01 19 2011 by Street Sense Media

Volume 8: Issue 6 January 19 - February 1, 2011

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Read more and get involved at www.streetsense.org | The D.C. Metro Area Street Newspaper | Please buy from badged vendors

LIFE ON THE SUNNY SIDE Sunny Anderson brings healthy eating tips to homeless women

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A Van c provi ouver serv der b ice ri beau ty to ngs their home less comm unity

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Street Sense aims to serve as a vehicle for elevating voices and public debate on issues relating to poverty while also creating economic opportunities for people who are experiencing homelessness in our community.

From the Executive Director

News in Brief

4 Food Network Star Cooks for N Street Village

Foundation creates scholarship fund for local teens

Bread for the City Opens a New Clinic Pics & Poems

8-9 online

Read all stories online at www.streetsense.org

10-11

College Students live on the Street for the Annual Homeless Challenge

online

Read our blog at Streetsense.org/blog

Jeff McNeil: Tips from a Businessperson Last Word: A message

16 from the woman behind vendor profiles

A new issue comes out every two weeks, but you can stay connected to Street Sense every day! /streetsense @streetsensedc /streetsensedc

Reimagining Success

By Douglas Knight Executive Director

y Aunt Patty and Uncle Roy are two of the coolest people I know. They are pillars of our family, proud of their kids and most of all, their new grandchild (Hi, Leah!) But what makes them extra special to me is their ability to take ideas and make them real. They have this amazing ability to reimagine things like family events, and make sure the next one is even more inviting and special than the last. Reimagining is one of those exercises that can be hard to do in the face of the “reality” that we confront each day, with bills to be paid, kids to get to school, and the work that never seems to never end. But how about trying to reimagine the way we confront the day-to-day challenges, here at Street Sense. I am really proud of our team. We have a small, dedicated group: four staffers and many fantastic volunteers and interns who manage to deliver the very best services we can offer to our vendors. Our support from you, the public, is tremendously appreciated. We have built upon this support to create a strong program, impacting lives and assisting the community’s growth. Now, imagine what we could do with a little more. We could dare to be greater; reimagine our successes, as for our challenges too, maybe we could move them to the success column. With over 6,000 homeless community members here in Washington, there are many more we could help with our program. Just think what might happen if a few new corporations and their employees challenged one another and joined our team of partners and elevated our capacity to support more vendors, more training programs, more outreach. Can you reimagine our success today, say, ten-fold? Can you see it? I can. Our challenge is what so many of us in this sector face: the need for greater financial capacity to more fully serve our community. Is it challenging to meet this

need, especially in this current state of our economy? Sure it is. But take a moment and imagine our successes here at Street Sense. Now reimagine those successes with you involved. Now with you and your company involved. Pretty impressive, huh? I can imagine that. That’s my two cents.

Join Street Sense at Busboys and Poets this Sunday, January 23rd from 7 p.m for an evening of poetry.This first Open Mic of 2011 will feature guests including poets from Street Sense $5 Suggested Donation Busboys and Poets @ 5th & K (1025 5th Street NW, DC)

ADDRESS 1317 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005 PHONE (202) 347 - 2006 FAX (202) 347 - 2166 E-MAIL info@streetsense.org WEB streetsense.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS Lisa Estrada, Ted Henson, Brad Scriber, Michael Stoops, Manas Mohapatra, Sommer Mathis, Kristal Dekleer, Robin Heller, Jeffery McNeil, Jordan Rummel, John Snellgrove, Dameon Philpotts EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Doug Knight EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mary Otto MANAGING EDITOR/NEW MEDIA DIRECTOR Lisa V. Gillespie COMM. DEVELOPMENT & PROGRAM MANAGER Amy Vokes VOLUNTEERS/WRITERS Rhonda Brown, Holly Caesar, Margaret Chapman, Tracie Ching, James Clarke, Nikki Conyers, Bobby Corrigan, Carol Cummings, Adam Dangelo, Sara Dimmitt, Joe Duffy, Rachel Estabrook, Sarah Ficenec, Robert Fulton, Andrew Gena, Steve Gilberg, Jane Goforth, Rhonda Green, Adam Kampe, Roberta Haber, Elia Herman, Trisha Knisely, Vicki Ann Lancaster, Elle Leech-Black, Lisa Leona, Sean Lishansky, Elsie Oldaker, Whitney Nelson, Katinka Podmaniczky, Mike Plunkett, Willie Schatz, Jesse Smith, Mandy Toomey, Brett Topping, Ellen Gilmer, Diana Heitz, Jane Cave VENDORS Michael Anderson, Charles Armstrong, Jake Ashford, Lawrence Autry, Daniel Ball, Donna Barber, John Bayne, Kenneth Belkosky, Patricia Benjamin, Tommy Bennett, Jimmy Bigelow, Reginald Black, Emily Bowe, Debora Brantley, Andre Brinson, Floarea Caldaras, Percy Carter, Peggy Cash, Conrad Cheek, Simona Ciurar, Virginia Clegg, Aaron Conner, Theresa Corbino, Avram Cornel, Anthony Crawford, Kwayera Dakari, Louise Davenport, Charles Davis, James Davis, David Denny, Ricardo Dickerson, Muriel Dixon, Alvin Dixon El, Deana Elder, Richard Embden, James Featherson, Tanya Franklin, Samuel Fullwood, Larry Garner, David Ger, R. George, Marcus Green, Barron Hall, Dwight Harris, John Harrison, Lorrie Hayes, Patricia Henry, Shakaye Henry, Shawn Herring, Derian Hickman, Philliip Howard, James Hughes, Richard Hutson, Margaret Jenkins, Donald Johnson, Alicia Jones, Mark Jones, Clinton Kilpatrick, Hope Lassiter, Brenda Lee-Wilson, Mary Lisenko, James Lott, Michael Lyons, Johnnie Malloy, Kina Mathis, John C. Matthews, Charlie Mayfield, Herman Lee Mayse, Robert McCray, Marvin McFadden, Jermale McKnight, Jennifer McLaughlin, Jeffery McNeil, Kenneth Middleton, L. Morrow, Saleem Muhammad, Tyrone Murray, Charles Nelson, Sammy Ngatiri, Evelyn Nnam, Moyo Onibuje, Franklin Payne, Edward Perry, Gregory Phillips, Tracey Powell, Frank Pruden, Ash-Shaheed Rabbil, Michael Reardon, Melania Scott, Chris Shaw, Ronald Simms, J. Simpson, Veda Simpson, Gwynette Smith, Patty Smith, Franklin Sterling, Warren Stevens, James Stewart, Leroy Studevant, Beverly Sutton, Paul Taylor Sybil, Taylor, Steve Thomas, Larissa Thompson, Louise Thundercloud, Deborah Tibbs, Ronald Turner, Christopher Walker, Jeanette Walker, Martin Walker, Robert Warren, Lawless Watson, Paul Watson, Michael J. Welsh, Edna Williams, Sherle Williams, Wendell Williams, Susan Wilshusen, Ivory Wilson, Mark Wolf, Charles Woods, Tina Wright

