In 1993, when Connie and I first accepted the call to oversee Inner City Mission of Springfield, Illinois, we believed—as many do—that fixing homelessness was just a matter of helping people through difficult situations. The only thing that these folks would need, we thought at the time, is a helping hand, a house and a job—and then everything would be fine. Years of working with the homeless, however, has given us a whole new perspective.
Yes, the homeless need a helping hand, and yes, they need safe shelter and possibly a job. But what they need most goes so much deeper, wider and higher than any of this which is why we’ve dedicated this website to spotlight the deeper issues of homelessness.
- What are the true causes of homelessness?
- What does every person on this planet need to maintain stability in life?
- What is the best approach to use to help someone out of homelessness?
- What can God’s people, the Body of Christ, do to help?
Before you explore and read the answers to these questions, take a moment to pray for God’s leading and insight as you seek to learn more about homelessness. Our desire is that you will see firsthand how God’s love transforms the lives of hurting souls and that you will be inspired by the stories of renewal and hope.
We’d love to have you become a part of our ministry to the homeless. May God greatly bless you as you bless others.
Scott Payne, a Minister to the Homeless