DESTIGMATIZE HOMELESSNESS IN ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU SEE A HOMELESS PERSON
Reaching Out
Many lives of homeless people have changed all because of people reaching out to them. However, approaching someone you see on the street that is in need of help may be hard. These tips listed below can help you to understand the best ways to reach out to the homeless individuals more effectively.
TIPS FOR HELPING THE HOMELESS
WHAT TO KEEP IN YOUR CAR: BE READY TO HELP
Things you could keep on hand to give to homeless people instead of money include:
Keep grocery store gift cards handy (never give away money, many homeless people are known to have problems with drugs and alcohol, and this money may be used for those purposes)
Keep snacks which provide energy and nutrition, as well as water, handy to give
It does get cold at night and they would be grateful for gloves, scarfs, knit hats, blankets, etc (maybe you have gently used items you would be willing to donate to them)
RESPECT WHEN ENGAGING IN A CONVERSATION
When engaging in a conversation with them, ask them questions such as asking about their day, their story, and anything else about themselves might get you closer to being able to put them into the right direction. You could perhaps refer them to a local shelter (look below our "Homeless Shelters in OC" page to find the nearest one to your location)
RECOGNIZE AND SHARE
Not all homeless people are in the same situation, so try not to be so bound to the stereotypes that you hear about the homeless. Now that you have educated yourself, be ready to spread awareness to other on how to help, perhaps referring them to our website. Get together with friends when safe to give back to your community by volunteering and donating!
IF YOU ARE UNCOMFORTABLE APPROACHING THE HOMELESS
Taking precautions for your own safety is also important, many homeless could be past fugitives who are running from the law. You could also help by:
Donate to money to homeless organizations
Donate to food pantries
Volunteer for homeless organization (find homeless organizations near you on our “Homeless Shelters in OC” page)