Letter: Come together to get the work done

Dear Editor:

2010 saw PUSH members involved in large numbers in efforts throughout the county to ameliorate current conditions for our homeless neighbors, advocate for comprehensive solutions and reach out to numerous faith based and civic organizations with education presentations.

There are ideological issues that have divided us, a group which has always been somewhat diverse yet fully united in serving those who are homeless, jobless and hungry.

We’ve seen some members leave and new ones sign on and to date, there have been no major issues at the new serving site at Bridge and Granada, with numbers served averaging 40-50 during the week and 70-100 on Sundays, depending on weather. More young people and families with children are being served.

PUSH has made a conscious effort to reach out to other agencies and build and strengthen bonds to get the work done. This has caused consternation with some who feel stronger action is needed.

We need to remember the mission statement and goals adopted by PUSH at its founding and modified last year to include the underemployed, impoverished and working poor:

P.U.S.H. was formed in January 2007 as a result of citizens’ discontent at the inability and apparent unwillingness of local government to coordinate and utilize all the many resources available in St. Johns County to address the homeless population in the area.

We are resolved to advocate for the impoverished, working poor, unemployed and homeless at the city, county and state levels.

We will provide awareness and action through education and outreach activities.

We will assist in providing liaison between various agencies, churches and nonprofit organizations.

We will work to ensure that any solution to homelessness comprises full services: basic human needs such as dignity, food, clothing, shelter and additional assistance including but not limited to medical and dental care, mental health and substance abuse treatment, job training and child care.

It’s what we were about back in 07′ and it’s what we are still about now.

Opportunities exist all the time for advocacy, hands on volunteering, speaking to your groups and supporting other efforts.

2011 is going to be a great challenge for all of us but especially our neighbors on the edge.

May we all put aside our differences and come together to get the work done.

As always, my gratitude and appreciation for all you do, all year long.

Mary Lawrence, Founder
People United to Stop Homelessness