What do you do when you see someone holding up a sign, "Will Work for Food"? Do you roll down your window and give them money? Do you pretend you didn't see them?

Nobody likes to be confronted by the homeless - their needs often seem too overwhelming - but we all want to treat them fairly and justly. Here are some simple guidelines to equip you to truly help the homeless people you meet:

1. Never give cash to a homeless person

Too often, well intended gifts are converted to drugs or alcohol - even when the "hard luck" stories they tell are true. If the person is hungry, buy them a sandwich and a beverage. 

2. Talk to the person with respect

Taking time to talk to a homeless person in a friendly, respectful manner can give them a wonderful sense of civility and dignity. And besides being just neighborly, it gives the person a weapon to fight the isolation, depression and paranoia that many homeless people face.

3. Recognize that homeless people (and their problems) are not all the same

The homeless are as diverse as the colors of a rainbow. The person you meet may be a battered women, an addicted veteran, someone who is lacking job skills...the list goes on.

4. Share God's love whenever you can

If Jesus were walking the earth today, He would certainly spend time with the homeless. He would speak with them, heal them, and help them. Today, Jesus chooses to work through those who believe and follow Him.

5. Pray for the homeless

Exposure to the elements, dirt, occasional violence, and lack of purpose all drain years from a person's life. God can use your prayers and the brutality and the futility of life of the street to bring many of the broken to Himself.

6. Take precautions for your own safety

Some living on the streets are criminals and fugitives running from the law. Always be prudent while talking with street people. Stay in areas where other people can see you. Don't take unnecessary chances.

7. Encourage the homeless to get help through Central Union Mission

Every day The Mission strives to demonstrate Christ's love and compassion by offering essential physical, emotional, and spiritual services to people in need. Through a 24-hour operation run by volunteers, staff, and program-graduates, The Mission provides a variety of services that include: Guest services for men, food, clothing and household goods distribution and other community services. Additionally, The Mission's Spiritual Transformation Program gives dedicated students the tools they need to overcome addictions and other life-controlling issues.

8. Support Central Union Mission

The Mission is supported by caring individuals, churches, businesses, and civic groups who see the value of sharing their resources with the less fortunate. GIVE NOW

Compassion Card

Click here to download and print Compassion Cards to give to the people you meet that are in need.