Earlier today I followed Shane in a car fully loaded with blankets and watched him distribute them to the homeless people in the city of Spokane. Some of them ran toward the car as we parked, hoping to be the first of anything Shane is handing out. They recognized the car from the many trips he made. He is certainly a friendly figure, many came forward with big smiles and happy Shane remembered them. Some unfortunately were zoned out but they weren’t forgotten. Shane made sure they too get blankets to weather the cold winter here.
On the outskirt of the city, lives a woman who has been living in a tent with 6 other people for the past 3 months. She was burning wood scraps from pallets and anything she can get her hands on. Smoke was coming out from the makeshift tent and Shane found her roasting a small piece of ham. She was using a metal dustpan as a griddle. She politely told Shane she was doing well and would appreciate a blanket if he had one.
I haven’t been out with Shane amongst the homeless people since Covid-19 as I’m high risk. Staying put in the car and watching Shane in action communicating with these folks is always a humbling experience for me. There is respectful conduct. Some would say they have eaten and point to others who haven’t. The same when blankets are offered. At this moment, we are buying these blankets with our funds. Moving blankets are the best and they are sturdy.
Please let Shane and I know if you have spare blankets or jackets you like to donate. Anything helps.