We can change the story of chronic homelessness in Fredericksburg!

Why Micah instead of other worthy causes?

Al and I got involved in this issue in the 80's when our downtown churches began hosting homeless individuals and families. That effort grew into the Thurman Brisben Shelter and Hope House. However, neither of those shelters could accommodate the "street" or chronic homeless. So nine downtown churches joined together to form Micah Ecumenical Ministries to serve the chronic homeless population. Since we began in 2005, the volunteers and staff have tackled this societal problem with Christ's love, ingenuity, generous donors, and so much more.

Every year, our collaboration of local churches cares for more than 700 neighbors in need through Micah Ecumenical Ministries. Although we have witnessed a significant decrease in the "street homeless" population, Micah's support remains paramount in the lives of many of these individuals so that they do not return to homelessness. It also works to stay ahead of new trends, such as an increasing young adult and senior adult homeless whose circumstances put them at great risk of chronicity.

Not only do many of these folks lack homes, they survive on less than $2 a day. Please consider how you might take the "Love Your Neighbor " challenge on your own, as a family, with a friend, book club or whatever suits you!

Even if you aren't in a position to donate to Micah during this season of Thanksgiving, could you do me a favor whenever you see a person on the street who appears to be homeless? Remember that he or she started out life in total innocence. In almost all cases, something traumatic happened along the way and a lack of relationship caused them to drift into choices that resulted in homelessness. Also, please, make eye contact and greet them as you would anyone else. You have no idea how much of a gift that would be to them.

Any donation will go a long way to helping me meet my goal for Micah Ecumenical Ministries Inc