Homelessness Knows No Season

That was quite the heatwave last week. Trying to get ready for work amid the 80 and near 90 degree heat, I realized I owned nothing even seemingly professional that would suffice in that weather.

Looking beyond my own needs, and comforts I thought about our guests at St. Anthony Foundation. So often, especially in our moderate San Francisco climate, we only think of the winter as a time to be concerned about clothing, about shelter, and the effects of severe weather.  However, homelessness and poverty do not discriminate based on the season.   St. Anthony’s services, especially our Clothing and Housewares Program, Social Work Center and Free Medical Clinic, are just as busy during the summer months.

Guests that come through the Clothing and Housewares Program are looking not only for work clothes, but for clothes that will protect them in weather on either side of the thermometer.  Summer months present health concerns of their own as well. Dehydration, heat stroke and malnourishment are a few of the health risks that the Clinic sees during these months that if left untreated can develop into critical health problems.  And, in these hotter months, utilities, rent and food do not get any cheaper.  Our Social Work Center, is still just as busy helping connect guests to the supportive services they need to maintain their benefits, access emergency food, and find housing.

Although images of charity in our minds may be focused on snow falling and holidays, in reality we can all find ways to help year round to bring more stability to those in need.