What to say to a homeless person
Christ in the City, a Catholic urban ministry offers some tips for how a Catholic can relate to a homeless person on the street, something which many of us find deeply uncomfortable:
1. Ask the person’s name,
remember it, and greet them if you see them again. The usual social etiquette of
meeting and greeting is often foreign for homeless people. Some of them report
not hearing their own name spoken for weeks on end.
2. Reach out and offer a handshake. Again, homeless people often never
receive this most basic act of physical connection with another person. This
simple gesture breaks a barrier and expresses that you recognize their dignity.
One moment of awkwardness for you can be the highlight of the day for him or
her.
3. Give something other than money. Many people are wary, and sometimes
for good reason, of giving money which may be spent on alcohol or drugs. But to
give food, such as a banana or a chocolate bar can make a difference. Personal
items such as socks, a toothbrush, or a beanie in winter are also very well
received.
Every day as I walk through Central Station I see the same characters. Not wanting to just throw money at what I saw, I just didn't know what to do. Thanks for sharing this information.
ReplyDeleteAfter a few days of making eye contact and exchanging pleasantries, I met Dave today. It was nice to introduce myself, shake his hand, and give home a few dollars for his morning coffee. He was really great full for me taking the time today.
ReplyDeleteThanks Jim.
Hey Dominic I'm really pleased you've been able to meet Dave in this way. I've met a local homeless guy called John these past couple of weeks too, and I'm glad that I read this piece too.
ReplyDelete