I kept the shoes and stuff for Ben in the car-- just in case. Today we were near where he lives and I decided to stop and see if he was around. He was! I called out to him from across the street and he met us half way. Ben finally got his shoes, a rain slicker, a Christmas card, and a blanket. Adam got to meet him too. He was very pleasant and very appreciative-- just like I remember. Turns out he gets a monthly check that he picks up at the nearby post office and would love to get off the streets. But no men's shelter for him-- he admits to feeling caged in surroundings like those. So I promised to look for either a long stay motel room or a room for rent in the area. He was ecstatic that someone would take the time to look into something like this for him.
Thanks for encouraging me not to give up on Ben!
14 inspiring thoughts:
God bless you for not letting fear and discomfort get in the way of helping another of His children! Especially after your less than pleasant experience with the other man.
Christine: this story has touched my heart from the time I started reading. I cried and asked myself and God what my priorities are. There are so many homeless people in this area of town. We are praying how God wants our family to help these people. We know they need Jesus first and foremost, but meeting a physical need always opens the door. The kids are excited that one day they could help, too.
You are inspiring and truly and angel for Ben!
Hi If you call your county 's department of human services I am sure they have programs for the homeless. Maybe if you work with the dept. of human service as a team you might be able to get Ben more long term services that might be able to address his under lying problems that maybe causing his homeless . He seems to trust you.The county department of human services has the money to provide long term services. Also your community may have churches or non profits that provide services to the homeless which may offer services to the homeless that do not have a shelter atmosphere .May God continue to Bless your family as you aid Ben with his journey of ending his homelessness. Pat
Bless you and your family.....YOU have inspired me to do good for others as well...
Hugs
Christine you are the best!!!!!
So glad that you keep making these connections with Ben. I am going to pray that you find a room for him!
Yes, please keep us updated. I've had a similar experience with a homeless man where I live. When I tried to find him a low income apartment or motel room, no one would take him because he didn't have a credit card and he'd lost his social security card and birth cert. Funny thing is, I was willing to pay for the rent until he got on his feet but since I wasn't occupying the room, they wouldn't do it. Crazy! I did help him get a copy of his birth cert but I haven't seen him in a while to help him get his social security card. Hopefully you'll have more luck finding Ben a place.
Awesome, Awesome, AWESOME!!!!! That is the BEST news! You have an amazing heart and it rubs off on others! xo ;)
Be careful- I have a relative who is homeless. We have all tried to help him. He is the most charming person- everyone always ask about him. Why is he homeless and unable to have a stable life? Drugs. I will help him out but I don't invite him into my home. Addiction is more powerful than love.
That's awesome! It's amazing to hear what one person (or family) can do in the life of another if they are only willing! Thanks for sharing and for doing what you do.
Christine -
There is a book that I just read that is very inspirational and relates to your story. The book is called Same Kind of Different as Me. It is the true story of a friendship that develops between a wealthy art dealer and a homeless person. I would highly recommend it - I have read many passages to my children, because the wisdom is so wonderful. Blessings,
Debbie
Good! I'd been wondering what was happening with Ben! Thanks for updating! Keep on reaching out prayerfully.
Thanks for updating on Ben! My family and I have been praying for him!! His story has touched our hearts.
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