STREET SENSE January 19 - February 1, 2011

Homeless Man Rescued from Garbage Truck The Associated Press reports that Dallas emergency personnel had to use ladders and ropes to help a homeless man caught in the back of a garbage truck. Investigators believe that the man was sleeping in a Dumpster when a trashhauling vehicle came by to empty it. The injured homeless man was taken to a Dallas-area hospital, though officials did not release further details on his condition. Temperatures in Dallas slipped into the 40s on Monday, a reason investigators say the man many have sought refuge in the Dumpster.

HUD Secretary says Homelessness can End In an op-ed published in DelawareOnline.com, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan argues that the Obama administration can end homelessness. The secretary wrote, “The President and the new Congress face two important deficits – the country’s budget deficit, and a trust deficit that leads many to be skeptical that the Federal government has the ability to solve big, important problems. On the

NEWS IN BRIEF issue of homelessness, we can start to tackle both. This week, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is awarding $1.4 billion to help more than 7,000 communities fight homelessness on the local level. For years, federal support has helped communities provide safe havens for those with severe health conditions or mental illness, aid in job training and placement, and find the transitional and permanent homes they need to start rebuilding their lives. But 2011 promises to be different.” The full opinion piece can be found at DelawareOnline.com.

Calif. School Raises $26K to Help Homeless Students Montclair High School, in the San Bernadino region of California, has about 372 homeless students, up from 155 in the 2009-’10 school year. To help draw attention to the growing issue of homelessness among students, MontClair students and staff members hosted a 5K race, the San Bernardino County Sun reports. What students and teachers alike didn’t expect, was the huge outpouring of donations, which when all were counted, amounted to more than $26,000. The funds will be used to help homeless

students and their families meet basic needs. “I had a student who is embarrassed and his pride is kicking in, but I said no one is above this, it’s just the situation it is,” said Amahl Thomas, who teaches U.S. history and ethnic studies, to the County Sun. Currently, the district in total has more than 1,000 homeless students.

Rhode Island Senate Continues to Debate Homeless Issues The Boston Globe reports that a state Senate committee in Rhode Island is moving forward with a series of hearings about finding solutions to homelessness. The Senate Committee on Housing and Municipal Government is scheduled to hold its second hearing on the topic on Thursday at the Statehouse. Sen. John J. Tassoni, chairman of the committee, has said he wants the state to find long-term solutions that help the homeless sustain themselves, the Globe reports. Among those expected to testify are the president of the homeless shelter Crossroads Rhode Island, a program director for the Mental Health Association of Rhode Island and the head of United Way, Rhode Island, according to the

Globe.

Warming Shelter Closer to Opening in Wisconsin A warming shelter for the homeless in Oshkosh, Wis., is closer to becoming a reality, organizers say, but it may not be until next winter when the facility is put to use, the Northwestern reports. The lower level cafeteria beneath the gymnasium at Most Blessed Sacrament Parish at its St. Peter Parish site on High Avenue is an option being looked at for the warming shelter, said Tina Haffeman to the Northwestern, of Oshkosh ESTHER, a faith-based justice organization that has studied the local need for a shelter. “It’s the best facility and location we’ve been offered so far,” she said. “There have been other offers, but they have fallen through.” Haffeman and other homeless advocates aim to have the shelter running as soon as possible, but adds that the homeless do have other options in the area. “We’re also using the advice of warming shelters that are in other communities, but every community needs to take care of its own,” Haffeman told the Northwestern.

