How to help people who are houseless this winter
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With colder weather approaching, it’s important to be a friend to the community especially towards those who are houseless. We’ve gathered some places and things you can do that will help a person in need.
Be a Blessing
Be a Blessing Birmingham’s mission is to help our houseless neighbors. Be on the lookout for any events they may be hosting by following their Facebook.
You’re welcome to volunteer. Be a Blessing will be giving out care packages and hosting occasional meals, so our houseless neighbors can stay warm and full.
Downtown Jimmie Hale Mission
Jimmie Hale brings hope to houseless people through recovery, spirituality and mental services. They have active recovery services and learning centers that help people get back on track.
You can help Jimmie Hale get to their goal of giving 9,000 meals this winter. Give the gift of inspiration!
One Warm Coat
One Warm Coat is a coat drive that gives people coats and blankets so they can keep warm this winter. Donate a new or gently worn coat at Eddie Bauer The Outlet Shops of Grand River and you can get $10 off your purchase in the store.
- Location: 6200 Grand River Blvd E, Suite 118-G Leeds AL 35094
Birmingham Mutual Aid
What’s mutual aid? Basically, it’s the practice of caring for your community. Stay up to date on how to donate, volunteer and help your neighbors by following Birmingham Mutual Aid on social.
One of the things to help houseless people is by donating $5 to Birmingham Mutual Aid’s non-perishable food pantry. Every dollar creates an impact!
Food Banks
There are loads of food banks across Alabama that serve the community. Here are a few food banks you can bring non-perishable (canned veggies + tuna, pasta, peanut butter, etc.):
- Fight hunger by donating or volunteering with Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.
- Birmingham AIDS Outreach takes care of people by putting their wellbeing first.
- Donate to Serving You. They provide affordable housing, health and nutrition and crisis relief for our community.
- East Lake United Method offers a food co-op where you can donate or grab anything you need. Find them here.
Where to go if it’s freezing out
If you find yourself in need of transitional housing, you can visit these shelters around Birmingham. It’s free and they’ll provide you with the services you need.
- Athenia House: 201 Finley Avenue West, Birmingham, AL 35201
- Birmingham PATH Center: 409 21st Street N Birmingham, AL 35203
- Fellowship House: 1625 12th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35205
BONUS: How you can get a food box from the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.
Have a food bank or shelter you want to include? Let us know by tagging us @bhamnow.
