Know-How Exchange : Taglines/Names

Homeless Aid
Homeless Relief (Kits)

(Delivering/Improving) Hygiene for the Homeless

Just HELPING the HOMELESS.

You know, I hate to say this but...

Have you discussed sitting down with these folks and asking them what they really need? We may think it is obvious, but it's kind of arrogant of us to assume (myself included). I've participated in "Care Pack" campaigns many times. My feelings are mixed, at best.

We dont give money because we assume they will buy drugs and booze. So instead we give toiletries, bottled water, and canned tuna; then we become walking hygeine posters, reminding them to put on deodorant and brush their teeth before bed...er, street.

Depression, loneliness, substance abuse, and lack of respect and support will continue to plague the homeless...even with fresh toothpaste and deodorant. It's a warm, fuzzy bandaid. "Febreeze" for the street.

I'm not bashing your efforts, they are certainly generous, filled with good intent, and much more than what most people do. But if we are being 100% honest, who is getting the greater benefit here? The homeless, now armed with a fresh pack of handy wipes? Or us, walking around with warm fuzzy feelings and matching t-shirts to remind people of what we did?

You could take this opportunity to make a real connection with the homeless community. Give out the kits, but give them the t-shirts (or blankets - winter is coming, depending on where you live), and spend some time with them.

Write down what they say, what they want, what they need. Ask to take their picture and get their name so you can track them down again (be careful with that one!).

Take laminated 3x5 index card-sized lists of free clinics, shelters, food banks, DHS office, churches, vaccination centers, etc. Laminate them so they dont get ruined. Keep them small enough to fit most pockets.

Take bottled water, food, clothing. Try to get local barber shops to offer free hair cuts. Ask local truck stops to donate some shower time.

Ask them if they have family you can contact for them. Ask them if they have any wounds or injuries. Ask them if they are supposed to be taking medication. Sometimes, just the act of listening and offering to help is enough to spark a little hope.

Communicate with the local Police and Sherrif Departments. Most city sherrifs have community outreach and volunteer officers who may donate time to escort you and brief you on how to safely approach, how to read dangerous body language, etc.

Speak with the Fire Departments too. Firemen volunteer all the time. Check with your local National Reserve or a nearby military base to find out ways to solicit volunteers for security and support.

Compile the data and start a grassroots initiative to reach out to crowdsourcing communities. Talk with the Case Mangement departments at local hospitals. Speak with shelter directors to find out what you can do to help. Set up meetings with local government officials.

Ok. I'm off my soapbox now. Again, I appreciate what you are doing. And I know that extensive contact can be dangerous...and it can also reveal the heartbreaking reality that many will need nothing short of a miracle.

But what if there is one life you can change?

Just one.

Would it be worth the effort?

For all I know, you're already doing many of the actions I suggested. Just trying to help provide a different angle.

Here are some name ideas. Some are kinda cliché, some are not.

Random Packs of Kindness

LifePack Brigade

Care Back Packs

Care Back Pack Attack

Care Kit Club

Giving Guild

Got More? Give More.

Operation Back Pack

Survival Sacks

Human Heros

Operation Hero

Hero Kits

Feed the Need

I Actually Give A Kit ! (Ok, maybe not this one)

The Human Initiative

Community Care Club

Street Packs

Street Angels

Help the Homeless

Human Rescue

Thank you for trying to make a difference. People like you are rare indeed.

Good Luck and Stay Safe.

- Blaine Wilkerson