So, as Don mentioned in service today, I went to a conference on affordable housing over the weekend. Pretty big event with some MPs and Mayor Sam Sullivan attending. Homelessness and lack of affordable housing is a big concern. The stats are pretty worrisome. Homelessness doubled in the city of Vancouver in the last 3 years alone with 1,292 people sleeping on the streets (2057 in Greater Van). In the last 3 years, homelessness among seniors tripled. It's a complicated issue - increasing cost of housing, inadequate amounts of welfare, addictions, mental illness (74% of those homeless had health issues).
So, I guess, my question is this: If everyone is equal and made in God's image, what are we doing about this problem? What is the Church doing about this? There were only 33 people homeless in Richmond (it's definately undercounted), but that number will only increase.
There are no easy answers, but maybe we as a church need to start thinking of what we can do. I heard some amazing stories of people turning their basements into affordable housing suites, of a church that now runs 5 houses for refuge claiments, trafficked girls, and others in need, as well as Christians talking to leaders to change public policy.
Where do we start?
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I don't have much of an
I don't have much of an answer... but Al, that is one awesome avatar. hahahaha.
But seriously, we start lobbying our government reps with emails and letters. They do respond, albeit with cookie cutter emails. Join in on the charitable compaigns at work (United Way is still huge). Sign up for MakePovertyHistory and attend the local events. Do an outreach with your small group. Keep up to date with your community. Let the issue sit at the top of your mind, else it'll just be pushed aside.
It's a long term dedication to a persistent problem.