Homeless population is increasing daily

Dear Editor:

Do you have images reeling through your mind of what homelessness looks like?

Are they of the young, old, uneducated, who are dirty and alone?

Actually, the picture of the homeless population is much more diverse. Teenagers, veterans, professors, doctors, policemen, mothers, fathers, businessmen, the elderly and even children are finding themselves with no one to turn to. This population is growing daily, particularly, due to the recent financial crisis in this country. I personally know people who are losing their homes and jobs in this county and country. This issue seems so much more real because we actually know the people affected by homelessness.

Just think about this for a moment: What about all of those we do not know personally who enter the doors of a homeless shelter every day in our community and our state?

I am writing this commentary to help educate the wonderful citizens of Cherokee County about a shelter in our community that rescues those who are homeless or are victims of domestic abuse.

Miracle Hills Ministry — Harbor of Hope opened its doors in 2000. With the support of so many incredibly generous and loving individuals this facility has filled more than 84,000 beds and taken in more than 1,500 men, women and children.

The loving staff accepts them unconditionally from Cherokee County and the Upstate. Because there are no other emergency shelters, the Harbor has truly been a fiber of Hope to many.

I am not only impressed by the shelter's ability to receive these individuals unconditionally, but the staff's willingness to help restore and renew these hurting people. They do this through means of food, shelter, compassion and presenting the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I have personally been honored to serve on the board of the Harbor and have volunteered to serve on the fundraising advisory board for five years. I know my gifts are serving, giving, organizing, and fundraising. There's a lot of time and hard work involved in raising money and awareness. I am by no means ringing my bell. I am indeed asking this community to get involved in whatever capacity you can — whether it be literally giving a dollar or ten or a hundred or a thousand.

Better yet, go to the Harbor and answer the phones, cook or serve a meal once in a while. If your gift is speaking or cleaning a pantry — so be it. People — wake up and look around at all those who are in need. Please — just get involved. Except by the grace of God it could be any of us walking through those doors. My husband and I are donors to this vital work at the Harbor of Hope - Miracle Hills and believe in what they do.

We are so richly blessed, but that doesn't mean we don't have difficulties. We are assured as Christians there will be trials. But I also know God expects much from us. Would you please make a pledge with us this season to the Harbor of Hope - Miracle Hills Ministry to be a sponsor or make some type of contribution? Please give from the heart what you feel God would have you to do. I promise you would be reaching out to so many who will be needing a refuge this season and throughout the year.

We would also ask you to join us at the annual Miracle Hills-Cherokee County Banquet to be held Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Broad River Electric.

Let the Harbor know how you can help. Call (864) 488-0376. You will find that you receive the greater blessing when you extend your hand to help others. God Bless. Mrs. Debbie McIntosh, Dr. Donald McIntosh Board Member - Advisory Board