A Beacon of Hope for the Homeless

By Rick Baker, Ronnie Duncan and Robert Lynch, Special to the Times

Published December 25, 2007

This year on Christmas and New Year's Eve, many homeless will have a place to rest their heads thanks to an amazing partnership among a county, cities and a charitable outreach. Since its opening, Pinellas Hope has provided safe ground for more than 200 women and men each night and will continue to do so until the end of April.

For Christians, Christmas is all about homelessness. Joseph and Mary had to settle for a cave on a cold night. Soon, according to the Gospel accounts, they would have to settle for illegal immigrant status as well, as one ruler's jealousy forced them to flee into Egypt and hide from the authorities.

Perhaps it is with this historical precedent in mind that so many people have stepped forward to assist in myriad ways with Pinellas Hope. Originally, it was felt that only one meal per day could be provided. Interested citizens have come forward to offer breakfast and lunch to those who must remain throughout the day. All manner of necessities of life have been donated by businesses and individuals to assist those living in hope to await the dawning of another and possibly better day.

Pinellas Hope is not a perfect solution to the challenge of caring for the homeless in Pinellas County. That was never promised. But Pinellas Hope has challenged the heart of a larger community more than ever imagined and that community has responded with compassion and support. The goal of Pinellas Hope is to find permanent housing for its temporary occupants and sustainable jobs that will offer a modicum of self-respect. There is no happier moment for the community gathered on 126th Avenue N than when one or more of the residents leave for good for permanent housing or a job.

There are still bumps and ruts in the road to self-sufficiency to be negotiated, resolved, settled. Organizers of Pinellas Hope learn something new every day and changes and modifications of the plan are required. But this Christmas and New Year's Eve, one thing can be taken to the bank. There is a star shining in the sky which offers hope to the homeless and can lead them to a better life. Our thanks to all who made Pinellas Hope possible.

Rick Baker is the mayor of St. Petersburg, Ronnie Duncan is a Pinellas County commissioner and Robert Lynch is bishop of the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg.