Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Prince William Sleeping On The Streets For A Night
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/eu_britain_prince_william
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Last Run of the Semester
A few weeks ago was the last Lesley Delivers run of the semester. This run was special because not only did we hand out bagged dinner, but we also went out with coats, blankets, and other winter accessories. These were all donated by people during out winter coat and accessory drive, and some of the blankets were donated by Lesley University’s Campus Activity Board. We didn’t see that many people out because of how cold it was. We talked about how that could be a good thing because the people we have become used to seeing may have found a warm place to sleep. We were able to leave the warm things in places that would only be found by those who were in need and looking for warmth. It felt good to know (even if we couldn’t personally hand coats out) that they were going to someone who needed them. It is important not only at this time of the year to think about warmth, giving, and caring. Treat every day, it doesn’t matter what season, as though it is the holidays. Give a little extra, show people that you care a little more than you normally would. You never know what is around the next corner, what the next day could bring. You never know when you could need some help, even if it ‘s just a smile, to get you through.
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year!
We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Selflessness
Tonight we went on our last sandwich run before Thanksgiving break; we had 6 people come out and we made 24 bag dinners. It was the first night that it was truly cold out, so it wasn’t surprising that there weren’t a lot of people out to give the bags to. The people we did see were grateful and thanked us with what have become familiar smiles and words.
Within the group of people that came there were a lot of people who had come to Lesley Delivers before, some of them have been nervous on their first few times about going up to people and asking them if they wanted food. Tonight I saw a few who hung back before step up and want to do it. It proves that it is not only the people receiving the food that are receiving something, but the people who give as well.
There were three people in a place that we normally stop that one group gave some dinners to, and then on the way back the other group stopped by. At this point the number had grown to six people laying there so, having extra sandwiches, they offered to the people who just got there and the people who were already there. One of the men who was just settling down was very sweet and shy, but talked to us about what we were doing and how cold it was. When we asked him if he wanted a bag, he made sure that we gave one to everyone else before he took one – even though some people there already had two. There were a few that he referred to by their first names and acted like he was close to them. Sometimes we feel the need to be selfless in the face of difficulty. Sometimes we focus so much on the people we care about that we forget ourselves. We forget our basic needs because to us, our friends and family are all that we really do need.
Within the group of people that came there were a lot of people who had come to Lesley Delivers before, some of them have been nervous on their first few times about going up to people and asking them if they wanted food. Tonight I saw a few who hung back before step up and want to do it. It proves that it is not only the people receiving the food that are receiving something, but the people who give as well.
There were three people in a place that we normally stop that one group gave some dinners to, and then on the way back the other group stopped by. At this point the number had grown to six people laying there so, having extra sandwiches, they offered to the people who just got there and the people who were already there. One of the men who was just settling down was very sweet and shy, but talked to us about what we were doing and how cold it was. When we asked him if he wanted a bag, he made sure that we gave one to everyone else before he took one – even though some people there already had two. There were a few that he referred to by their first names and acted like he was close to them. Sometimes we feel the need to be selfless in the face of difficulty. Sometimes we focus so much on the people we care about that we forget ourselves. We forget our basic needs because to us, our friends and family are all that we really do need.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Warmth
Last night Row House came out with us for the run. We had 20 people came out and made 26 bagged dinners. The past few runs we have had a great selection of food to put in the bags because of the donations from the peanut butter and jelly drive. While on the run a group came across a man that we normally see every time. Usually he is with his wife, but last night he was alone. He began to talk with the group about what Lesley Delivers does. He told us that most people out in Harvard Square who are sleeping outside need blankets and asked us if that is something we do. He told us that he usually spends the money he gets on the street on blankets for the other people he sees. This man is truly an inspiration to us. Even though he and his wife are in the same position, he wants to try and better the lives of others.
This is a perfect time to mention that Lesley Deliver and the Lesley University Softball team are sponsoring our 2nd Annual Winter Coat and Accessories Drive. We are looking for an old coats, sweaters/ sweatshirts, blankets, scarves, hats, and gloves that are in good condition to donate to local Cambridge shelters.
If we can learn anything from the man we met last night, it is that helping other stay warm (and helping others in general) can also help you and warm your heart – sometimes that’s the only thing you need to keep warm.
This is a perfect time to mention that Lesley Deliver and the Lesley University Softball team are sponsoring our 2nd Annual Winter Coat and Accessories Drive. We are looking for an old coats, sweaters/ sweatshirts, blankets, scarves, hats, and gloves that are in good condition to donate to local Cambridge shelters.
If we can learn anything from the man we met last night, it is that helping other stay warm (and helping others in general) can also help you and warm your heart – sometimes that’s the only thing you need to keep warm.
Interest
Lesley Delivers and the Class of 2011 paired up last week to do a sandwich run. We had 14 people come out and made 21 bags of food. We saw a lot of people out, which very well could have been because of the weather. We saw the two men who are usually up on the stairs again, but this time was different from the past few times. This time, when some of us went up the stairs they came out from underneath their tarps and blankets and talked with us. It was a happy moment to know that we had made yet another connection and we were able to talk to them about what we do.
We are really glad that more groups and dorms on campus are becoming interested in Lesley Delivers. Collaborating with these groups helps raise awareness and brings people closer together.
We had our first Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive last week, and so many people donated! We received 18 jars of peanut butter and 15 jars of jelly along with many other things to make the runs better. We want to thank everyone for their kindness!
We are really glad that more groups and dorms on campus are becoming interested in Lesley Delivers. Collaborating with these groups helps raise awareness and brings people closer together.
