Al's Outreach Outtakes

Last week I told you about an organization called Family Promise ( familypromise.org) and how they work with churches and others all over the country helping address homelessness. The local Beaverton chapter ( familypromiseofbeaverton.org) has their day center at Sunset Presbyterian and work with a total of thirteen churches in the Beaverton area to provide a safe place to sleep for three to four families at a time. The article last week was about helping one of the host sites and nearby church, St. Andrew Lutheran, with this much needed ministry. I hope those of you who are able contacted them as many families are in need. Here are a couple of examples.
 
Over the last year or so a young mom of five has come into our Food Closet for food. While they have struggled with homelessness over the years, her husband finally got a good job and life was getting on track. They were able to get out of the shelters and into a house. All was well until a major life event occurred and, as a result, he lost his job. For the last two years they have been living in their car again. Looking at her and the kids, you would never know.
 
Last week a family of five, including three young kids, stopped by the Food Closet after we were already closed. I recognized them, having helped them just a few months ago. They were hungry and, frankly, needed a shower. They too have been living in their car for months. As I was getting them food I contacted the Beaverton School District HELP Center. They were open and could help get the kids enrolled into school; maybe get them some clothes and school supplies; help them get their laundry done and yes, provide vouchers so they could take a shower. Dad looked at me and asked “If I go here I can take a shower today?” “Yes, today” “You have no idea what that means for us…”
 
So what do both of these families have in common besides homelessness? Both have been referred to the Beaverton Family Promise program. If accepted, they would likely end up at St. Andrew Lutheran. There’s a Family Promise Volunteer Training coming up on Saturday, September 21 ^st, from 12:00-2:00pm at Cedar Mill Bible Church (12208 NW Cornell Road). If you volunteer to help St. Andrew's, you will likely be helping make all of their lives better.