Key to a Fresh Start

Yesterday I received a text with this picture from David.

David is one of the guys that went on the homeless retreat back in February.

The text read "My new start!!!!"

There was no need for further explanation.

I knew what that meant, but probably not to the depth of emotion that it meant for David.

David had just met with Cassie with Hands Up Ministries.

HUM was giving him a place to stay.

Not just a bed and a roof over his head, but a chance at a fresh start.

I have a long list of folks who need a fresh start.

We need more houses like this one to provide a fresh start.

It's amazing what can get accomplished when the Body comes together.

David was an Urban Camper Thursday, but today he is living in a home full of opportunities.

Thank you to Cassie, JT and HUM for giving David a chance at a fresh start! 

Please be praying for David, Cassie, JT and the many friends that are Urban Campers here in our city!

Homeless to Home Owner!

Charles

This post is in honor of one of my best friends Charles.

A man who spent 33 years on the streets as a crack addict.

A man who is a convicted felon.

I just got the call and Charles has closed on his first house!

He is now a true home owner!

Only God can perform the life change that has happened in Charles' life.

There is no other way to explain it.

I love this man and am honored to call him one of my best friends!  

This is why I do what I do.

Life Change can only happen with God's help!

Urban Campers!

Last night I spoke with a few men that I had never met before.

I had seen them around the Alpha and Omega Bible Church, but had never been introduced.

Shelton introduced me to them and wanted me to share with them the idea of affordable housing.

To make an impact on the homeless situation then housing must come first.

As we were talking I shared the story of how just the word "homeless" brings up so many negative connotations in our society today!

They were in full agreement seeing as how they experience it every day!

As one of the guys walked off with backpack and sleeping bag in tow. He said "I like to be called an Urban Camper".

I think it's time to change the perspective and let's start with getting rid of the name Homeless!

Reunion!

Shelton

This past Sunday evening I received a call from Shelton.

He called to tell me that he had contacted all the guys who went on the retreat.

He then told me that they all said that they would come to the small group challenge on April 13th at Church!

The small group challenge is actually a cookout with a lot of great food and fun games taking place as well.

Shelton made it his job to contact everyone.

He then proceeded to ask me about how much snow did I get?

He said that it probably was a beautiful scene out at my house.

I found it encouraging to hear him talk in such a positive light from a man that is living on the streets.

I have a lot to learn from Shelton and others about life and a positive attitude.

I can not truly relate to life on the streets, since I have never been there.

One thing I do know is, that I can learn a lot if I just listen!

I can't wait for the gang to be together again!

It's about time for a reunion!

Is Richmond ready for a Dream Center?

Three questions: 

What is it?  Do we need one? Is Richmond ready?

The Dream Center started in LA by Matthew Barnett who is the author of the book "The Cause within You".

Watch the video on the home page and you will catch the vision!

The book was an inspiring story that influenced a lot of what I have been doing!

The Dream Center is the church that never sleeps, it's open 24/7!

Their slogan is "Find a Need and Fill It!" and "Find a Hurt and Heal It!"

The Dream Center covers it all. Spiritual needs, physical needs and so much more!

Richmond needs a Dream Center! 

The homeless services are scattered all through out the city and I mean scattered.

Richmond has no convenient day shelter, nor does it have sufficient enough beds for those in need.

A shelter and beds are not the answer. 

A place to go to build trust and relationships that's where change can happen!

The system is making it harder and more difficult for the homeless.

The homeless have no place to go to spend their days. They tend to hang out at restaurants or public libraries.

The other day David text-ed me and told me McDonald's had changed their policy and removed all the electric wall sockets so people wouldn't loiter around while charging their phones.

I can't say that I blame them.

A lot of folks hang out at the state or city libraries for lack of places to go.

I was also told that HillTop Promises closed down. They used to act like a day shelter for the homeless.

On Wed I dropped David off at the state library.

The need is there, but is Richmond ready?

Richmond hasn't done enough, but now may be the time for the Church to step up to the plate and make a real impact!

The opportunity is there, if we believe God!

I do! 

What about you?