We had our first Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive last week, and so many people donated! We received 18 jars of peanut butter and 15 jars of jelly along with many other things to make the runs better. We want to thank everyone for their kindness!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Relationships
Last night we did a run with nine people that was sponsored by Wendell House on campus. We made 21 bags of food to give out. This time we split up into two groups and covered more space. The main thing we noticed about this run is how many times it was pointed out that there were familiar faces. As we walked by one spot that we always see people in, a man sat up and smiled at us. “It’s good to see you again!” was what we were greeted with. He showed his gratitude and then said “I’ll see you next week!” I am happy with the fact that people are starting to realize that Lesley Delivers is here for them, even if it is raining (and I know Sarah and Jillian are too). As we begin to get familiar with people we begin to have a relationship with them, even if it is for those few fleeting seconds over a sandwich. My hope, besides the hope that they are able to get off the street, is that the people we saw a few weeks ago (and continue to see) who were scared become familiar with us too. Because maybe, if they know it is a Tuesday and someone is coming up the stairs to where they are trying to sleep, they will know it’s us. Maybe we will get a chance to see their full faces. Maybe we will get a chance to talk to them and show them that we want to move the next step in our relationship – actually handing them the bag.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Trust
It’s that time of the week again! Tonight ten of us went out and we handed out 21 bags of food. It was the beginning of the cold nights here in Cambridge, and as we walked around Harvard Square we were reminded of that fact. A few points were brought up tonight at the end reflection. While walking around one group saw two men who were trying to stay warm up a flight of stairs leading to the door of an office building. As we got up the stairs to see if they wanted any food, we found one of them scared in the corner as to who was coming up the stairs. The other was under a tarp that was pulled tight around him. However, once they both heard the word “sandwich” they realized that they had nothing to worry about and that we weren’t trying to kick them out or invade their spot. We put ourselves in their shoes for a moment at reflection and talked about how we would feel the same if a strange person was coming into our apartments or dorms. That spot is what they have to call home for that moment, and they had every right to be scared. What would you do?
The other thing discussed was trust. There was a man that one group offered a bagged dinner and an explanation as to who was giving out the food - and he politely declined. They left one on a bench later on, thinking that someone would need it. While returning from their run, the next group came across the same man and offered him their last bag. He held up the bag that was left on the bench and told us he had one. We gave him a second one anyway. It seemed that once he had the time to think about who was giving the food and also the time on his own to inspect the bag, he was able to trust it and take another. Trust is a big part of life, and even bigger when you are taking food from strangers. When we are young we are taught to do the exact opposite. “Don’t talk to strangers”, “Don’t take food from strangers”, the list goes on. But we are never taught about the times when we have to trust in human kindness in order to get us from one day to the next.
The other thing discussed was trust. There was a man that one group offered a bagged dinner and an explanation as to who was giving out the food - and he politely declined. They left one on a bench later on, thinking that someone would need it. While returning from their run, the next group came across the same man and offered him their last bag. He held up the bag that was left on the bench and told us he had one. We gave him a second one anyway. It seemed that once he had the time to think about who was giving the food and also the time on his own to inspect the bag, he was able to trust it and take another. Trust is a big part of life, and even bigger when you are taking food from strangers. When we are young we are taught to do the exact opposite. “Don’t talk to strangers”, “Don’t take food from strangers”, the list goes on. But we are never taught about the times when we have to trust in human kindness in order to get us from one day to the next.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Connection
Tonight was our second Lesley Delivers sandwich run, and we ran it with a part of White Hall. We had a large group tonight and again split up into three groups that handed out 25 bags of food overall. Almost every bag was given directly to a person when usually we have to leave a bunch in strategic places around Harvard Square. Although it is great to make human connections through this basic action of giving, we have to remember that we don’t want to see that many people out there. This means that more people have no place to go when the night and the cold comes on. In our reflection after the run we talked about how grateful the people getting the food were. We saw some with signs saying “Hungry and poor” and some playing music to keep warm. Some were able to laugh with us, and a few were able to smile with us during the exchange of a simple brown paper bag. One group was stopped by a man who is frequently sitting on a bench alone. They stopped and talked with him for a few minutes after he called them over. He didn’t need food, he needed connection. Some people go through their days without a nod or a smile. Some have incredible life stories that will go unheard because no one is willing to listen. We should all take a moment to think about what we would do if we were not able to express ourselves to loved ones. What if we didn’t have them? Who would we have to share our burdens, and who would we have to share our laughter?
Thursday, October 1, 2009
First Sandwich Run of the Semester
Hi Everyone!
It’s a brand new year for Lesley Delivers, with brand new leadership! Sarah DiGiaimo has taken on the role of Lesley Delivers president, and Jillian Zingale and I have become co-leaders. You’ll be hearing from me every week about the runs that we go on and things that we do as an organization.
This past Tuesday was our first sandwich run of the semester, and it went really well. We had 16 people come to help make the 23 bagged dinners including Merrie Rothstein and Addie Price who also led a group through Harvard Square. Once we got into the square we split up to cover the different areas we have gone to before. There weren’t that many people out, but some of the groups did talk about what it was like to be on their first run. Some talked about how they were a little nervous to go up to someone, for fear of offending people. Which begs the question, who would you ask? What makes you think that someone needs a bagged dinner? We try to think about this every run we do, and usually end it with one such question.
I recently was in a conversation in a class where the professor said “We tend to help people that are more similar to us”. I want to leave you with the thought that ran through my mind when he said that. We are all similar because we are all human, we all have a heart in our chest and breath in our lungs. Therefore, shouldn’t we try to help each other no matter what?
See you next week!
Lyndsey
It’s a brand new year for Lesley Delivers, with brand new leadership! Sarah DiGiaimo has taken on the role of Lesley Delivers president, and Jillian Zingale and I have become co-leaders. You’ll be hearing from me every week about the runs that we go on and things that we do as an organization.
This past Tuesday was our first sandwich run of the semester, and it went really well. We had 16 people come to help make the 23 bagged dinners including Merrie Rothstein and Addie Price who also led a group through Harvard Square. Once we got into the square we split up to cover the different areas we have gone to before. There weren’t that many people out, but some of the groups did talk about what it was like to be on their first run. Some talked about how they were a little nervous to go up to someone, for fear of offending people. Which begs the question, who would you ask? What makes you think that someone needs a bagged dinner? We try to think about this every run we do, and usually end it with one such question.
I recently was in a conversation in a class where the professor said “We tend to help people that are more similar to us”. I want to leave you with the thought that ran through my mind when he said that. We are all similar because we are all human, we all have a heart in our chest and breath in our lungs. Therefore, shouldn’t we try to help each other no matter what?
See you next week!
Lyndsey
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Humanity
Hey Everyone, Lyndsey again! The other night we went out on a run with Sarah DiGiaimo as the leader. It was a small group, and we didn’t see a lot of people out. We ended up leaving bags in different areas that we hoped they would be found.
