1.  Never give a homeless person cash.

If the person is hungry, you can buy him/her something to eat or you can give them gift certificates to fast food places. Well intentioned gifts are often turned into drugs or alcohol--even when the “hard luck” stories are true. We must be careful to avoid feeding addictions by unwise gifts which perhaps ease our feelings of guilt.

2.  Talk to the person with respect.

Taking time to talk in a friendly manner helps the homeless avoid being driven into potentially dangerous isolation, depression, or paranoia.

3.  Take precautions for your own safety.

Some living on the streets are criminals and fugitives running from the law. Always be prudent while talking with street people. Stay in areas where other people can see you. Don’t take unnecessary chances.

4.  Recognize that all homeless and their "problems" are not the same.

The homeless are as diverse as the colors of the rainbow; from battered wives to con artists ... they are very different from one another.

5.  Share God's love whenever you can.

If Jesus were walking the Earth today, He would doubtless spend time with the homeless. He would speak with them, heal them, and help them. Today, Jesus chooses to work through those who believe and follow Him.

6.  Pray for the homeless.

Some on the streets are like thirsty sponges looking for love, forgiveness, and compassion. Yet, even those who seem stone cold or apparently happy living on the streets are in great need. Exposure to the elements, disease, dirt, and occasional violence all sap years off a person’s life in a very short time! God can use your prayers and the brutality of the streets to bring many of the broken to Himself.

7.  Encourage the homeless to get in an Emergency Shelter and Recovery program which deals with many of the root causes of homelessness.

The Redwood Gospel Mission offers a wide range of emergency relief and a recovery program. Offer help by (1) talking to the person and letting them see you care, then (2) offer one of our Real Change Certificates* to invite them to have a meal (and a bed) at the Mission and the genuine opportunity to get the help they really need.

* Real Change Certificates (Download pdf for your printer) COLOR or Black&White