This is the final installment in this series of discussions about homelessness, and now we must ask ourselves, "how can we help?" First and foremost, I must thank this congregation for your many donations and all of the support week after week you have already provided. As I have said many times, everything gets used but, what about outreach? What is our individual responsibility to those we see around us? Jesus said, 'to whom much is given much is required,' and I don't believe he meant that in terms of dollars. 

Please understand I am not necessarily advocating that you go out on the streets. If you feel led to work in that manner, then please join me on Sundays after church.  Feeding an addiction is always the most important thing to someone with a substance abuse problem, and food, shelter and clothing are always last on their list. We want to support those things that will benefit that person and not feed their addiction.  There is a very fine line between being helpful and enabling people. It is a very fuzzy line so, be careful. We want to help, but we don't want to make it possible for them to continue to use.   

So what should we do when we come across a panhandler or we are asked for help? The two most important concepts are: be friendly, and be prepared. Remember, the homeless are people too, and a warm greeting is just as important to them as it is to you. Most likely they are going to ask you for money, and there are many schools of thought on this subject. Some will tell you to give them cash, but I believe otherwise. I always ask why they need money, and usually the answer is to get something to eat or a cup of coffee. If I have time I'll walk with them to a local sandwich shop and buy them a sandwich.  

If you are interested in providing support to the homeless and have the opportunity I would invite you to carry socks and/or granola bars. If you want some granola bars to keep in your car, in your purse, or briefcase, Bridgetown Bakery has provided granola bars for the congregation to take. These granola bars are for the needy and we ask that you please honor that mission.  That said, if there is a need you can fill then, please, take as many as you like. There is no limit and God has provided these in abundance.