I have a story that happened to me the other day that I wanted to share. I was walking through Harvard Square, in my own world, when I looked up and saw a man outside of CVS standing with a change cup. As I watched he turned into the flow of foot traffic, and got plowed into by another man who was not paying any attention and walking too fast for his own good. He knocked the man completely on the ground and then stopped. I thought that he was going to apologize and help him back up, but sadly, that was not the case. Instead this man proceeded to scream at the one on the ground about how he needed to get out of the way, and that what had just happened was entirely his fault, along with a stream of obscenities and terrible names. After he felt that his job of berating this man was done he stormed off, without lifting a finger to help him up. Once I got to him, I offered a hand and helped him off the ground. I apologized for what had just happened to him and then, as if by a knee jerk reaction, apologized for not having anything to give him. He turned to me, looked me straight in the eye and said, “No, you acknowledged me, and that’s enough.”
I almost feel no need to try and end this with some moral or lesson that people can take away from this incident. That man’s statement to me is just about as deep and as straight forward as it could possibly be. He is human, as we all are. If we don’t help each other out, than who will?
I have a story that happened to me the other day that I wanted to share. I was walking through Harvard Square, in my own world, when I looked up and saw a man outside of CVS standing with a change cup. As I watched he turned into the flow of foot traffic, and got plowed into by another man who was not paying any attention and walking too fast for his own good. He knocked the man completely on the ground and then stopped. I thought that he was going to apologize and help him back up, but sadly, that was not the case. Instead this man proceeded to scream at the one on the ground about how he needed to get out of the way, and that what had just happened was entirely his fault, along with a stream of obscenities and terrible names. After he felt that his job of berating this man was done he stormed off, without lifting a finger to help him up. Once I got to him, I offered a hand and helped him off the ground. I apologized for what had just happened to him and then, as if by a knee jerk reaction, apologized for not having anything to give him. He turned to me, looked me straight in the eye and said, “No, you acknowledged me, and that’s enough.”
I almost feel no need to try and end this with some moral or lesson that people can take away from this incident. That man’s statement to me is just about as deep and as straight forward as it could possibly be. He is human, as we all are. If we don’t help each other out, than who will?
Saturday, April 18, 2009
White Hall Sandwich Run
Leader of the night: Lyndsey Carpenter
Last night we did a sandwich run with some residents of White Hall. There were only a few people out, but we left sandwiches in different places around Harvard Square. As we were finishing our loop, we noticed that one of the bags we had left had been taken. We can only hope that it was enjoyed. At the debrief we talked about how this was some of the participants first run. Some said that they had started the night thinking that they wouldn’t be nervous, but in the end they were. We talked about how that is a normal feeling and that it was good that they knew that they could step back and just hold the bags. Because in the end, every little bit helps.
Last night we did a sandwich run with some residents of White Hall. There were only a few people out, but we left sandwiches in different places around Harvard Square. As we were finishing our loop, we noticed that one of the bags we had left had been taken. We can only hope that it was enjoyed. At the debrief we talked about how this was some of the participants first run. Some said that they had started the night thinking that they wouldn’t be nervous, but in the end they were. We talked about how that is a normal feeling and that it was good that they knew that they could step back and just hold the bags. Because in the end, every little bit helps.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Lesley Delivers with White 4
Hey Everyone, it’s Lyndsey again! I led Lesley Delivers the other night as a part of Lesley’s Hunger and Homelessness week. We had a perfect mix of people who had come on sandwich runs before and people who hadn’t. It was amazing to see the amount of people that did come because the weather was less than kind and rained the whole time. We did see some people, but not many – which gives me hope that they had found somewhere warm and dry to sleep. We did however see a man sitting next to a strung up tarp and we gave him some sandwiches. As we began to leave we saw him walk over to the tarp and give all of the food to the people underneath it, leaving none for himself. We went back and made sure that he had some for himself before we left. This action made us think about how we are family and friends before we are anything else, including hungry. It is not just the people on the runs who are trying to provide a small bit of comfort and hope, but the people who are sitting with each other in their time of need.
Lesley Delivers with SSJ Part 2
This blog was written by Merrie Rothstein, President of the Community Service Club, about the same experience as the previous post, but from a different point of view.
Lesley Delivers and Students for Social Justice (SSJ) teamed up on Wednesday night to bring peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, juice boxes, snacks, and hand sanitizer to individuals in Harvard Square. It was a quiet night for both Lesley and Harvard Square. We had four Lesley students prepare and deliver meals. Two of the individuals that joined us was experiencing Lesley Delivers for the first time, it’s great to have more students joining in on the experience! There weren’t many individuals around Harvard Square, we were able to hand out a few bagged meals but, also found ourselves leaving bags in areas where people might stop by later in the night. After we de-briefed on the night’s events and discussed our service in connection to social justice issues, I went with another student volunteer to CVS and we noticed on our way in that one of the bags that we had left was already taken. On our way out of CVS to go back to Lesley, we noticed one or two other bags had already been taken. It was a great feeling to see that they had been taken; it was great to see that a few more people would have a sandwich to eat that night! Recently, while we do our sandwich runs, people have been telling us we should come earlier. This week our sandwich runs were earlier than our regular time, and when we went later individuals were in the area to receive the sandwiches we made.
Lesley Delivers and Students for Social Justice (SSJ) teamed up on Wednesday night to bring peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, juice boxes, snacks, and hand sanitizer to individuals in Harvard Square. It was a quiet night for both Lesley and Harvard Square. We had four Lesley students prepare and deliver meals. Two of the individuals that joined us was experiencing Lesley Delivers for the first time, it’s great to have more students joining in on the experience! There weren’t many individuals around Harvard Square, we were able to hand out a few bagged meals but, also found ourselves leaving bags in areas where people might stop by later in the night. After we de-briefed on the night’s events and discussed our service in connection to social justice issues, I went with another student volunteer to CVS and we noticed on our way in that one of the bags that we had left was already taken. On our way out of CVS to go back to Lesley, we noticed one or two other bags had already been taken. It was a great feeling to see that they had been taken; it was great to see that a few more people would have a sandwich to eat that night! Recently, while we do our sandwich runs, people have been telling us we should come earlier. This week our sandwich runs were earlier than our regular time, and when we went later individuals were in the area to receive the sandwiches we made.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Lesley Delivers with Students for Social Justice
This blog was written by Lesley University Senior Sandy Ho, President of Students For Social Justice.