Every homeless person has a name, a story and a hope for something better. David came to Street Sense in March 2009 to work, write and support the homeless.

David

writes poems regularly in Street Sense about love and his experiences being homeless. He hopes to one day get a job that pays a living wage so he can afford his own apartment.

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Left, Chef/Host of Cooking for Real Sunny Anderson signs autographs for N Street Village clients and guests after her cooking demonstration. Right, Scripps Networks Corporate Communications Senior Vice President Cindy McConkey, N Street Village President Mary Funke and Anderson meet at N Street Village. TRACY CECIL, N STREET VILLAGE

Inspring Women with a lot on Their Plates By Ellen Gilmer Volunteer Reporter Everything Lisa Adelakun knows about healthy cooking, she learned from a stranger on TV. The on-air inspiration taught her to halve her portion sizes, be choosy with cooking oil and—the hardest part—trade in fried chicken for baked chicken. Earlier this month, that motivating stranger became a new friend when Adelakun and the women of N Street Village learned to cook from Sunny Anderson, a rising Food Network star and host of the show “Cooking for Real.” Anderson, 35, visited Washington, D.C., two weeks ago to demonstrate healthy, budget-friendly recipes, give advice and meet with the more than 40 women in attendance. N Street Village serves more than 900 homeless and lowincome women per year, many of whom are transitioning to independent life. “If you worry about a struggle, it’s there so you can get to the next step,” Anderson told the group during a cooking demonstration. “You gotta go broke, you gotta lose friends, you gotta cut the haters—you have to do all of that to get to the next step. It’s hard because the next step is so good.” All of the advice rang true for Adelakun, who dropped more than 100

pounds—from 376 to 266—after gastric bypass surgery and a painfully strict diet, learning from Anderson’s show along the way. “My weight was a big problem for me,” she said. “I really didn’t like myself before.” She’s not alone. Obesity and related diseases are common in poor communities, due to low access to affordable nutritious foods and lack of education in healthy eating habits. “Obesity and diabetes are major health issues facing this nation,” said N Street Village President Mary Funke. “They are costly to our country, and affect communities and families everywhere, especially the women at risk we work with every day.” For women trying to get their lives on track, these health issues give rise to higher hurdles, including absences from work and pricey medical attention, Funke added. That’s a daily consideration for Laurie Williams, food services manager at N Street. Williams strives to offer food that is popular but healthy, and must develop a new menu each week, based on what food has been donated to the center. Williams and her staff serve between 70 and 120 women a day. Another of her considerations—healthy portion sizes—will be made easier by the

250 portion-controlled food trays donated by the Food Network. Anderson tailored her cooking demo to the group’s needs, opting for simple ingredients like green beans, potatoes and dark-meat chicken. The culinary magic is in the seasoning—garam masala, brown sugar, garlic and lemon juice, among others. Anderson encouraged the women to cook with whatever spices they preferred to make flavors pop. Budget shortcuts, she insisted, don’t have to result in unhealthy meals. As she cooked, Anderson told about growing up in a military family, joining the Air Force, working in radio and doggedly pursuing her own cooking show. Her mother had hypertension, and her grandfather died after struggling for years with diabetes. “Everything kind of hits home with me,” she said after the event. “Just the struggle of getting on your feet and finding out what you want to do with your life really spoke to me.” And she doesn’t take the chance to speak to the women lightly, “People are smart enough to know when somebody’s bullshitting them,” she said. “I think people know when you’re telling a story of growth and a story of struggle, when you’re telling the truth.” Anderson’s passion and sincerity were evident, said N Street Village resident

Brenda Douglas. Plus, “it’s just so good to see a star,” she said. Douglas has been staying at N Street for three months and hopes her time there will lay out a new beginning. Standing behind a stove and looking out into the audience, Anderson says she’s always trying to read people’s expressions and figure out the best way to connect with them. “When I’m looking at people when I’m talking, I’m thinking ‘What can I say to make it click? What can I say to get something outside of the cooking? How do I get to them?’” she said. “It’s not about just treating everyone like a number. … It’s figuring out the lifestyle changes that you need to be productive for the next phase. There’s something about the human condition that has some people that want more.” For Adelakun, the chance to meet Anderson was encouraging, giving her even more resolve to maintain her weight and continue on a path to healthy living. “For me, it’s an ongoing process,” she said. But in the kitchen she shares on the fourth floor at N Street Village, Adelakun promises to put Anderson’s recipes to the test. Because she knows some baked chicken and a little spice can go a long way.

STREET SENSE January 19 - February 1, 2011 Nine percent of D.C. high school freshmen will complete college within five years of graduating high school.

