I don't talk about it much, but I was homeless twice in a two year span in my life. I slept on the El. Bathed in Dunkin Donuts bathrooms. So much of it because I didn't know who to talk to, or where to go.
Aaron Couch of PhillyIMC is putting out a call to get involved and promote this event. I'd like to ask you to do the same.
Young Involved Philadelphia, PhillyIMC, and homeless advocates from across the city plan to hold a forum November 21st at the Arch Street United Methodist Church (55 North Broad Street) at 7PM. Speakers will include those on the front lines of this crisis including representatives from service providers, civic associations, and the City.
Philadelphia is often cited as a national model, yet street homelessness has risen dramatically here in the last five years.
This summer's homeless street census was the highest since 1997. The previous winter's street census was the highest in recorded history.
The irony is that this takes place, while Philadelphia is experiencing a Center City renaissance and an unprecedented condominium boom.
More information here.
Spread the word - please. Homelessness can effect ANYONE. Participating blogs will be linked here.
Blogs mentioning the forum:
Let's Talk
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in this discussion. I was homeless 16 years ago and now work for the Philadelphia Committee to End Homelessness.
Homelessness is a problem we see everyday but rarely talk about in a public way. I often tell people, Homelessness...it's not what you think. This is an opportunity to talk about the myths, causes and what's being done to ensure that no human being has to call the street their home.
Roosevelt Darby, Jr.
Deputy Director
PCEH
Nice Job Darby
It was good to hear that a once homeless person is giving back. I'm currently homeless and this gives me a chill to think one day I could possibly be helping out other homeless people.
http://turningitover.blogspot.com
Thanks
I appreciate your call for participation and mobilization. When our family residence collapsed in West Philadelphia 2 years ago, we could not get print, radio or tv interested in focusing on the 29 families that became homeless again, from a homeless shelter! I look forward to the forum next week.
Bia Vieira, Lutheran Settlement House
Post new comment