The Winter Shelter is Open
“It was a dark and stormy night…” Author Snoopy (of Peanuts fame) continually starts his great novel with these words. But on a dark and stormy night this past Tuesday, in Bellevue, WA, Congregations for the Homeless opened its Eastside Winter Shelter for homeless men. The rain came in sheets but men came walking from the four directions to find a hot meal, and place to sleep. Once again CFH is providing space for up to 80 men.
This is my sixth year bringing some encouragement, prayer, and fellowship with men in this low barrier shelter. Fist bumps, hugs, and high fives were the order of the day as I reconnected with some of the same men from last year who are back again. While it’s not Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, it’s their home and environment.
Unless you get to know these men it’s hard to understand homelessness and the situations these men are in. Since the close of the shelter last April I know of several men who are in much better situations and haven’t returned. Those that are back are not without hope but many are without direction.
It’s not appropriate to name names. One man is there with his dog, Bud. Another is in a wheel chair struggling with birth defects. Two men have returned from jail ready for a new life. His wife is in a shelter in Kirkland, and Bill, not his real name, is planning to find a job and place for them to live. Another is an excellent programmer but is putting his life together after addictions took over.
Tonight I was asked to pray for a life turnaround, to talk, to write a letter to the judge, and to have coffee soon to discuss a personal issue. Tuesday I went to Kirkland to check on Bill’s wife — she was safely in.
CFH is fortunate to have Danette as the manager of the shelter. Direct, organized and compassionate, she runs a tight ship in a difficult environment. She and her staff and volunteers are a real blessing.
I would be very thankful to have some men or couples, to come along side me in chatting and praying with these men. Anybody up for a life changing encounter? How about a gift to buy milk and pastry for breakfast or some night preparing food and serving?
Dinner is served
