"The homeless are the homeless poor, homeless retired and the homeless working. They are not beggars, thieves or of a color of a race or of a gender. The only time we should ever look down on them is when we are helping them up. They are young, old and tiny children. They are human. They are God's beloved. They are proud. They have hopes, dreams, moms and dads, brothers and sisters. They opened their world and lives and what they call a home to me. Because of them and this weekend my heart will never be homeless again." - Terry E
"It was an eye opening experience to how many people are in need of basic necessities and how something so simple to us means the world to them (food, water, a place to sleep, feeling safe and so much more). I really enjoyed the experience and would do it again! Now to take what we experienced and learned and help those in our community." - Mel D
"I think the trip overall really opened my eyes to see those who are homeless/ in poverty. It was a great experience to help those people and I would encourage everyone to go on the next Urban Plunge!" - Rachel T
"You know we are all blessed, right? And I think we should all take time each day to stop and be thankful," said one man eating dinner at St. Ben.
"No, thank you! I don't need that much food right now. Please give my extra to someone else who needs it more," said one young man as he walked through the food pantry with me.
"Let me tell you my story.... each one of the struggles in my life has taught me to have more faith... thank you for listening," said one Veteran. (I think he could have easily talked for a many more hours!)
"Even when all seems hopeless, I keep moving.....I will not give up!" said a woman who shared her incredible life journey with our group.