The other night Students for Social Justice had the opportunity to host a Lesley Delivers event. The goal was not only to reach out to the homeless population in Harvard Square, but in doing so to connect with our friends engaged in direct service with social justice. From the social justice perspective I am engaged in classes that teach me about social policies, and have had several internships that deal with political activity on both a national and international scale. Admittedly, I went into the experience with very little experience and knowledge of direct service; simply stated, this notion of directly impacting one individual's life or several individuals' lives was new to me.
The night before however, I had attended a presentation by Dr. Jesse Gaeta - a doctor who provides healthcare for homeless individuals. In her presentation she not only gave an incredibly eye-opening and humbling talk on how she provides health care services, but was able to put it into a context of what is going on in the policy world. Her discussion with us stressed that housing and health care are human rights. And though our communities and federal government has resources, her approach with her patients is not one of doctor and patient - but one that puts the individual on center stage. "How did this person come to be in the state s/he is in?" And from there she frames her support, she guides the individual, she provides the services - this is in sharp contrast to what I view my relationship with my own physicians which many times is framed in a "doctor's orders" context. That evening I asked Dr. Gaeta how she navigates the perspective of direct service with large-scale political change, and whether or not it was difficult (as she made it seem so seamless and natural). I would soon be able to find out for myself...
That night more than ever before, I felt at the cross roads of civic engagement. Up until that point I had largely thought of social justice action as those that implement structural change on a greater societal level, and direct service as a temporary band-aid on the problem. Political lobbying on Capitol Hill during my Washington Semester in D.C. vs. handing out sandwiches in Harvard Square to the homeless: The differences between the two forms of activity are obvious, but are there any similarities? Was it possible for me to connect the two 'spheres of service' ? I would soon learn that not only are there more similarities than I had thought, but the two together are critical if we are to be successful in our fight against homelessness.
I looked aroung the group of students who were out with me that night. The wide diversity in backgrounds and interests represented reflects not only a personal choice, but in doing so highlights the fact that both volunteerism and social justice provides an opportunity for diverse people to engage in a personal choice together. The second similarity I noticed was that the divide between Students for Social Justice members and Lesley Delivers was non-existant, we were all together to be involved in a purposeful and change-oriented activity.
As an intern at Be the Change Inc., a major convener of the recently passed Serve America Act - I have come to appreciate the critical need and perspective of direct impact. When legislation is presented to the Senate, our Senators utilize the stories of direct impact, effect, and positive change on real people to persuade their fellow colleagues for or against a certain political-change. As I wrapped up the group's reflection that night, we were able to see how volunteers effect political agenda-setting and policy-making, but as I said good-night to the individuals who I had gotten to know better that night I also realized that the direct volunteerism we were involved in changes the relationships between people of different parts of society.
The other night Students for Social Justice had the opportunity to host a Lesley Delivers event. The goal was not only to reach out to the homeless population in Harvard Square, but in doing so to connect with our friends engaged in direct service with social justice. From the social justice perspective I am engaged in classes that teach me about social policies, and have had several internships that deal with political activity on both a national and international scale. Admittedly, I went into the experience with very little experience and knowledge of direct service; simply stated, this notion of directly impacting one individual's life or several individuals' lives was new to me.
The night before however, I had attended a presentation by Dr. Jesse Gaeta - a doctor who provides healthcare for homeless individuals. In her presentation she not only gave an incredibly eye-opening and humbling talk on how she provides health care services, but was able to put it into a context of what is going on in the policy world. Her discussion with us stressed that housing and health care are human rights. And though our communities and federal government has resources, her approach with her patients is not one of doctor and patient - but one that puts the individual on center stage. "How did this person come to be in the state s/he is in?" And from there she frames her support, she guides the individual, she provides the services - this is in sharp contrast to what I view my relationship with my own physicians which many times is framed in a "doctor's orders" context. That evening I asked Dr. Gaeta how she navigates the perspective of direct service with large-scale political change, and whether or not it was difficult (as she made it seem so seamless and natural). I would soon be able to find out for myself...
That night more than ever before, I felt at the cross roads of civic engagement. Up until that point I had largely thought of social justice action as those that implement structural change on a greater societal level, and direct service as a temporary band-aid on the problem. Political lobbying on Capitol Hill during my Washington Semester in D.C. vs. handing out sandwiches in Harvard Square to the homeless: The differences between the two forms of activity are obvious, but are there any similarities? Was it possible for me to connect the two 'spheres of service' ? I would soon learn that not only are there more similarities than I had thought, but the two together are critical if we are to be successful in our fight against homelessness.
I looked aroung the group of students who were out with me that night. The wide diversity in backgrounds and interests represented reflects not only a personal choice, but in doing so highlights the fact that both volunteerism and social justice provides an opportunity for diverse people to engage in a personal choice together. The second similarity I noticed was that the divide between Students for Social Justice members and Lesley Delivers was non-existant, we were all together to be involved in a purposeful and change-oriented activity.
As an intern at Be the Change Inc., a major convener of the recently passed Serve America Act - I have come to appreciate the critical need and perspective of direct impact. When legislation is presented to the Senate, our Senators utilize the stories of direct impact, effect, and positive change on real people to persuade their fellow colleagues for or against a certain political-change. As I wrapped up the group's reflection that night, we were able to see how volunteers effect political agenda-setting and policy-making, but as I said good-night to the individuals who I had gotten to know better that night I also realized that the direct volunteerism we were involved in changes the relationships between people of different parts of society.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Lesley Delivers with Class of 2011
Hi! I'm Sarah DiGiaimo and I led the Lesley Delivers last night. It was also the first day of Hunger and Homelessness Week and the kick-off to a nightly sandwich run. Last night's run was sponsored by the Class of 2011 and seven people from the class came to help. Everyone on the run last night was there for their first time. It was great to see new faces joining Lesley Delivers and more people who care about helping out the homeless in our community. We made 20 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and had a variety of snacks and candy to add to the bags. Unfortunately it was a very cold night, but we saw two different groups of people in Harvard Square and they seemed to be staying together, hopefully to keep warm. They were very grateful for the sandwiches and immediately started eating them. It was great to know that our sandwiches were going to those who needed them. Hopefully now that it is Spring, it will start to get warmer and make for more comfortable nights for those who have no shelter.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Reunion
Several weeks ago I ran into the couple from one of our first sandwich runs- the ones who were kicked out of the shelter for two weeks. We found each other on the T and had a wonderful reunion as the woman told me all about her new apartment that they had only been living in for a short time. I was so excited and happy for them that life had perhaps become a smidgen better. We exchanged tears and goodbyes and wished each other luck. She said that she had never forgotten about the students who had helped her get through her first night on the street.
