Engage the Poor

What I'm doing

I walk to work in Downtown DC every day from the Metro. I see homeless people around me. I've been convicted lately that I don't give them much thought. I just walk by hurriedly, on my way to work or home. I give myself the requisite mental excuse, "oh, they'll just misuse the money", but then do nothing.

I need to remember that the homeless are people. In many cases, but by God's providential grace, our circumstances could be reversed. I need to ask myself, "how would I want to be treated, if I were homeless?" I also need to realize that I can't do everything, so I'd like to partner with others that can help these people further. Central Union Mission is a faith-based organization that does excellent work helping the homeless here in DC. Hence, this fundraiser.

So, here's what I'm going to try to do this week for the homeless folks around me:

• Go to Starbucks and get him/her a sandwich (or similar, basic way)
• Say "hi", offer the sandwich, get the person's name, and get to know them
• Pray and seek for an opportunity to speak of the hope that I have in Jesus
• Encourage them to go to Central Union Mission (see below)

What you can do

Would you join me in this endeavor? Here's what you can do:

• Give! My company (Razoo) will match up to $250 in your gifts through 5/27
• Commit to trying to do the same - meet the homeless around you and share you story
• Tell friends about this, and get them to do the same

About Central Union Mission - A great cause bringing hope to DC

Learn more about Central Union Mission (http://www.missiondc.org/about/). They do great work here in DC. They are a faith-based nonprofit organization here in DC which does, among other things:

• Regular, faithful gospel teaching, offering hope through Jesus Christ
• An 18-month residential rehabilitation program (80% success rate!)
• A clothing and furniture distribution center
• A free meals program
• Literacy training, GED, and ESOL classes
• A 220-acre retreat center and camp for underprivileged children

If you'd like to refer someone to Central Union Mission, you can see: http://www.missiondb.org/contact-us. Their main facility address is 1350 R Street NW, Washington, DC, 20009. You can also call them at 202-MISSION

Have fun!