This is the 37th in a series of columns written by staff from The Lighthouse to help the community better understand people experiencing homelessness and those who support them. This column appears every other Monday.
Thanksgiving is a time when we count our blessings, giving thanks for what we have. For many individuals, this weekend is spent with family or friends. What does it look like for people who are experiencing homelessness?
Some people who are experiencing homelessness may connect with family this weekend. But for most, Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of what they do not have. It emphasizes the loneliness and isolation of the experience of homelessness. It reminds people they do not have a place to call home, an abundance of food, or most other of the material blessings many of us so often take for granted.
When facing homelessness and the numerous challenges that are part of it, it can be difficult to give thanks. For the people who face homelessness, circumstances such as the housing crisis, emotionally difficult situations, and the physical hardships that accompany homelessness can compound to create feelings of hopelessness. For staff and volunteers at The Lighthouse, witnessing these difficulties and numerous experiences of loss take a mental and emotional toll.
Yet in the face of dire situations, there is still hope. There is potential for every individual we serve, regardless of their previous experiences or circumstances, and we consistently celebrate and give thanks.
At The Lighthouse, we have a monthly celebration of what the participants, volunteers and staff are grateful for. During the month, our ‘Thankful and Grateful’ box stays on our front counter. Everyone is welcome to contribute by jotting down notes of what they are grateful for. Sometimes it’s a good meal made by The Lighthouse’s kitchen team, a place to stay, or a kind word. We are grateful when someone secures housing, accesses healthcare support, or receives a job offer. We celebrate with them.
Today, on Thanksgiving, it’s an opportunity to express our gratitude to you, our community. We are truly grateful for our community’s spirit of togetherness and support. People from all walks of life come together to care for one another during tough times. At The Lighthouse, we couldn’t provide assistance to those experiencing homelessness without the incredible support from our community. Thank you for your dedication and compassion.
Linda Goodall is the executive director at The Lighthouse and can be reached at [email protected].
Rosemary Petersen is the managing director at The Lighthouse and can be reached at [email protected].
