HOW TO REALLY HELP THE HOMELESS

1.  Never give a homeless person cash.
If the person is hungry you may buy them something to eat.  Too often, well
intentioned gifts are converted into drugs or alcoholÑeven when the "hard luck"
stories they tell are true.  We must be careful to avoid feeding their
addictions by unwise gifts which perhaps ease our minds and for which we are
heartily thanked.

2.  Talk to the person with respect.
Taking time to talk in friendly manner helps the homeless avoid being driven
into potentially dangerous isolation, depression, or paranoia.

3.  Take precautions for your own safety.
Some living on streets are criminals and fugitives running from the law.
Always be prudent while taking with street people.  Stay in areas where other
people can see you.  Don't take unnecessary chances.

4.  Recognize that all homeless and their "problems" are not the same.
The homeless are as diverse as the colors of the rainbow, from battered wives
to con artist -- they are very different from one another.

5.  Encourage the homeless to get help in an Emergency Shelter and
Recovery Program that deals with many of the root causes of homelessness.
The Richmond Rescue Mission offers a wide range of emergency relief and a
15-month residential recovery program with a high success rate.  Offer help
by offering one of our meal tickets, explaining that they can have a meal and
a bed at the Mission and the genuine opportunity to get the help that they
really need.  You may photocopy this ticket.  There is no charge to you or the
person presenting the ticket to us for help.

At the Richmond Rescue Mission beds are provided on a first come, first
serve basis.  Our doors open a 4:30 p.m.  for registry for beds for men, and
12:00 noon for women and children.  Meals are always served to all who
come to chapel service at 7:30 p.m.  nightly.
Free medical referrals, clean clothing, and showers are also available every
day.  If you have any questions, call (510) 215-4868 for Men's Division or
(510) 215-4869 for Ladies' and Family Shelter.  These days you never know
when you will be able to help someone on the street.