You've already taken your first step by reading this book. You've discovered
that the homeless are more than the steriotypical drifter, drunk, or bum. A
homeless person may be someone with a job, a runaway kid, a member of your
family, or you yourself.
You may already know the homeless in your community by sight. You may have
spoken to them and know their names. Or you might never have noticed them at
all. One of the first steps in helping people is to see them as individuals and
to find out what they need.
Notice them; talk to them. Most are starved for attention. And contact you
local religious centers, social service agencies, or town hall to find the
programs in your community that aid the homeless. (Many national organizations are listed in
the back of this book.)
Don't be afraid to reach out--or to pass along what you have learned to
others. You can start by sharing this book with a friend.