Today I ran into the couple again. They now have a steady home, are 7 months pregnant (which means they were pregnant on the street), and have not forgotten us. She called me her "guardian angel" as I met members of her family who knew all about our group, shook my hand, and thanked me. It was an incredible experience.
I don't know how many people have been positively affected by Lesley Delivers, but I do know it has touched one life profoundly: mine.
Today I ran into the couple again. They now have a steady home, are 7 months pregnant (which means they were pregnant on the street), and have not forgotten us. She called me her "guardian angel" as I met members of her family who knew all about our group, shook my hand, and thanked me. It was an incredible experience.
I don't know how many people have been positively affected by Lesley Delivers, but I do know it has touched one life profoundly: mine.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Blog for 2/25
Tonight I worked with Sam and Reed House to venture out on this cold, windy night. We had 4 participants, all excited to meet our friends in Harvard Square. We went out earlier than usual. As a result, we did not see as many people as usual. We wondered if this was a positive thing or a negative one...
If people aren't out, are they somewhere safe?
If people aren't out, are they somewhere safe?
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Blog for 2/17/2009
We are a little behind in blogging! So I will attempt to catch up on this lazy Boston Sunday, covered with snow.
For the Sandwich Run on 2/17/2009, Lyndsey Carpenter co-led the event along with myself. The run of the night was not an "open" event as usual, but was directed towards all participants of Lesley's Alternative Spring Break to Asheville, North Carolina. These individuals will choose to spend their Spring Break helping in the Asheville community with Habitat for Humanity. Other groups will travel to Spartanburg, South Carolina to work with Habitat for Humanity and also Camden, New Jersey to participate in several projects focused around social justice.
Nine people from the Asheville group were able to come out on this night, making 20 bag dinners total and even adding candy bars in to spread some Valentine's Day spirit- for those who wanted it.
During the debrief, I asked (as I always do): "How can you tell if someone is homeless? Is there a way to tell?" (After all this time and all of these sandwich runs, I still don't know the answer and perhaps never will.) One person suggested that the energy someone gives off could be an indicator. She expanded on this and stated that sometimes people who are homeless do not want to connect with others. This is an interesting thought and it further shows that every person we meet throughout our lives is different; homeless, not homeless, hungry, or not hungry.
For the Sandwich Run on 2/17/2009, Lyndsey Carpenter co-led the event along with myself. The run of the night was not an "open" event as usual, but was directed towards all participants of Lesley's Alternative Spring Break to Asheville, North Carolina. These individuals will choose to spend their Spring Break helping in the Asheville community with Habitat for Humanity. Other groups will travel to Spartanburg, South Carolina to work with Habitat for Humanity and also Camden, New Jersey to participate in several projects focused around social justice.
Nine people from the Asheville group were able to come out on this night, making 20 bag dinners total and even adding candy bars in to spread some Valentine's Day spirit- for those who wanted it.
During the debrief, I asked (as I always do): "How can you tell if someone is homeless? Is there a way to tell?" (After all this time and all of these sandwich runs, I still don't know the answer and perhaps never will.) One person suggested that the energy someone gives off could be an indicator. She expanded on this and stated that sometimes people who are homeless do not want to connect with others. This is an interesting thought and it further shows that every person we meet throughout our lives is different; homeless, not homeless, hungry, or not hungry.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Vicious Cycle
Homeless families face strict new rules
Firm standards set for work, behavior; Some say many will be forced into streets
''It's a catch-22,'' Grace Monteiro, with her son Keegan, said of housing regulations for the city's homeless. Monteiro, 28, has been in and out of shelters and apartments for several years. ''It's a catch-22,'' Grace Monteiro, with her son Keegan, said of housing regulations for the city's homeless. Monteiro, 28, has been in and out of shelters and apartments for several years. (John Bohn/ Globe Staff)
By David Abel
Globe Staff / February 17, 2009
Less than two years after vowing to end homelessness in Massachusetts, the Patrick administration has proposed new regulations that it acknowledges could force hundreds of homeless families back on the street.
The regulations, scheduled to take effect April 1, would deny shelter to families who in the last three years had been evicted from or had abandoned public or subsidized housing without good cause, and to those who fail to meet a new 30-hour per week work requirement and save 30 percent of their income.
They also would reduce from six months to three months the period families can remain in shelters after their incomes rise above state limits; force out families absent from shelters for at least two consecutive nights as well as those who reject one offer of housing without good reason; and deny benefits for families whose members have outstanding default or arrest warrants as well as those whose only child is between ages 18 and 21, unless the child has a disability or is in high school.
Advocates for the homeless decried the proposal, which comes at a time when more homeless families are seeking beds in state shelters and remaining there longer. This month, the state is providing shelter for a record of nearly 2,700 families - one-quarter of them cramming for weeks at a time in expensive, often unsuitable motel rooms.
"This is not the time to change the safety net," said Robyn Frost, executive director of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless. "The number of people in need of shelter is like nothing we've ever seen. There's never been such a desperate need for housing, and these changes could be devastating. They couldn't come at a worse time."
Julia E. Kehoe, the commissioner of the Department of Transitional Assistance, which oversees state shelters, said the system is "overburdened" and must change to provide services more equitably.
"It is certainly not our intent to be punitive, and we understand the difficulties families are facing," Kehoe said. "But we are responsible for transforming the system, and particularly at a challenging time, it is absolutely critical that all stake holders need to work together to make sure that families have the greatest chance of moving out of shelter and poverty."
While hundreds of families will likely lose their shelter beds, she said the changes would open space for qualifying families, many of whom the state is now paying an average of $85 a night to stay in motels. Last week, more than 630 families, including about 1,000 children, were staying at motels, waiting an average 22 days for a spot at the state's 59 shelters.