NEWS

Taking Their Posse to College

By J. Deveaux Volunteer Writer

Sixty-two Washington, D.C.-area high school seniors have been selected by the Posse Foundation to receive full-tuition scholarships to attend top colleges and universities beginning in fall 2011. The students, who were honored at a Jan 5 reception and awards ceremony at George Washington University, were chosen for their exceptional academic and leadership skills. Lisa Hubbard, one of five Posse scholars selected from Friendship Charter School in the District, said she hopes to be the first in her family to finish college. “When I get a degree I’m going to come back and motivate others in my community,” said Hubbard, who will attend Bucknell next fall. “I like that Posse gives you a chance, no matter where you come from.” Since 1989, the Posse Foundation has recruited and trained more than 3,100 outstanding young people from urban high schools and has sent them to partner colleges and universities. The scholars, however, are not asked to meet the challenges of college alone. Instead, they are sent off in supportive, multicultural teams or “posses” of 10 students. This year’s Posse students will receive more than $8 million in scholarship money to attend Bucknell University, Grinnell College, Lafayette College, Pepperdine University, Sewanee: The University of the South and the University of WisconsinMadison. In addition to the scholarship, students receive support from the foundation throughout their time at college. To help students like Hubbard make the transition to college, all Posse scholars will undergo intensive preparation over the next eight months to ensure they arrive on campus well prepared for academic work and student life. Founda-

Posse got to know me as a person, they to know you like a best friend Genevieve David, Posse recipient

From left to right, Posse staff Latrice Willis, James Hubert Blake High School recepient Joyce Bartlett, Ballou Senior High School recepient Terry Bennett and St. John’s College High School recepient Andrew Alikhani LAWRENCE HOWARD, STREET SENSE

tion officials say that such preparation has contributed to a 90 percent college graduation rate for Posse scholars. They contrast that with the fact that just nine percent of D.C. public school students who start high school currently graduate from college within five years according to a 2006 study commissioned by D.C. school officials. Lyndon Thweatt, a Posse alumnus who grew up in the District and now works in the communications department of Sodexo, a huge multinational food and facilities management company, said the support he received from the Posse Foundation helped him beat the odds, graduate from college and get started on a successful career. “They offer professional development programs that help prepare you for the work force and place you in internships and job opportunities,” says Thweatt, “to gain experience more so than money.” Both Thweatt and his high school buddy Nygel Knighton have stayed involved with the Posse Foundation since they graduated, mentoring younger students who have faced the same challenges they did, including Langston TinglingClemons, who credits their friendship with helping him complete his Bachelor’s degree from Bucknell University in 2010. In addition to D.C., Posse has offices

in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and New York City, which together have sent more than 3,100 students to college. Posse partner colleges and universities have awarded $334 million in four-year, full-tuition merit scholarships to participating students. “Posse’s incredible college and university partners are investing time, energy and resources in the promotion of equity in education and social justice. They believe in the intelligence, talent and dreams of young people who might not always show up on their radar screens, and are giving them a chance to excel,” said Paloma Garcia-Lopez, director, Posse D.C. Frank Sesno, Advisory Board chair for Posse D.C. and director of the George Washington School of Media & Public Affairs, noted that this year’s Posse scholars have “brought so much energy and enthusiasm to the program already, it’s easy to see how they will be leaders on campus. They personify the dynamism and diversity of the Washington area. It’s no exaggeration to say that the contributions they will make will help change the world.” Posse, which was one of ten organizations to receive a share of President Barack Obama’s $1.4 million Nobel Peace Prize winnings for its innovative work, got started because of an inner city student

who said “I never would have dropped out of college if I had my posse with me.” Shirley Bloomquist, a former teacher turned volunteer and mentor, said she feels that Posse helps translate student’s success in high school into further success in life. “These students have already proven that they are leaders. Those are the people that Posse looks for,” she said. “They look for students that will be leaders on campus.” 2011 awardee Terry Bennett said he felt like the Posse scholarship was made for him. He played football, basketball, football and track at Ballou Senior High School. “I knew I was capable of getting the scholarship,” he said. Another member of the Posse D.C. Advisory Board, Lydia Thomas said she was proud of the fact that the Posse Foundation has been able to provide for students like Terry for more than two decades. “Through Posse and its partner schools, over $8 million will be awarded to students in tuition to institutions like Pepperdine, Grinnell, and Lafayette,” said Thomas. “I’m going to Grinnell in Iowa,” said awardee Genevieve David. . “I just want to say that Posse really got to know me as a person,” she continued, “they get to know you like a best friend.”

Read Bread for the City’s blog at breadforthecity.blogspot.com

New Bricks for Bread for the City LAWRENCE HOWARD, STREET SENSE

By Lawrence Howard Volunteer Writer Friends, neighbors and supporters of Bread for the City gathered on January 7 to dedicate a sparkling, newly-expanded center that more than doubles the size of the nonprofit’s Northwest facility in the Shaw neighborhood. The center will greatly improve Bread for the City’s capacity to provide food, medical care, legal assistance, and comprehensive social services to tens of thousands of low-income D.C. residents, according to the nonprofit’s Executive Director George A. Jones, who spoke at the festive dedication ceremony. But completing the project was a challenge in such hard times. “We have been planning this expansion for many years, as the need in our community had outstripped our capacity to serve in such cramped quarters,” said Jones. “Today we are deeply grateful for our dedicated community of supporters who—in the face of the worst recession in generations—rallied together to ensure that this dream could become reality.” The primary feature of the expanded facility is a new medical clinic with twice as many exam rooms, an enhanced laboratory, family-friendly wait space, and greater accessibility for patients with disabilities. This new clinic will eventually serve twice as many underinsured and uninsured patients, through three times the amount of visits. Of the $8.35 million raised by Bread for the City’s Capital Campaign to build, equip, and operate the new facility, almost 15 percent came through private

