Help a Homeless Family Member

Homelessness is always a tragedy, but it can overwhelming when it's a family member whose fallen on hard times.

Never mind the causes of homelessness, here's some advice on helping the homeless help themselves.

Steps

 * 1)  Find shelter. Most cities will have a variety of programs, and it will pay to check around. Some shelters have waiting lists, some are safer and more comfortable than others. Call around and talk to the intake managers. Check with the Salvation Army, local churches, or homeless services in your phone book.
 * 2)  Get a prepaid cell phone. These help the homeless arrange for transportation, make appointments, secure employment, and contact help agencies.
 * 3)  Put together a list of helpful information. Include community free-health clinics, bus routes, soup kitchens, and any other services that are available.  Public libraries will often have internet access which can also be helpful.
 * 4)  Secure a next-of-kin registry. Most towns with homeless services will have one that can help with this.
 * 5)  Look for a program that offers employment assistance and transitional housing.

Tips

 * Check with your minister or a church group to see what shelters and programs they recommend.

Warnings

 * Some shelters only admit new intakes during certain hours, and many have a curfew at which time you must be inside in order to stay the evening.

Things You'll Need

 * Bus route maps, prepaid cell phone, personal grooming items, contact information for soup kitchens and public services.

Related Tips and Steps

 * How to Deal With a Genuinely Stupid, Mean Mother As a Teen
 * How to Balance Your Family Life While Building Your Internet Business
 * How to Keep Relationships Healthy Within Your Family
 * How to Get Your Family to Stop Always Criticizing You