By reducing those eligible for shelter, Kehoe said the new regulations would save the state $520,000 this fiscal year and more than $11 million in fiscal 2010. "Given our limited resources, we wanted to encourage people to find housing or stay where they are, rather than encouraging them to come into the system," she said.
But those who work with the state's neediest residents said the new "harsh restrictions" will only make it harder for the homeless to find a way out of poverty.
They said many of the regulations are open to interpretation and risk being applied unfairly if a shelter director doesn't consider an explanation reasonable. Other regulations, such as the work and income requirements, would replace individual plans with uniform policies that might not take into account a family's unique challenges. And they worried that many of the families' older children - who are eligible to stay in state shelters until age 21 - will end up alone in often more dangerous shelters for individual adults.
Tom Lorello, executive director of Heading Home, which houses about 110 families in shelters and apartments throughout the Boston area, said many of the new regulations "put the blame in the wrong place."
"I don't understand the idea of excluding people in need from shelters," he said. "There has to be flexibility in a system like this. For example, some people can't save their income because they have debts to pay. We shouldn't be putting any unnecessary strains on already strained families."
But Kehoe insisted the regulations will be applied fairly and noted they provide exceptions for families trying to pay down their debt, for those who hold jobs that might make them reluctant to accept a housing opportunity too far away, and for others who can't find affordable housing after their income rises above welfare limits.
She and other state officials said the regulations are part of the administration's effort to overhaul the shelter system by more quickly moving the homeless into more permanent housing. In 2007, state officials moved the last homeless family out of a motel and heralded it as part of their new strategy to help all of the state's homeless find permanent housing.
As part of that plan, the state recently merged the welfare agency's emergency shelter programs with housing programs run by the Department of Housing and Community Development and is now planning eight regional networks to better coordinate homeless services and housing.
And this month, the state revised the way it pays shelters, holding back thousands of dollars in payments until homeless families are housed. The state now withholds its final payments for a year after the family leaves the system, as part of an incentive for shelters to extend their services to help keep the families housed.
"We know the severity of the problem, and we're trying to provide a comprehensive approach," said Bob Pulster, executive director of the state's Interagency Council on Housing and Homelessness.
He and others said they expect to receive millions of dollars from the federal stimulus package, which they hope will ease the state's growing burden.
But they said federal money won't stop the new regulations from taking effect - and the imminent changes have Grace Monteiro worried.
The 28-year-old mother of a toddler has been in and out of shelters and apartments for several years. In the fall of 2007, six months after landing a $15-an-hour job as an administrative assistant, she was forced to move out of a shelter because she exceeded the income requirements, which is now an income of $1,578 a month for a family of two.
So she moved into an expensive studio apartment - she couldn't find affordable housing in time - but she had trouble balancing the rent with her other expenses. Within a few months, Monteiro lost her job and she and her son moved into a state-subsidized motel room and then back into the shelter system.
She says three months isn't long enough for many families to find affordable apartments, which are increasingly scarce. As a result, she thinks the new regulations will just encourage more parents to avoid working.
"It's a catch-22," she said. "I want to get a job, but I'm afraid to get a job. I don't want to repeat what happened last time. Because if I don't have housing after three months, then what? This just makes it harder to do the right thing."
David Abel can be reached at dabel@globe.com.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Lyndsey
Hi Everyone! I’m Lyndsey Carpenter and I am a guest blogger for Lesley Delivers. We went out last night with Sarah DiGiaimo as a co-leader. There will be other people taking leadership roles, such as co-leader or blogging, as Lesley Delivers grows. But now on to the good stuff! We had 15 people come out with us tonight for the first sandwich run of the semester! That’s such a great turn out considering that a lot of people are already swamped with work.
Once we got into Harvard Square we began to realize one thing – we weren’t seeing many people. In fact, we ended up with a few bagged dinners left after the run was over. During the debrief we discussed this with mixed feelings. It is mostly a good thing to have food left over because we can only hope this means that the people on the streets have found safe places to stay. There is an underlying worry about not being able to reach everyone, people who go unseen to the passerby. But we have to remember that we are doing a great thing by going out each night that we do. We cannot do everything, but if we can make the night more comfortable for one person, it’s worth it.
While doing a loop around the square again, we saw a man who we had given a dinner to earlier. He was eating his sandwich, and this made us feel good about what we were doing. Another moment that created a warm feeling within us was when we passed by a place where we had left a few dinners and noticed that they were gone. We can only hope that they were being used and enjoyed.
In our discussion after the run, we gained a new insight on what we are doing from a participant. She said that the people we may come in contact with “may have homes, but may still be hungry.” This reminded us that not only are we fighting homelessness, we are fighting hunger on its own. We also talked and gain a new perspective on homelessness and shelters. A participant talked about how sometimes one would have to go from shelter to shelter looking for a bed, and that is oftentimes detrimental to getting back on your feet. She said, “You can’t move on with your life when you’re looking for a bed.”
It is hard to do, but I want to ask you to think about one thing. What if. Yes, the dreaded “what if”. What if the bed you are sitting in, or thinking about retiring to, was no longer there? What if you had to go find a place and wait for your name to be drawn to know if you had a comfortable, safe place to rest? Could you do it? Some people don’t have the luxury of answering that question. Some people just have to do it. It takes energy to think about it, but it takes much more strength and courage to live it.
Once we got into Harvard Square we began to realize one thing – we weren’t seeing many people. In fact, we ended up with a few bagged dinners left after the run was over. During the debrief we discussed this with mixed feelings. It is mostly a good thing to have food left over because we can only hope this means that the people on the streets have found safe places to stay. There is an underlying worry about not being able to reach everyone, people who go unseen to the passerby. But we have to remember that we are doing a great thing by going out each night that we do. We cannot do everything, but if we can make the night more comfortable for one person, it’s worth it.
While doing a loop around the square again, we saw a man who we had given a dinner to earlier. He was eating his sandwich, and this made us feel good about what we were doing. Another moment that created a warm feeling within us was when we passed by a place where we had left a few dinners and noticed that they were gone. We can only hope that they were being used and enjoyed.
