Did you know that our homeless friends seem to have completely avoided catching Covid-19? It so happens that they have strong immune systems. Rather than being fearful of contracting a virus, whatever strain is coming out this week, next week or next month, I choose alternatives. Those alternatives consist of a healthy lifestyle building up my immune system, through as much good nutrient dense, organic, raw, fresh food as possible.

Think of the tiny house village as the long-term, permanent solution we have envisioned. However, there is value in transitional housing to move our friends from homelessness to permanent housing. Square One Villages (featured in our last post) began with a transitional housing facility. These transitional spaces were very small, smaller than a tiny house. They are designed for each person to have a secure, personal space in which to sleep and store property. These tiny spaces are combined with common areas that the residents in the community can use for community.

Veterans Community Project is implementing a tiny house program to combat homelessness in the veteran community. While VCP’s focus is narrower than ours in that they work exclusively with veterans, their program bears resemblance to our long-term plan for a community of tiny houses in which we plan to house our homeless friends.

The National Alliance to End Homelessness released a report in 2020 designed to give an overview of the state of homelessness in the United Stated. While Covid-19 has had a profound effect on the homeless population, an effect that has yet to be fully quantified, the data from the 2020 report gives us an understanding of the needs affecting our homeless friends.

The reality is that we definitely have common life experiences. I understand the lack of bonding that occurs in the life of the addicted brain. Addiction controls us in such a way that we are all about ourselves, what we want, what we need, and how we are going to get it. In my opinion, this mindset is not something that can be corrected apart from divine intervention. For myself it drives me to visit my friends on the streets and who live in the woods, to take them food and supplies. God saved me from myself and the very least I can do is share His love with others.

Recently, I viewed the the movie, Nomadland. It was somber, relatable must see. One quote that is especially true for us and for our houseless friends: "There are no final goodbyes, just I'll see you down the road. And I do, I see them down the road." Fern could be any of us. Her life dramatically changed when she lost her husband. So, she chose to live the life of a Nomad.

Last week some friends of Hope Farm were on vacation in Florida. While there, they observed a homeless man who was clearly in need of some help. They contacted me to ask questions about how to help him. Providing assistance to a person in need, especially someone you don’t know in a town with which you are unfamiliar provides a unique set of challenges and opportunities. We thought it would be a great opportunity to share practical thoughts and ideas about homeless care with our readers.

February in Northeast Ohio is typically long, dark and very difficult for a wide range of people living under the bitter cold. Our homeless friends were especially affected this year with the bitter cold temperatures mid month. Sadly, a few of our friends passed on this winter. Here’s a quick update for you as you pray and support. Thank you for supporting homeless ministry in Akron and beyond

Cold weather is particularly dangerous for the homeless population in Akron, OH. Shelters are a big help this time of year, but space is always limited. With economic crises and decreased employment, this could be a particularly busy year for shelters. So, what can you do to help? We show you how in this article. Thanks again for all of your support! We couldn’t do this work without you!