IMPACT 2022: Homeless in Birmingham

By Joel Franks

This year, IMPACT is getting a head start. We have an opportunity to bless the homeless population in Birmingham during the National Convention in July, but we need you to get involved now. While in Birmingham, we want to provide a substantial population of homeless people with a “care kit” that demonstrates the love of Christ in action through us.

What can go into a homeless care kit that will be helpful to a person in need? The following list is specifically created from the requests of the homeless population in Birmingham:

• Socks (most requested)
  

• Water bottle
  

• Bandages (especially large adhesive bandages)
  

• Wet wipes
  

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
  

• Sunscreen
  

• Tuna and cracker packs
  

• Single-serving snacks (trail mix, nuts, crackers)
  

• Breakfast or protein bars (avoid chocolate, which melts in the heat)
  

• Nail clippers
  

• Comb and brush
  

• Hand lotion
  

• Lip balm
  

• Tissues
  

• Headlamp
  

• Flashlight
  

• Can opener
  

• Quarters for laundry
  

• Sewing kit
  

• First aid kit
  

• Ziploc bags

Items to avoid include soap, hand sanitizer, mouthwash, anything with fragrance, large items. Soap, because anywhere they can get a shower offers soap. Hand sanitizer and mouthwash because they often contain alcoholic content, and this is not a good idea for potential or recovering addicts. Fragrance, because it is insulting and many people have sensitivities. Large items, because they are difficult to carry.

Start with a nice zipper plastic bag. Why the zipper? The regular types tend to stop sealing after opening and closing a few times. Spend the extra change to purchase the nice ones. The person who receives this will get a bonus reusable bag to store important personal effects after they use the items from the care kit.

Please take a moment to write a note by hand. This shows you care, just like a hand-written thank you note, hand-written invitations, or anything else. Don’t put a tract inside. Most recipients view those like junk mail. One glance tells you what it is, and it gets tossed. Instead, write why you are giving this care kit—that you love, care for, and value the recipient. Include a Bible verse and let them know you will be praying for the person who receives your kit. This will go much further than a tract requiring zero effort.

Your church or youth group can start gathering items and assemble these packs before shipping them to the North American Ministries office. If you cannot purchase and assemble the items yourself, why not consider a donation. Find a PayPal link on the IMPACT page (fwbmastersmen.org/impact) that will allow you to donate funds toward the purchase of care kit items. These items will be purchased and the kits assembled in Birmingham to avoid shipping costs.

Please help us make an IMPACT on Birmingham with the love of Christ.

About the Author: Joel Franks is IMPACT coordinator for the 2022 convention. IMPACT is a ministry of Masters Men: www.fwbmastersmen.org.