In our discussion after the run, we gained a new insight on what we are doing from a participant. She said that the people we may come in contact with “may have homes, but may still be hungry.” This reminded us that not only are we fighting homelessness, we are fighting hunger on its own. We also talked and gain a new perspective on homelessness and shelters. A participant talked about how sometimes one would have to go from shelter to shelter looking for a bed, and that is oftentimes detrimental to getting back on your feet. She said, “You can’t move on with your life when you’re looking for a bed.”
It is hard to do, but I want to ask you to think about one thing. What if. Yes, the dreaded “what if”. What if the bed you are sitting in, or thinking about retiring to, was no longer there? What if you had to go find a place and wait for your name to be drawn to know if you had a comfortable, safe place to rest? Could you do it? Some people don’t have the luxury of answering that question. Some people just have to do it. It takes energy to think about it, but it takes much more strength and courage to live it.
Monday, February 2, 2009
The President Is Not the Only Thing That Needs a Vote
Thanks, Anne-Marie!
The Greater Boston Food Bank is entered in The Virgin America What's Your Revolution Charity Promotion for Non-Profits in the Boston area. Any 501(c) 3 organization who has entered and has the most votes will receive a donation of $25,000! With the assistance of our short-notice volunteers I think we can pull this one out! $25,000 will help feed 100,000 people!!
The Food Bank is currently in 80th place, although standing may change by the time you receive this message.
Before voting, you will need to register with the site; Registering is EXTREMELY easy, and you wont be harrassed by Virgin with emails! They only require someone to reigster so there is not one person continually voting for the same organization.
Click here http://revolutiontakesflight.com/categories/133-non-profit-causes/page-2> (http://revolutiontakesflight.com/)
Once you’ve logged on, please scroll down the page(s) until you see Greater Boston Food Bank and click on the “VOTE” icon to vote.
Please do your part by voting for us and forwarding this e-mail message to everyone in your network, including family, friends, colleagues, etc!
Voting ends on February 6, 2009 and is open to legal residents of Massachusetts who are at least twenty one (21) years old.
Thank you for your continued support of our organization,
Steven Brady
Volunteer Assistant
The Greater Boston Food Bank
617.427.5200, ext. 5096
sbrady@gbfb.org
www.gbfb.org
www.newfoodbank.org
The Greater Boston Food Bank is entered in The Virgin America What's Your Revolution Charity Promotion for Non-Profits in the Boston area. Any 501(c) 3 organization who has entered and has the most votes will receive a donation of $25,000! With the assistance of our short-notice volunteers I think we can pull this one out! $25,000 will help feed 100,000 people!!
The Food Bank is currently in 80th place, although standing may change by the time you receive this message.
Before voting, you will need to register with the site; Registering is EXTREMELY easy, and you wont be harrassed by Virgin with emails! They only require someone to reigster so there is not one person continually voting for the same organization.
Click here http://revolutiontakesflight.com/categories/133-non-profit-causes/page-2> (http://revolutiontakesflight.com/)
Once you’ve logged on, please scroll down the page(s) until you see Greater Boston Food Bank and click on the “VOTE” icon to vote.
Please do your part by voting for us and forwarding this e-mail message to everyone in your network, including family, friends, colleagues, etc!
Voting ends on February 6, 2009 and is open to legal residents of Massachusetts who are at least twenty one (21) years old.
Thank you for your continued support of our organization,
Steven Brady
Volunteer Assistant
The Greater Boston Food Bank
617.427.5200, ext. 5096
sbrady@gbfb.org
www.gbfb.org
www.newfoodbank.org
Friday, January 23, 2009
New Year, New Goals
Happy New Year! In just three days, the new semester will begin. Over break, I have thought a lot about what Lesley Delivers "should" be and also, what it is becoming. Many of my days have been spent in preparation for the organization to be up and running as we once again begin to hear the hustle and bustle of students around the Lesley campus (including Harvard Square).
I recently took a trip to El Salvador to work with Habitat for Humanity. Though I knew the quality of life would be much different from what we are accustomed to in the U.S., I could never have imagined how great that difference would be. The poverty was so immense, yet the general feeling was much more uplifting than what we find here. Material objects are not placed on a pedestal, family is more important than money, and life is lived at a slower, much more relaxed pace. The result? A statistically poorer, yet seemingly altogether happier country and culture.
Which is more important?
Here's to another great semester--with redefined goals and an even stronger desire .
I recently took a trip to El Salvador to work with Habitat for Humanity. Though I knew the quality of life would be much different from what we are accustomed to in the U.S., I could never have imagined how great that difference would be. The poverty was so immense, yet the general feeling was much more uplifting than what we find here. Material objects are not placed on a pedestal, family is more important than money, and life is lived at a slower, much more relaxed pace. The result? A statistically poorer, yet seemingly altogether happier country and culture.
Which is more important?
Here's to another great semester--with redefined goals and an even stronger desire .
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Wake Up and Smell the (Coffee) Housing Crisis
This article is from the Boston Globe and was in the "Metro" Section on January 6th, 2009.
Homeless families rise 22% in a year
Children hit particularly hard, Hub census says
By Milton J. Valencia
Globe Staff / January 6, 2009
The number of homeless families living in Boston has jumped for the fourth straight year, making children without a home the fastest-growing group, according to results from the mayor's annual census.
The Homeless Census showed that the number of families living in emergency shelters, transitional housing, or even in motels jumped 22 percent in the past year, from 3,175 in 2007 to 3,870 in December. The number of children without a home soared 24 percent in 2008, from 1,850 to 2,288.
As past programs have targeted the elderly and people with drug addictions and mental illnesses, city officials said a new, concerted effort is needed to assist homeless families as their numbers climb during tough economic times.
"For families, it's really about insufficient income to afford a place to live," said Jim Greene, director of the city's Emergency Shelter Commission. "Family homelessness is caused by the divide between people's incomes and housing costs, and when the gap is too great the problem gets worse."
The Homeless Census, required by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, is based on a count of the overall number of people living in emergency shelters, transitional housing, hospitals and medical facilities, hotels and motels, and on the streets on one given night.
On Dec. 15, Mayor Thomas M. Menino and about 350 volunteers including city and state officials went into Boston's neighborhoods, reaching out to people living in alleys and under bridges and referring them to shelters and programs.