donations. Contributions of more than $500 are being recognized by inclusion on an Honor Wall to be erected in the Northwest Center’s new lobby. The bulk of financing was provided by the DC Primary Care Association’s Medical Homes DC Capital Projects initiative, which is funded by the Government of the District of Columbia. “Though the Capital Campaign has met its initial fundraising goal,” said Jones, “we now intend to raise more funding so that we may accelerate the development of critical new services.” The original expansion plan called for the addition of dental and optometry services, two more healthcare needs of low-income DC residents. Jones said that, with continued support from the community, dental and vision care can be implemented at Bread for the City’s medical clinic within the year—three years ahead of schedule. Besides the new medical clinic, the expansion also benefits Bread for the City’s other services. The legal clinic will get its own office and the food pantry will get more space. “The excitement even extends to our roof,” said Jones, “which will feature a wonderful vegetable garden -- the metro DC area’s first large-scale rooftop agriculture site.” Several hundred people attended the ribbon cutting at 1525 7th Street NW They were treated to a very nice buffet on a not-too-chilly Friday afternoon. With so many DC residents enduring economic hardship, “the opening of this particular location signals, for many, brighter days ahead,” one former client observed.

Street Sense wishes to thank our corporate sponsor

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STREET SENSE JANUARY 19 - FEBRUARY 1, 2011

INTERNATIONAL

Beauty Night: A Community Gets a Makeover By Elecia Chrunik Megaphone “What do you think?” one participant asks as she laughs and wiggles her fingers to shows off her fresh French manicure, nicely shaped pink and sparkly green tips. Approaching its 10th anniversary this December, Beauty Night is now held up to three nights a week and provides an opportunity for women to get together to experience beauty services in a upbeat and safe atmosphere. Organizer Caroline MacGillivray has seen the event feed many women’s self-esteem and provide some well-deserved relaxation. Ten years is a long time for any event but Beauty Night seems to have taken on a life of its own though, like many things, it started with a simple encounter. MacGillivray was volunteering in the kitchen at the WISH dropin centre when she noticed a woman struggling to style her own hair. “I told her I’m not a professional hairdresser but I’d be willing to try,” MacGillivray says. She curled her hair with a curling iron, then did her makeup and nails. When the woman gave her a big hug in return, MacGillivray saw that the small gesture had a big effect. From then on every time she went in to help out in the kitchen there were women asking if she could spend time instead doing hair and makeup instead of washing dishes. Recognizing the demand and imagining the potential that an organized night of professionals could have, Mac-

Gillivray set out to organize the first Beauty Night. She gathered 14 volunteers with a variety of professional skills-hairdressers, estheticians, massage therapists-and 73 women showed up to make use of the free services. The event was a huge success but there was a lot to learn. “We blew out the power because of the amount of hairdryers,” MacGillivray says laughing. The night has grown steadily for the past decade, all on volunteer support and donations. These days women are invited to bring their children (free child minding is provided) while they do a gentle yoga class, have a light massage, get their eyebrows shaped, have their hair cut and styled or make a card or craft with the art supplies available. While it’s easy to see that the women with fresh haircuts have big smiles on their faces, the night isn’t just about aesthetics. MacGillivray is doing orientations with the University of British Columbia health care student volunteers that will be providing foot massage and pedicures while at the same time checking for foot abscesses, a sign indicative of Type 2 diabetes. The women will then be referred to a health clinic for further consultation. “We’re trying to provide a way for people to have access to tools to keep themselves healthy and feeling good about themselves,” MacGillivray says. Another initiative is the Walk Run program that will give participants access to personal trainers that will help them to prepare to participate in the annual Sun Run-last year there were seven participants and MacGillivray is

The room is bustling—chit-chat over hair dryers, the smell of nail polish remover, hairspray and massage oil. It’s a Monday night at the weekly Beauty Night Life Makeover Program held at the PHS Community Services LifeSkills Centre in Vancouver, a lively makeshift spa substitute that’s free to women in need of a haircut, a light shoulder massage, a yoga class or a just an evening of socializing and pampering. KEN VILLENEUVE, MEGAPHONE

certain there will be more this year. As the night grows, so does the need for partnerships and increased community support. This year, their annual Christmas fundraising drive coincides with the 10-year anniversary and the goal is to fill 1,000 stockings that will help supply the program for the year. Office drives bring in things like Clinique bonuses and similar items while some health care providers like dentists will donate toothbrushes and the like. In the community or in the neighborhood, MacGillivray sees the need for like-minded people and groups to work

together and is forging innovative partnerships with companies around the city, like local makeup manufacturer Ilus Elu who is making a Beauty Night lipstick and donating the proceeds. “We’re all working on the same issues so it’s important that we all work together,” MacGillivray says before we’re interrupted again by a woman wanting to model her new hair style. Originally published by Megaphone © www.streetnewsservice.org

