People who
are poor many times do not have enough money to buy food and sometimes do not know the
right kind of food to buy. You’ll remember from studying health that we have choices about
what food we can eat. What do you think God thinks about a world where not everyone has
enough money to buy the proper food? (Allow for answers) I agree. I don’t think God likes
it very much. Can we do anything to end poverty? What do you think: (Allow for answers)
Those are good ideas. This is a very tough subject.
Participating
Organizations
Arizona Coalition
to End
Homelessness
Arizona
Department of
Economic
Security
Basic Mission
Central Arizona
Shelter Services
Community
Information &
Referral
Lodestar Day
Resource Center
Maricopa
Association of
Governments
Tempe
Community
Action Agency
Tumbleweed
Center for Youth
Development
UMOM New Day
Centers
Valley of the Sun
United Way
October 1, 2009 In closing Homelessness Awareness Week, we, a coalition of human service providers, invite you to participate in HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS DAY to be held Friday, October 30, 2009 at the State Capitol. We hope you will join us as an exhibitor to showcase your programs and help raise awareness regarding homelessness in our state. Our purpose in hosting the event is to educate the public and policymakers regarding the current status of homelessness in Arizona and efforts by various businesses, agencies, and non-profit organizations to help Arizonans and our communities regain stability. Set-up for Exhibits begins at 8:00 a.m. on the Capitol lawn. An awareness walk will be led from Herberger Theater beginning at 9:15 a.m. Walkers will arrive at the Capitol by 10:00 a.m. Speakers to begin at 10:15 a.m. include State Representative Chad Campbell, AZCEH Director Jackie Taylor, success story by Clarence Harrington and others. Exhibitor booths may be in place until tear down time at 11:30 a.m. We encourage you to take part in this event. It’s as easy as completing the Registration Form in this packet. To reserve a space, please fill out and return the attached Registration Form by Thursday, October 15, 2009. We will be able to make room for some free-standing exhibits if there is a need. You will need to bring a table and chairs. We hope that we can count on you to participate in this year’s HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS DAY program. Should you have any questions, please contact Amy Schwabenlender at (602) 631-4841 or [email protected] or Andrew Grove at (602) 631-4882 or [email protected]
ARIZONA’S HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS DAY Friday, October 30, 2009
Exhibitors’ Registration Form For more information, please contact Andrew Grove at (602)631-4882. FAX the completed form to (602) 776-3382. Name:
Organization/Community:
Address:
City: State: Zip:
Telephone:
Fax:
Email:
Please provide the names of individuals who will be staffing your display:
WHAT IS THE DRESS? While we would suggest business attire, especially if you are making appointments with legislators, please remember that the booths are on the lawn, so select your footwear accordingly! WHERE DO WE OFFLOAD OUR EXHIBIT MATERIAL? There is a “bump out” on 17th Avenue, just south of Adams Street (southbound). WHERE DO WE PARK? Wesley Bolin Plaza’s parking lot is at the northeast corner of 17th Avenue and Adams Street. Alternatively, there is a large parking lot on the west side of the Capitol Tower with access to the Capitol lawn through the lobby of the Tower. POWER? There is no electricity available.