Exploring Homelessness In Miami

Homelessness and poverty are both defined as “a temporary condition that people fall into when they cannot afford to pay for a place to live when their current home is unsafe or unsuitable. Other factors, such as job loss, physical and mental disability, various hardships, including personal, and drug addiction that can accelerate people’s slide into poverty” as stated by The Suit Case Clinic. Although this issue can seem unreal to some people, the truth of the matter is that this is a reality that unfortunately is kept hidden in the dark shadows of humanity. The city of Miami is currently facing a serious increase in homelessness. Overall, the number of both sheltered and unsheltered homeless is up 2 percent, estimating about 4,235 people …show more content…
After witnessing this, I knew that something had to be done. Therefore, in the upcoming months of that year I worked with family, friends and organizations to formulate a plan that would take a step into assisting those in need. The Giving Box became a pilot project that focused on providing hygiene supplies and toiletries in a shoe box and then wrapping it with gift wrapping paper. Some of the utilities included bottled shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, bar soaps, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hair combs, washcloth, baby wipes, first aid kits and menstrual utilities for women. We also provided a blessing bag which contained ham and cheese sandwiches, chips, and fluids such as juice and water …show more content…
The reason for creating this project was to provide for those in need. I think its safe to say that I have been ministered by those who sleep on the street. I have learned from them through their personal stories and have gained greater appreciation to what I have. I once read in a book, that as human we were solely created to: Feed the Hungry, Heal the Sick, Hope for Peace, House the Homeless, Quench the Thirsty, teach them Well, and Save the Earth. This was inspired by a bible verse that has forever stayed in my heart, Matthew 25. It is time to lift up our voice and fight for those who can’t fight for themselves, its time to work for those who are in need and its time to spread love to the brokenhearted. That was the vision I had when I began this project. The Giving Box is has assisted over 250 homeless people both physically and spiritually. I can’t wait to see what is in stored these upcoming years. The Giving Box is truly a project that is aimed to shine a light onto those in