Despite the fact that we live in a country rich in resources, homelessness is a very real and growing problem. In almost every city and town the homeless are huddled in doorways, keeping warm on street grates, or sleeping in makeshift cardboard dwellings. You can see their outstretched hands begging for food, for money, and for love. Many of them will spend most of their lives on the street; some will even die there, alone, unwanted, unknown.

Why are they on the street? Some may have escaped abusive situations; some may be battling addiction to drugs, alcohol, or even gambling; some may be suffering from mental illness; and some may be unable to cope any longer with the demands of life. For these and other reasons, they have become the disenfranchised of our society.

But they are not alone. The Salvation Army knows who they are and where they are. We make it our business to know and care for them. We visit them regularly on the street, offering hot soup, sandwiches and coffee. We supply clothing, blankets and an invitation to one of our many shelters for the homeless. Most important, we offer friendship and the Good News that God cares for them and loves them.