Photos By Craig Hudson

STREET SENSE January 19 - February 1, 2011

Pics & Poems

(With Apologies to Regis Philbin) By James Preston Jordan

amn me, Oprah Winfrey; so you’re the poet laureate. No, that’s not right. Is it Anne Rice? It changes Oftener than the weather. Damn me, David Berkowitz—no, that’s not It either. Didn’t it used to be Billy Collins? And what the hell was that all about? It’s like Awarding the Nobel in medicine to some half-baked Quack with a bedside manner. No offense, Billy Collins. You don’t have enemies. Oh, That was what that was about. Let’s face it. Nowadays everybody and his brother-in-law is the poet laureate. That guy mowing the grass In the public park with the orange vest and Mismatched socks, he’s the poet laureate. A carful of Mexicans high on tequila and the cult Of the virgin, busting out colorful with sweet andeles— They’re the poet laureate. If Kid Rock were suddenly the poet laureate, then Things would change. Somebody has to feel it. Passions would ignite. People would throw moon pies From festively colored hammocks And pull each other’s hair out, Gouge out each other’s lyin’ eyes. That’s what I’m all about. Change. OK, so T.S. Eliot hated Whitman, despised every Little thing he stood for, projectile-vomited every time He heard the other’s name. Now that I’ve won my own Palme d’Or at Cannes for Very Best Actress in an Undertaker’s role, I feel I can say these things. Let loose. Get it “Geronition,” then forgotten what he’d written, relented Whitman? He ain’t so awful. So then suddenly everybody liked Whitman again, The history of our literature. If it doesn’t make you sit down In the middle of a crowded urban sidewalk and set the world Not to mention your wrongful terminations, then you’ll Probably just go to work tomorrow. Quick: Who’s the poet laureate? I’ll have poet laureates for 600, Alex. That’s right! You Win the trip to Bermuda! The charming, Canadian-born host Of Jeopardy is our one and only poet laureate.

10 10

Homeless for a Weekend

Lessons Learned in Becoming Invisible Pete Danelski Volunteer Writer Pete Danelski is a first-year student at DeSales University majoring in theater and studying acting. He was one of seven students who did the homeless challenge in Washington, DC the weekend of October 10–12, 2010. He can be reached at pd1826@desales.edu. Following the suggestions of the organizers of the Homeless Challenge, I had gone for five days without a shower before I arrived in Washington. I also had a dull headache brought on by my caked layers of filth and stench. And I was already suffering from self-consciousness. This was all before the 48-hour Homeless Challenge even began. While my fellow students and I tried to make light of the situation, there was nervous tension about what would come. The introduction we received when arriving at the National Coalition for the Homeless headquarters further intimidated me, not by anything the formerly homeless guides told us, but more by what they didn’t tell us. We were provided only with a meeting time and place before we were paired up and relinquished to Washington, D.C.’s streets. Standing there on the corner of some strangely lettered and numbered intersection, an overwhelming powerlessness washed over me. I began to realize how little I really knew. Attending a Philadelphia public high school provided me with a basic knowledge of a standard city grid, but the nation’s capital city layout all at once rendered me helpless. This apparent abandonment marked the beginning of my 48-hour journey into homelessness. Already feeling detached, my partner and I headed toward the Georgetown area, in hopes of finding college students, to whom we could relate, at least in age. We also set out to try our hands at panhandling during this time. The two hours we spent asking around for change hurt in a way I never before felt. People ignored us when we asked them directly. One woman very literally ran indoors as we approached. The reactions I received from men, women, boys and girls of all ages, skin colors and ethnicities instilled

Ankit Aryal Gettysburg College student panhandling downtown in January. JANE CAVE, STREET SENSE

in me a feeling of degradation I never knew could exist within a human being. Rejection and blatant rudeness from my own generation stung particularly hard. On any other day I could very well be flirting with these girls or joking around with the guys we encountered, but now not one fellow college student would acknowledge our existence. These were

my peers, and their behaviors forced me to question and analyze my own. Being brushed off in this manner all at once left me feeling hurt and unworthy. When a few generous souls finally allotted us some pocket change, I felt rich and grateful, as if I owed some lifelong debt. By afternoon, fed up and finding the

thought of another rejection unbearable, stopped outwardly asking for money. Instead, I set up a sign that said, “HOMELESS SINCE AUGUST 2009, PLEASE GIVE, ANYTHING HELPS,” sat down and let others come to me. Although the looks of pity I received still stung, I kept my outward pleas from being shut down and ignored. At the time, this breakthrough felt like an extraordinary accomplishment. I salvaged some of my pride, however little. By the evening, the day’s relentless panhandling left us with an approximate sum of $25. I could not wrap my head around this fortune. Finally we could provide for ourselves by purchasing our own food. Although prepared to spend our hard-earned cash, it took hours to find dinner, for no food court would let us in. We were not allowed to spend our own money, simply due to our looks. Finally finding a CVS, we bought a jar of peanut butter and crackers. We gorged ourselves. I doubt I will ever forget the appreciation and the enjoyment I received from that meal. (editor’s note: Homeless Challenge participants are encouraged to donate any leftover panhandling change to other homeless people or to programs that help them.) As night fell, we slept by a subway entrance, on top of the flattened cardboard we collected throughout the day. Our guides warned us to distance ourselves from any food in order to avoid waking up to rats crawling over us. For breakfast, we traveled to a shelter. The shelter dining hall’s similarities to that of my college cafeteria took me back. I heard the same arguments over sports, the same mocking banter. For the first time, I saw, under the hurt and agony of homelessness, playful, enjoyable people. My second day contrasted greatly with the first day’s emotional whirlwind. I spent it mostly in Franklin Square, a park covering roughly one city block and seemingly inhabited solely by the homeless. This is the point where the boredom finally, and quite harshly, set in. For hours, I watched non-homeless men and women pass by and through the square as if they could not see the colony of homeless surrounding them. As