City officials counted an overall total of 7,681 homeless people that night - which included individuals and family members - up from 6,930 last year, an 11 percent jump.
The census, however, also showed that while the number of families without homes has climbed, the count of homeless individuals only - those considered unaccompanied by anyone - has held steady over the last several years, a tribute to new strategies in reaching out to people living on the streets.
According to the census, the city counted 3,811 homeless individuals, compared with 3,705 last year, a 3 percent increase.
A positive sign of the survey was that the number of elderly people living on the street dropped from a high of 77 in 2004 to fewer than 30 last month.
"We have made some progress, but more needs to be done," Menino said in a statement, adding, "this census reflects the growing challenge that low-income families, especially young mothers, are facing during tough economic times."
Joe Finn, executive director of the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance, said the stable number of homeless individuals is a credit to Menino's strategy to find people homes before treatment is discussed.
Only then, he said, can officials work with someone to address the root problems that caused them to be homeless - mental illness, substance abuse, or economic woes.
Lyndia Downie, president and executive director of the Pine Street Inn, a Boston homeless shelter, said the increase in the number of families without homes is an ugly sign of the touch economic times.
"I think it's part of a trend across the country, where a combination of so many things going on with the economy are really hitting families in every way," she said.
Greene said that the homeless families often include a single parent who lost a job. In other cases, parents have jobs but still can't afford housing. Meantime, funding for housing vouchers has plunged, he said.
"We need more than just what the city can do," Greene said. "We need the state and federal government to look at the housing crisis for families. We need every level of government and the private and nonprofit sector aligning their resources to address this housing crisis."
Homeless families rise 22% in a year
Children hit particularly hard, Hub census says
By Milton J. Valencia
Globe Staff / January 6, 2009
The number of homeless families living in Boston has jumped for the fourth straight year, making children without a home the fastest-growing group, according to results from the mayor's annual census.
The Homeless Census showed that the number of families living in emergency shelters, transitional housing, or even in motels jumped 22 percent in the past year, from 3,175 in 2007 to 3,870 in December. The number of children without a home soared 24 percent in 2008, from 1,850 to 2,288.
As past programs have targeted the elderly and people with drug addictions and mental illnesses, city officials said a new, concerted effort is needed to assist homeless families as their numbers climb during tough economic times.
"For families, it's really about insufficient income to afford a place to live," said Jim Greene, director of the city's Emergency Shelter Commission. "Family homelessness is caused by the divide between people's incomes and housing costs, and when the gap is too great the problem gets worse."
The Homeless Census, required by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, is based on a count of the overall number of people living in emergency shelters, transitional housing, hospitals and medical facilities, hotels and motels, and on the streets on one given night.
On Dec. 15, Mayor Thomas M. Menino and about 350 volunteers including city and state officials went into Boston's neighborhoods, reaching out to people living in alleys and under bridges and referring them to shelters and programs.
City officials counted an overall total of 7,681 homeless people that night - which included individuals and family members - up from 6,930 last year, an 11 percent jump.
The census, however, also showed that while the number of families without homes has climbed, the count of homeless individuals only - those considered unaccompanied by anyone - has held steady over the last several years, a tribute to new strategies in reaching out to people living on the streets.
According to the census, the city counted 3,811 homeless individuals, compared with 3,705 last year, a 3 percent increase.
A positive sign of the survey was that the number of elderly people living on the street dropped from a high of 77 in 2004 to fewer than 30 last month.
"We have made some progress, but more needs to be done," Menino said in a statement, adding, "this census reflects the growing challenge that low-income families, especially young mothers, are facing during tough economic times."
Joe Finn, executive director of the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance, said the stable number of homeless individuals is a credit to Menino's strategy to find people homes before treatment is discussed.
Only then, he said, can officials work with someone to address the root problems that caused them to be homeless - mental illness, substance abuse, or economic woes.
Lyndia Downie, president and executive director of the Pine Street Inn, a Boston homeless shelter, said the increase in the number of families without homes is an ugly sign of the touch economic times.
"I think it's part of a trend across the country, where a combination of so many things going on with the economy are really hitting families in every way," she said.
Greene said that the homeless families often include a single parent who lost a job. In other cases, parents have jobs but still can't afford housing. Meantime, funding for housing vouchers has plunged, he said.
"We need more than just what the city can do," Greene said. "We need the state and federal government to look at the housing crisis for families. We need every level of government and the private and nonprofit sector aligning their resources to address this housing crisis."
Sunday, January 4, 2009
An Article
Dec 4, 2008
LU SOFTBALL AND LESLEY DELIVERS ORGANIZE COAT DRIVE
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. - The Lesley University softball team teamed up with Lesley Delivers to organize the 1st ever Coat and Winter Accessory Drive on campus. The drive was held for two weeks in November and succeeded in collecting over 125 items that were delivered to the Margaret Fuller House in Central Square.
After all the collecting and sorting was completed, both groups collected over 25 women's dress coats, 15 men's coats, 61 accessories (including scarves, gloves, mittens, hats), 15 kid's items, four casual sweaters/sweatshirts, four pairs of shoes, and two blankets.
"As a team, we were thrilled to partner with Lesley Delivers to run our first coat drive," commented Head Coach Jen Benway. "As part of Lesley's mission to "Wake Up the World," we wanted to do our part to give back to the community. With winter right around the corner, it made sense to gather coats and accessories to help those in need."
Several of the collectors were able to see the delivery through to the Margaret Fuller House which is a local food pantry that also has an annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive around the holidays. Many people in need were given turkeys, beans, vegetables, and other ingredients to prepare for family and friends on Thanksgiving. Along with the food that was distributed, people also received additional warm clothing that they were not expecting.
"It was remarkable to see the support from the Lesley community. We received more coats than we ever expected and because of the success that we had we hope to continue the coat drive each winter. Thank you to all the faculty, staff, and students from Lesley and AIB for their support!"
Lesley Delivers is a student-run organization dedicated to supporting the homeless individuals around Lesley University and the Cambridge community. Look for Lesley Delivers to provide opportunities to serve at local shelters such as Rosie's Place and conduct local sandwich runs before school breaks for the holiday break.
To learn more about the Lesley University softball team, please visit their website and to learn more about Lesley Delivers, please visit their blog.
To learn more about the Lesley University softball team, please visit their website.
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