Chris' Solidarity Sleep Out

I'm participating in the sleep out as a small act of solidarity to raise money for Friend's Place, the only nonreligious, year-round emergency shelter for homeless adults in the region, run as a part of Shalom. I call it a small act because this one night in the safe, predetermined space of a church does not equal the many challenges people without housing face every single day  and night. We will not have to worry about the police waking us and possibly getting into trouble or being relocated for simply sleeping or existing, the likelihood of which is heightened in the midst of gentrification. Lastly, several of us will have the privilege of returning to the comfort of our homes when the night is over. That being said, all are welcome to sleep in this area for the night.

I deeply care about the homeless community, as I know what it's like to lose housing and not have a stable place to go. It's a community I have worked with and engaged with for much of my life. I hope for Friend's Place to thrive. I believe in it, and I've seen how it helps many people every single day. Whether it's for the night, or staying long term to have the stability to work on attaining employment and housing. Combined with Shalom's housing and employment assistance, Friend's Place has become one of the most successful shelters in Indiana.

I long for the day when everybody has the right to housing and those who don't have housing are treated as equals without harassment or criticism from authority, business, or their community.  I long for compassion and understanding.

Your contribution will help Friend's Place continue. Thank you so much for anything you can give and for supporting this shelter.