Thrive Walk

Florida Department of Education conducted a survey in 2017 for all counties in the state, and as of February 24, the total children attending school in Alachua County who were homeless equaled 785.

The numbers were categorized according to the following living situations:

Emergency or transitional shelter - 114
Sharing housing or "doubling-up" - 563
Cars, parks, public places, campgrounds, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train station - 34
Motels - 62
Awaiting Foster Care Placement - 12

UHY is an Unaccompanied Homeless child or youth, not in physical custody of a parent or legal guardian.

In Alachua County Schools there are the following UHY's:
Kindergarten through 12th grade - 134
9th through 12th grade - 93

While I knew there were children who were homeless, I was still surprised by these numbers. I have met teenagers out on the street and met young single moms with toddlers and it is heartbreaking to know what potential harm may come to them.

Teacher friends, be diligent in observing your children. There are agencies that can help these families with rapid rehousing and aid for food.

When you tuck your children in tonight, will you join me in saying a prayer of thanks for your family and then add a prayer of safety for these children?

"Don't you see that children are God's best gift?"
Psalm 127:3

We have been blessed by so many different groups of people who have come out to serve!
It's exciting to see children participating, knowing that at an early age they are learning that God's love is an action, not measured by church attendance or tithing. We express God's love by the way we treat others. Simple.

If your family or group would like to serve, consider some of the following:

Donations of items to make our bags (peanut butter, Jam, ziplock bags, brown lunch bags, cookies, chips, peanut butter crackers)

Donations of Bottled Water

Collect clothing and shoes to be distributed

Pray for our group as we serve

Pray for those we serve

Private message me with any questions. We'd love to have you join us on Tuesday nights at 6. We meet at the Clock Tower across from Bo Diddley Plaza.

"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing so some people have entertained angels without knowing it."
Hebrews 13:2

"Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." James 2:15-17

Looking for a way to serve?
Here are some suggestions:
1. Pray for our group as we are on the streets serving the homeless community.
2. Come serve with us. All you need is a happy smile and love for your fellow man.
3. Donate items that are needed for the meals.
4. Consider collecting items for us to distribute during this cold weather season (jackets, socks, wool hats, gloves, blankets)

Thank you for supporting us with your prayers!