STREET SENSE January 19 - February 1, 2011

News

A Challenging 48 Hours on the Streets By Mary Otto Editor

Laura Koenig panhandling on the corner durring her 48 hours living on the streets. JANE CAVE, STREET SENSE

Those who gave spare change humbled me, but what left me awestruck was the sheer power within a smile and glance flashed in passing by a stranger. the day’s hours dwindled, time inside the park stood still, and we remained out of sight to the world. The previous day’s resentment, pain and insecurity, without question, remained inside me, but my lack of physical and mental movement overwhelmed any thoughts of action left I possessed, leaving me to accept my new societal role. My goal shifted exclusively to surviving while sacrificing as little of my remaining humanity as possible. My journey in D.C. taught me what it means to be invisible, an experience that the majority of our nation will never understand. I came out of the challenge with no groundbreaking theories on homelessness and no key to ending this social epidemic. What my time in D.C. did provide me with is unfathomable gratitude for the blessings I receive on a daily basis and an earnest understanding of the weight placed on homeless men and women. I must admit we all took part in an experiment while still having a safety

net. If any of us got sick, we could very easily contact the coalition and arrange a pickup. In addition, for all 48 hours, somewhere deep in my soul, I know I remembered that outside the challenge’s self-imposed circumstances, my life waited for me. That safety net is not real for anyone on the streets. There were transcendent moments, too, when someone found the decency to look me in the eye. Between food trucks and shelter, my hunger became surmountable. Those who gave spare change humbled me, but what left me awestruck was the sheer power within a smile and glance flashed in passing by a stranger. If challenged to advise how to help a homeless man or woman you may encounter on the street, I would say to smile and ask about how their day is going so far. Human interaction is more valuable than any amount of money and holds the potential to bring the invisible into sight.

The group of students and young staffers from Gettysburg College checked in at the National Coalition for the Homeless halfway through their 48-hour Homeless Challenge dirty, exhausted, but already wiser. For 24 hours, they had been living by their wits, and the kindness of strangers, panhandling, catching a little warmth in libraries and Metro stations. Experienced homeless people could tell they were new to the streets and guided them to the soup lines. But with their torn clothes and bags, they got suspicious looks when they ventured into department stores to use the restrooms. In between, they walked for miles. At night, they laid down the cardboard they had gathered while Dumpster diving, spread out their bedrolls and slept fitfully on the pavement outside McPherson Square Metro station. “I am so exhausted,” admitted student Laura Koening “I can’t wait to go to sleep again. But I’ll be sleeping on concrete.” They knew they were only homeless for another 24 hours. But they had learned some important things about the vulnerability that goes with having no place to really be. Michael Stoops, director of community organizing for the NCH sees this among the participants of every one of the dozen Homeless Challenge groups he organizes each year. A weekend “is not enough to change someone’s life, “ Stoops said. “But it makes them appreciate what they have and what it’s like to be homeless in our society.” Stoops himself was one of several homeless activists including Mitch Snyder of the Community for Creative NonViolence who lived on the streets for six months during the winter of 198687. They successfully lobbied Congress for the passage of the McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act, which provides federal money for homeless services. After that, Stoops got the Homeless Challenge program started. Since 1988,

Emily Miano, Isha Rajbhandari , Ankit Aryal, Laura Koenig and Monique Brown pose midway through their Homeless Challenge. JANE CAVE, STREET SENSE

over 2,000 people have taken part. Participants include students from over 200 different schools, Capitol Hill staffers and public officials, candidates for public office and social workers. Many make the challenge part of a weeklong immersion learning experience that includes volunteering at local homeless programs, listening to a panel of homeless men and women talk about their lives at an NCH Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau presentation and lobbying for homelessness legislation in Congress. Stoops believes the Homeless Challenge program has helped many participants get more involved in homelessness and social justice issues. He believes first-hand experience is a great teacher. “It’s important to become an expert at whatever you are passionate about.” Turning to his latest charges he coached them on. “Has anybody gone to Starbucks to ask for free coffee?” asked Stoops, “Has anyone asked for a job yet?” “I definitely want to get a job,” said student Ankit Aryal. The student knew his patched jacket and matted hair would work against him in the job market. But he would give it a try. Then Aryal and the others resolutely shouldered their bags and bedrolls and headed back out into the gray afternoon, to learn more about homelessness.

Writer’s Group

Street Sense offers our vendors the chance to share their stories and poetry every Monday from 10 to 11 a.m.

Home Free By Robert Warren

he end of homelessness, how could that be?

The Lord of us all said the poor and homeless would always be among thee. A test of life for the Lord to see how man gives to those less fortunate than he.

Faith

Richard Embden

Faith is stepping out before

With a home to live in-- not on the street, with lowlife, murderers and thieves,

others,

Regular folks, foreclosed on, trying to get back on their feet,

into the vision that

And those who say shelter life is not for me.

God has revealed.

Remember the Lord of us all said they would always be among us to see.

The new life you

The end of homelessness, home with the thought of our Lord wherever we may be.

know He has for you begins with the first step.

