Belonging

I am currently serving at the House of Charity in Spokane, Washington. The House of Charity is a homeless shelter that serves the needs of the homeless in Spokane. During the day we serve both men and women, and in the evenings we have a sleeping program for 108 men. We try to provide a welcoming place where all can rest and get food, clothing, and a sense of peace from the stresses of being homeless.
A patron was once speaking to me about being homeless, and he differentiated between being "homeless" and being "houseless." He described being "homeless" as not having a place to belong, not having a place where one feels safe or welcome. In contrast, "houseless" meant literally being without a house. He said that a majority of those in the shelter fell into the second category of being "houseless." This conversation happened relatively early in the year, and it has stuck with me ever since.
It's true meaning became apparent to me during the Holiday season. I served at the shelter on Christmas Eve, Christmas day, and New Years' Eve. I was not thrilled about having to work on Holidays, butI remembered the patron's words. The House of Charity provides a place of belonging, of welcoming. We were open on the Holidays for those who had no where else to go. We were there for those who were "houseless" so that they would not be "homeless."
Working with the homeless population often leaves me feeling like I am not accomplishing much of anything. I am not creating new housing opportunities or helping individuals to get off of drugs or alcohol. I am however being present to those who need someone to listen, someone to offer a hand of helping. The House of Charity meets people where there are currently, and works with individuals from there. We do not force a certain agenda or certain practices. If someone wants help we most certainly offer it. Otherwise, we are there if people want us to help. The House of Charity offers a place of belonging and welcoming to those who are shunned or cast aside. It is a reminder to me that presence is itself a great service. Working towards a better future can take short steps.