5th Annual Blankets for the Homeless

The solution to the homeless issue in Los Angeles won’t come today, tomorrow, or a year from now. I know this is a problem that seems overwhelming and insurmountable. We often look for someone to blame for this situation, either those subjected to it or the government for not providing adequate resources. In these instances, I rather extend a hand to help instead of extending a finger to point blame.

“The homeless didn’t create homelessness… society did, rent prices did, the lack of jobs did, the economy did. [Us] homeless people don’t have the power to create a situation like this. We’re just subjected to it.” - Unhoused individual

It’s easy to judge those whose actions reflect their frustrations of living on the street without friends, family, or hope for the future. A litany of possibilities can lead someone to call the streets their home. Some have lost their jobs, are disabled, have lost family members and, with that, their support system—some are mentally ill or caught in the midst of an addiction. Still, with the hundreds of homeless individuals I’ve spoken to in the past three years, no situation is the same.

“This is about survival. I've been through…” He pauses as he mumbles under his breath, “it’s just about survival, that’s about it.” - Richard Thompson, 45, unhoused individual.

“We are not all the same,” is a quote I’ve heard over a dozen times in the past four years while conducting deliveries to the homeless. It’s hard to say who each of us would be if we were at our worst, without the safety of a home, without the promise of food, and without many or any willing to share love with us. We've gotten used to tomorrows because we’ve seen many of them, but it’s not promised to anyone, especially the unhoused community. I believe if people need help, and I can, I will–simply. This is the reason I started this small charity five years ago, and through the support of you all, this is the reason why I’m continuing it this winter for the 5th consecutive year.

For the 5th consecutive year, I will attempt to garner funds, donations, and awareness to help those who need it most. Last year, with all who supported, we were able to reach our goal of raising $3,000. With those funds, I was able to obtain 200 bags filled with—blankets, socks, gloves, beanies, washcloths, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, health equipment, masks, and donated clothing. This year’s bags will include materials to keep the homeless warm during the winter but will also focus on providing food and water to those who need it the most.

Due to the outreach the past couple of years of you all reaching out to lend support, this year I will reach out and ask for volunteers. Those who are willing can reach out to me and request a number of bags. I’ll deliver them to you so you can pass them out to those who need them in your community.

Thanks for your help.