Introduction

https://docs.google.com/a/scu.edu/file/d/0B3dPHTOpkIhTay1qajd2dEFELXM/edit

The Homeless and the needy have always been a part of civilization, but what sets societies apart is how these people are treated and dealt with. Many see the needy as scary, untrustworthy, and lazy. People want to help, but all they see are families who abuse welfare and homeless who only want to buy drugs and refuse to get a job. This is not because they are bad people; their behaviors are a function of the assistance we provide. Frightened by the stereotypes we created, people interact with these needy people superficially, throwing them cash, clothes, and food. There are so many organizations out there that help out the needy and homeless but not enough people know about how life changing they can be. One of the many organizations is actually operating right here in downtown San Jose.

With 4034 homeless, San Jose has the largest homeless population by far in Santa Clara County. How do they deal with this? Sacred Heart Community Service’s vision is to create a united community where it is free from poverty. It is located in an area designated by the county as a child poverty zone serving hundreds of people daily.  Over 57, 000 people are helped every year here regarding meeting basic needs of families such as food, housing, clothing, and education programs. Most adults work in an area where the annual average family income is $85,000 a year and there family’s income is less than $20000.  Here anybody can receive help regardless your “age, ancestry, color, national origin, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, disability, medical conditions, or veteran status.” [1]

Sacred Heart Community Service is located in an area where many homeless live nearby. Their mission is to create change within the community through numerous programs offered. If you are in a position where you need services or simply just want to volunteer I would love to give you a tour of this wonderful organization.

My name is Christelle Lorenzana, a volunteer here at Sacred Heart. First I would like to walk you to outside of the Sacred Heart Community Service Center. As you can see there is never any parking. The parking is mainly for those who come for help. Volunteers are asked to park on the side of streets, which usually end up being blocks away. The lines to receive food and clothing are always long and sometimes end up going as far into the streets. People of all backgrounds come daily. Some people look like your average everyday person. You would never guess that some of these people were homeless or on the verge of becoming homeless. Other people live in the streets and are in deep need of help.