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You’re stopped at the last traffic light between your office and home. You’re tired and ready to relax and have a nice, quiet dinner at home. And then you see him. In the median. A worn-looking man in a reflective vest with defeat on his face, desperation in his eyes, and a wrenching plea scrawled on a piece of dirty cardboard. The same questions go through your mind that run through it every time you are caught at this light: How did he get here? Should I give him money? Will he just spend it on drugs or alcohol? I can’t just help everyone, can I? Is someone else helping him? What should I do?
In Durham County alone, there are 25,000 people living in poverty—14% of our population. Not all 25,000 of them are living in make-shift homes in the woods or begging for money on street corners, but many are and the rest could be on their way there. In stark contrast, Durham is also a thriving city with the highest median income in North Carolina . We are graced with prestigious universities, and boast of the highest concentration of PhD’s in the world. We have what we need to win the fight against homelessness in our own back yard.
What should you do, you asked? It’s simple. Join the battle.
The Durham Rescue Mission is partnering with the Church of the Good Shepherd, Durham Cares, and other community organizations that are fighting homelessness. Our first objective is to help local college students from Duke, NCCU, and UNC understand the reality of homelessness. The result will be the start of a culture of service between area college campuses and the greater Durham Community.
On Friday night, April 3rd, on the Durham Rescue Mission’s campus at 1205 E. Main Street and 507 E. Knox Street , we’ll host “my night in a box.” Student volunteers will experience just a few of the many aspects of homelessness . . . for just one night. In a safe, secure environment, they will scavenge for necessities and brave the elements. No doubt, they will wake up tired and uncomfortable on April 4th, but with a memory that will last a lifetime. They’ll be our front line, our catalyst, to lead the outreach effort between the community and our homeless population. The students will raise funds from friends and family as they raise awareness of homelessness in Durham .
So what can you do?
Make a commitment to join the fight.
Tell others.
Speak out.
Stop by the night of April 3rd and see for yourself the courage and commitment of these students.
If you can, bring a clean, new or “gently used” blanket. A blanket is a basic need of a homeless person. It is warmth in the cold. Protection from the hard ground. And a reminder that someone cares. It’s not much to you, buts it will mean a lot to a man, woman, or child without a warm home and a soft bed. We’ll make sure your simple gift gets into the hands of someone who needs it.
This Saturday on Robby’s Hobbies the Durham Rescue Mission is going to be on to share with one about the ministry My Night in a Box.
for more information email shawn.saunders@durhamrescuemission.com or check out our website at www.durhamrescuemission.org/mynight