Homeless Ministries

Human needs of many kinds abound in communities across North America. Homelessness is one of the more perplexing social problems. Long a problem in larger cities, homelessness has become more evident in towns and villages. To minister to the needs of homeless men, women, and families offers a huge opportunity to make a difference in the life of another person through meeting needs and sharing Christ.

Homelessness is not a new problem. Adam and Eve became the first homeless people as they were evicted from the Garden of Eden. Remember that God’s chosen people wandered for 40 years in the wilderness. Jesus’ own words in Matthew 8:20 remind us that “foxes have holes and birds have nests” but our Savior did not have an earthly home. Throughout scripture we are reminded to care for the needs of the poor. In fact, the writer of Hebrews 13:2 suggests that receiving strangers is like “entertaining angels.” The church, motivated by genuine love, is the natural body to address homelessness.

The following ministry suggestions may help you think about meeting needs of homeless people in your community. There are countless ways to reach out. These ideas are not exhaustive but illustrative. Many variations of these ideas exist based upon the realities of your community, local culture, and resources. As you meet the considerable needs of homeless people in your community, never forget their need for Christ!

·         Naked and you clothed me. Clothing is a major concern for homeless people. This is true due to the lack of two very basic things- a place to keep clothing and a way to wash clothing. Without clean, fresh, presentable clothing life’s challenges begin mounting up quickly. Can your church offer ways to assist homeless people with hygiene challenges?

·         For I was hungry… Feeding a hungry person brings immediate gratification to both the server and the one being served. Nutrition is a daily quest for homeless people. To be fed in the house of God is significant. Here a homeless person will see Christ’s love in action. It is in this setting that we must tell hungry people that Jesus is the Bread of Life. In what way can you touch a hunger need through your church?

·         Sick and you visited me… Many churches effectively address the health concerns of homeless people. Most churches have healthcare professionals who are willing to volunteer in this kind of outreach. Local health departments may help by providing supplies. This ministry can begin with the interest of one person, a cadre of volunteers, and space enough for health screenings.

·         Stranger and you took me in…  Sheltering may be the most difficult ministry to begin and maintain; however, shelter can be provided in many forms. Adequate space is needed, bedding items, and a number of reliable volunteers. Churches that begin a sheltering ministry will be rewarded as they see God at work in the lives of those they assist.

·         In prison and you came to me… Support ministries are designed to address very specific needs among homeless people. Support groups for example revolve around people seeking to resolve mutual problems or personal issues. Addictions, literacy, and job skills are prevalent among homeless people. How can you reach out to the needs of homeless people in your community?

For direct assistance in identifying and developing specific ministries in your community through your church or for more information about ministries related to homelessness, you may submit an inquiry through this form OR you may contact:

Dr. Tobey Pitman, National Ministry-Evangelism Missionary, at tpitman@namb.net or 504 782-6122.