A note from our Executive Director
As Executive Director of the Torres Shelter I read a lot about homelessness, but reading this definition felt like being punched in my stomach: Homelessness is a profound disconnectedness from self, family and community.
To be disconnected from one's community is unfortunate but common as we find many reasons to relocate throughout life. Since divorce and abuse are sadly commonplace as well, being disconnected from family is too. But to be disconnected from selfnow that is tragic! Imagine the anguish and insecurity of not being able to count on the basic support of self. The causes for this are dark and frightening but on the rise as well. They include alcohol & substance abuse, and mental health issues such as post traumatic stress disorder which is a consequence of war and traumatic experiences here at home as well.
Assisting people to reconnect to self, family and community is complicated and time consuming. But like all important work, it can be accomplished by taking many small steps. I think the first step is to recognize that homelessness is everyone's problem. It's not just the government's problem. (Theyve made this clear by shrinking grant dollars.) And it's certainly not the sole reponsibility of faith communities! Like the miners' canary homelessness alerts us to silent but deadly danger. Since homelessness appears to be increasing, all ethical and moral citizens should be concerned enough to offer their time and especially their financial resources to support the only emergency shelter in our county.
We are not faith-based, but supported by many faith communities, as well as a broad spectrum of individuals, businesses, clubs, service groups and grants. With more people becoming homeless daily and expenses increasing too, we need more financial assistance. Will you help?
Sincerely,
Corla Bertrand