The reasons for homelessness are as varied as the people experiencing it – those fleeing abuse, the mentally ill, individuals struggling with addiction issues, the newly released from prison, the elderly who are unable to live and cope alone. The list is endless.
The Mary Magdalen House on Republic Street in downtown Cincinnati is working to combat homelessness in our area, no matter the cause. “Mary Magdalen House serves all these people without hesitation or reservations of any manner or discrimination. Our mission is to serve the poor regardless of circumstance,” their Web site states.
The agency’s mission statement acknowledges the dignity of all: “We refresh and renew our guests in body and spirit from the hardships of living on the streets, in order to maintain and help restore the human dignity of all those we serve. Each of our guests leaves feeling better, knowing that ‘it is truly good for me to have been here.’”
I hadn’t hosted a coat and shoe drive in years but felt compelled to this year. Thanks to the generosity of friends and neighbors, I collected many coats, hoodies, and shoes. Folded neatly in bags and bins, I made the drive to the Mary Magdalen House to drop them off.
A cheerful volunteer took my coats and shoes. I noted the items they need most: men’s thermal underwear, sizes large, XL, 2XL; men’s winter gloves, and men’s winter coats. I hope those coats help to keep many warm tonight. But somehow it doesn’t feel like enough.
I am a realtor by trade. I help people buy and sell houses. But what about those who have no home? I’ve volunteered to build houses with Habitat for Humanity, served people in need on medical missions to Belize, and, yes, taken coats and shoes to a homeless shelter. I don’t have the perfect answer but I believe the most important thing is to share as you can. I encourage each of us to share time, share talents, share blessings and share the warmth where and when you can. Let’s collectively ask ourselves what we can do to make things better for the underserved and vulnerable. Even if it’s just one thing. It may seem like a small thing, but it may make someone’s life better.
As always, I’m here to answer any questions you might have about buying or selling a home. Call me at 513.702.3419 or email [email protected].
To learn more about the Mary Magdalen House and how you can help, visit https://www.marymagdalenhouse.org/
Photo credit: Mary Magladen House Facebook page