My intention was to keep this blog on the “lighter” side, and it usually will be. However, today was one of the harder days for me as a commissioner so far.
When I was exploring the idea of running for office, the one document I found online that made the difference was, “The Blueprint to End Homelessness in Washtenaw County.” I wanted to work in a county government that cared for all the residents, and this document proved that commitment!
I know plans are necessary, but I am not a big fan of writing a 50-60 page document. Mainly it is my lack of patience not a criticism of the process. In any group, I would be the doer not the planner. Both are equally important, and nothing will get done without both sides. Soon, the folks working on the blueprint will be coming to the Board of Commissioners for an update. It is important that any plan be dusted off periodically and examined. The homelessness population and needs are changing rapidly.
Here is the current problem in Washtenaw County and many other communities. We have shelters, but the need is too great. Shelters have incompatible rules for some people in need, and the prevention and treatment money for mental illness and substance abuse is more than insufficient.
That leaves some people sleeping under bridges, in tents and on the street. This winter, I had the honor of meeting young UofM students who are working with the 5-20 people living under the bridge at Ann Arbor-Saline Road and I-94. If anyone has lost hope in the younger generation, I have some people for you to meet that will inspire you.
Today, the “campers” were forced to move out from under the bridge by the Michigan State Police. Volunteers brought garbage bags and vehicles to help them with the move. How long will they be able to stay at the next location? It is hard to guess, but I am sure it will weigh on their minds every day. They had created a “home” for themselves, and I bet you didn’t even know they were there.
Many nights my husband and I will talk about how lucky we are to have a roof over our heads. Tonight I will be especially grateful.
kristinjudge
Homelessness is a big issue. I recommend coming some evening and serving dinner at Alpha House. I will be cooking and serving dinners in May and you are welcome to come and meet the families and staff. I think Alpha House is one of our greatest assets. The staff not only works with the folks who are staying at the shelter, but they also work with families to try to keep them in their homes. They do followup and try to make sure that the families who leave the shelter have support.
I feel the most compassion for the children. I know what it is like not to have new clothes, toys or even personal space. It is difficult to go to school, knowing that you have a secret. It’s hard for children to tell their classmates that they cannot invite them to their homes bercause they live in a shelter. Fortunately, the staff at Alpha House are sensitive to these issues and many caring folks volunteer to come and play with the children after dinner every night. Perhaps you might like to do that too!
Thanks Beverly! Volunteering at the Alpha House along with the Delonis Center is on my list. I have been visiting and volunteering at non-profits across the county since I became a commissioner. The cooperation between the local municipalities and non-profits is critical to the survival of the community. Many homeless people are being served and finding stable homes. Unfortunately, the job is never done, and not all people are being served by our current system. Thank you for doing your part.
Hello Kristin! Homelessness in our state is more prevalent of an issue than most people think. I share your sentiments that your husband and you are grateful for the roof over your heads.
As a parent that has experienced very good times and also very lean times I learned early the necessity to pass volunteerism to the homeless on to my children.
A bit cerimonious but yet with good impact, a couple years ago my daughter and I served Thanksgiving meals to the homeless in our capital city, instead of having our traditional thanksgiving in our pleasant home surrounded by family.
It was more emotional and more moving than I ever gave it credit for, to this day my daughter talks about the experience with fondness.
It is easy to write a check to organizations that use the majority of the donated money for administrative costs and advertising, but there is nothing more fulfilling than to volunteer at the “street level” and watch your labor directly enhance the life of another human.
The end result is a realization that there is very little that truly separates us all.