Homelessness: An Immersion Experience
By Barb Arland-Fye
The Catholic Messenger | July 13th, 2024
An Excerpt:
Immersion group participants toured the Fresh Start Center and Corner Closet Donation Center, where participants in all HHSI housing programs may obtain household items, furniture, clothing and personal hygiene products they need to establish and maintain their homes. You may donate new, gently used and clean items in working order to the Corner Closet at 525 Fillmore St. (Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m-3 p.m.)
Lunch at Café on Vine, just a couple of blocks from HHSI’s shelter, concluded the immersion experience. The café is one of many partners with whom HHSI collaborates. Waunita Sullivan, the café’s director, greeted the group with the same enthusiasm and warmth that she extends to her hungry guests in need of a free meal.
Providing an immersion experience that illustrates the journey of many HHSI participants helps the greater community understand “the challenges facing people who experience homelessness and the steps they need to take to meet their essential needs,” Graves said. “We invite people who have a voice, who can make change and advocate for individuals who may not be able to advocate for themselves.”