How to Minister to Women in Homeless Shelters

Contact your local shelter to minister to homeless women.

In times of recession, during which job opportunities are relatively scarce, the rate of homeless families and homeless women increases. Many homeless shelters have no choice but to establish waiting lists, limiting the number of women they allow to use their services. Volunteers and those who wish to minister to women in homeless shelters are often welcomed by both the shelter operators and the homeless women finding haven there.

Things You'll Need

• Contact information for shelters
• Gifts
• Resources list

Instructions

1. Locate and contact a nearby homeless shelter or women's shelter. Explain who you are and how you would like to get involved. Be sure to mention that you are interested in ministering to women. Many shelters have volunteer screenings, mandatory orientations and volunteer applications.

2. Visit the shelter to observe. Ask other volunteers and staff members about the needs of women at the shelter. Very often, women will need simple and practical things such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, toiletries and winter clothes, if applicable. Prepare gift packages for your next visit, if desired. Also ask about the spiritual and emotional needs of the women. With what do they struggle? For what do they need prayer How open are they to ministers such as yourself?

3. Compile a list of resources you can offer to the women you meet, including physical needs, resources and spiritual help. The list may include things like information on how to find affordable housing and child care, information on job training and schooling, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, prayer or counseling sessions, group meetings and prevention programs and facilities.

4. Set up repeating visits to the shelter. Meeting regularly with the women there may help you build a relationship with them, making them more ready to accept what you have to offer. As you build friendships, be sure to minister by talking about daily progress, emotional struggles and successes and spiritual states of mind. Practice being a good listener and a cheerful helper.

Tips & Warnings

• Be wise about how you approach the women you are trying to help. Try not to appear too pushy or offensive when offering help, information or gifts.

References

• The Washington Post; Help for Homeless Women; June 16, 2006
• Love Wins Ministries: Tips on Ministering to the Homeless
• Ibiblio: Homeless Women

Resources

• Homeless Shelter Directory