The week reminds us that millions of individuals and families struggle with hunger and homelessness, often hidden from public view. Focusing on these challenges highlights the need for compassion, understanding and action.

Advocacy for those in need is essential because it helps break down the stigma associated with hunger and homelessness. These problems affect people from all walks of life, including children, veterans and the elderly. It is our responsibility to ensure they have access to the resources and support they need to regain stability.

During Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, active participation by community members is not only encouraged; it is vital. We need you to join us at local events, volunteer at shelters, donate food and basic toiletries, and support organizations tackling these pressing issues.

Together, we can work towards solutions that create a fairer society. By getting involved, we promote a culture of empathy and action that can make a deep and lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors. Let us be united in our efforts to fight hunger and homelessness in our community, knowing that our collective actions can bring hope and change.

Here is a list of the activities that will take place during the week:

November 18, wear “Orange,” which symbolizes hope and support for those facing food insecurity.

November 19, join us for the annual Walk for Hope – 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (departing from Kenosha Human Development Services, 3536 52nd Ave., to Shalom Center, 4314 39th Ave., a distance of 0.7 miles). Aurora Healthcare is sponsoring this walk.

Nov. 20, Wellness Day at the Hope Hub Shalom Center Community Resource Center (4314 39th Ave., use door #4). Stop by between 8:30am and 11:30am for a health check with our partners at Aurora Healthcare.

Nov. 21, “Company Training” led by Anya Gordon, Manager of Faith and Health Partnerships at Advocate Health, Wisconsin; this companion workshop provides an opportunity to encourage one another through five core spiritual practices. Training takes place between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Places are limited and registration is required. To sign up, visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/w6j73va.

On November 21st we will also present a documentary screening of the film “Beyond the Bridge, A Solution for Homelessness” which will be held at Kenosha Human Development Services, 3536 52nd Ave., at 3:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served. on November 22. , wear “purple” as a form of awareness and solidarity for people experiencing homelessness.

The Shalom Center will be collecting non-perishable food items throughout the week to help stock our shelves. Your donations between 8:30 am and 3:30 pm, by using door #5, are crucial in this fight.

For more information about Hunger and Homelessness Week and how you can get involved, email [email protected] or call 262-658-1713. Ending hunger and homelessness requires each of us. Our compassion, action and commitment can affect countless lives.