Solutions to homelessness must be grounded in individual rights, a pursuit of equity, and acknowledgment of our biases; all voices are necessary. 

Such solutions require a diversity of demographics, culture, opinion and experience.  Further, we must embrace the intrinsic value of each person regardless of history, experience or circumstance.
Mutual accountability is needed as models of intervention are designed.  Not every new approach may work out as planned, but taking risks in order to end homelessness is part of the process of improving outcomes even if some ideas fail.

People need a place to live and food to eat before they can attend to other important needs such as finding a job, budgeting their money and accessing health care needs including substance abuse.
Providing access to housing generally results in cost savings for communities since housed people are less likely to use emergency services including hospitals, jails, and emergency shelters than those who are homeless.

Homelessness falls disproportionately on communities of color.  For example, the population of the City of St. Louis is roughly 50% Black, while over 73% of the unhoused population is Black.

As Christians, how can we be mindful of the needs of our fellow citizens regarding the issue of homelessness?  How can we engage our leaders and work with them to find solutions?

Source:  St. Louis Continuum of Care, House Everyone STL, Alliance to End Homelessness.
Submitted by Sharon Baron, member of the MM Peace and Justice Ministry
Questions? 314-892-2331