Unconventionally Housed

On Tuesday afternoons from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., our Deacons and other volunteers gather at Eidsath House and Preston Hall to offer showers, food, clean clothing and other supplies that may be donated, as well as listening ears, prayers and caring person to person contact with men and women in need. 

Some are so-called local “street people”; others may be simply passing through. All are experiencing a difficult time in their lives. Some are trying hard to overcome addiction or to manage mental illness.

From 10 to 20 people receive clean towels, razors, shaving cream, shampoo and other toiletries, as well as new underwear and socks when available and donated clean clothing, blankets and (when contributed) sleeping bags. A larger number, between 15 and 25, each receive a bag of canned goods, cereal, snacks and juice plus other food for the day. A meal, generally hot and always hearty, is shared at 2:30 p.m. by as many as 40. Coffee and tea are available. An updated list of social services on the Mendocino Coast is available upon request.

This long standing practice has been affirmed and adopted by the Session, as one of the ways we may show love and obedience to the Lord and respect for all his people.

 


Deacon’s cupboard,
Handing out food for the needy

Making lunches for the homeless

Donated clothes for the needy

Volunteer helping at the Shower
program for the homeless

Two volunteers helping the homeless