Experiencing Homelessness Is Often Extremely Lonely

For better or worse, this time of year can inspire many feelings. For many of us, the idea of gathering together with loved ones, eating good food, and exchanging gifts is quite heartwarming. Unfortunately, this time of year can be quite painful for others, specifically for our guests at City Relief. 

Experiencing homelessness is often extremely lonely. 

We often associate homelessness with financial poverty or a lack of material possessions, but one of the hardest aspects of experiencing homelessness is the loss of relationships. 

Many of our guests are separated from their kids because they can’t provide stable housing, and others are separated from their parents or their siblings because of tragedy or trauma. 

Whatever the situation, I hope that this season inspires you to appreciate your community and consider ways to open up your doors (literally or figuratively) to those around you who are hurting or alone. 

It’s important that we recognize the value of simply being together.

-Josiah Haken