We spent the afternoon in training (well, all except E5N1, who spent the afternoon watching movies!). Our congregation is one of more than a dozen in and around Portland embarking on a new program to help families experiencing homelessness in the city. One of the main features of the program is that, week by week, faith communities of all varieties turn spaces in their buildings into bedrooms to provide a safe and comfortable place for whole families to sleep and eat (many shelters separate men and boys over 12 from women and children). Whilst in the program, the families who, in Portland, are often new immigrants, will also be offered help to find permanent accommodation and employment opportunities.
After completing our official training, we had just about enough time left before dinner for a quick tent inspection ahead of our trip next week. We are looking forward to venturing north across the border again, but more of that later.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Anonymous comments allowed - Name (with optional URL) preferred.