When our Lord brings us home to be, Living in praise of only thee, For all the help you give to the poor and the homeless of Washington DC. For every day someone ends their homelessness like you and me, With the thought of the Lord who gives us everything. Helping the poor and the homeless that the Lord said would always be. Yes, it is a test of life to go home with the Lord forever home and be free. The end of homelessness. Yes, we can believe with our Lord, who says a thing to be and it will be. Homeless no more to follow our Lord

You cannot see where all the steps are going, but you know this first step is ordained for you. You will never know how you will get there until you take that first step.

Home indeed. Homes for all the homeies and homegirls. And little wee ones sleeping in cars with mommies out on the streets.

A Hole in the Sky

The end of homelessness; How could that be?

Wyndous lien, eac pane broken

With the Lord for all who believe.

By Paul Lee Taylor

The end of homelessness, how could that be?

That will be the end of homelessness;

The Dawning Quintuplet

Things unsought, done to the voice, to a the be weak, know; the be strang, rejoice! - F. Sterling

(euery thing falls à part) as offt sehen, how thaie oppen.

- F. Sterling

The Looming Furnace itting near the banks of a plasma river, I’m spellbound by what has to be forever. Wanting to stay longer but cannot because the sun it is oncoming! Look above and see that soon it will be in range of this planet, and there will be no peace until evening. Delivering intense heat this desert will become a furnace! I must flee before I am consumed by its fire. Super Nova I could not hide and I felt the rays of the sun tear at me, thinking this to be awful I sensed that it was healing so I gave in. When I awakened I noticed there was no more pain, anywhere! My spirit held as I was baptized in a blaze! It was a rebirth though I am saddened with distant memories. Inroads On the horizon there came a vertical figure I could not visualize clearly through the aridness, but as I stared it grew larger and larger. Now I could tell someone was approaching, who happened to be female. Summoning me to go with her I said that, “My wanting has failed!” Taking hold of my arm she lifted me to my feet, beckoning. Offerings We went back the way she had come along the solar-baked surface, and below a cliff in the distance there was an encaampment! The decline wasn’t steep, as she guided the way I kept noticing the dreamy landscape. Along a ravine, waterfalls flowed into an immense lake with lush gardens and livestock. Other castaways were farming and those inside of the boats were netting creatures along the shore. There was music as the inhabitants danced around a group of singers! A Saint Within My garments were burnt, so the woman gave me some of hers and a nourishing meal. Asking loudly I said, “Who are you that you can bring a miracle to this desolation?!” Joyfully she said, “Missionaries of Sagittaes, we came here to give salvation.” This woman was a goddess in every way, gifted with insight and devotion. I said, “I will plead for the divine to grant you a crystal castle, where you can be seen from the four corners. To be adored by the public, and giving guidance to many. If that is too much to ask, for this saint, then I propose the very next best thing!!!”

STREET SENSE January 19 - February 1, 2011

Op-Ed

SPEAKING OUT

My Guide to Business & Sales

By Jeffery McNeil Vendor To be in any kind of business it is not for the faint of heart. Capitalism is the ultimate poker match, it can be stressful, and sometimes you have to risk everything, sometimes you have to be cruel and coldblooded when there is competition, and like poker, you can’t be afraid to bluff and have larceny in your heart. Business is a sport; businesspeople are competitive by nature. You have to have swagger and heart. You need to be fearless, and not afraid to be an opportunist, although entrepreneurship is a risky undertaking the rewards goes to the capitalist. Here is what I’ve learned: Business is heartless Business is basically war; you need to strategically plan to win all the chips. Sales supplys goods or services for the benefit of profit. Comparable to pro sports there are no friends, there are only alliances or ventures to either boot the middle man or another company. The Redskins don’t weep for the Eagles, or the wolf doesn’t care if a sheep is sick or depressed. Any sign of weakness is an opportunity to take over a new market. Build a bankroll: It is better to be the lender than the borrower. The reason I can sell newspapers or any product effortlessly is because I save my money. If you have money when there is an opportunity you will have the capital to invest. In business it is never good to borrow, sooner or later you’re going to have to pay back the person you borrow from usually at a higher price than when you borrowed. I try to save at least five dollars a day. Cash flow: I learned to make money in any venture; you want to get the most for the least. I look for bargains

and discounts, I try to cut luxuries when times get rough, or get them at a lower price. I look for value when I shop, and try to have little overhead. The key to sales: To be a successful salesman you must first build bonds and friendships. If people do not like you chances are they will not buy from you. You have to be upbeat no matter what is going on in your life. You have to be a good listener and have an ability to take criticism and complaints, and be persuasive, not aggressive. Sales is entertainment: People never buy the product; it is you they buy. People respond to energy and enthusiasm, nobody likes to hear sad stories especially when you are selling a product. We all have things in our life that are sad and disstressing, but when you are out there in public you never let someone see you in misery. Happy people are buying people. I learned its never the product it is the person behind the product, so to be a good salesman you need to show livelihood. Businesses is a game of numbers: Vending is sort of like running for office, I look for the busiest areas to sell and I perform. I go by the thirty rule; I sell thirty in the morning, thirty in the afternoon, and thirty by dusk. I pace myself. I utilize my time so I do not get burned out and I look for lucrative areas where no one else goes. I keep a journal and a balance sheet so I can find my improvements. One of my thirty rules is 30 percent are loyal customers, 30 percent will not buy no matter what so it isn’t profitable to convince them to buy your newspaper, and 30 percent don’t care. The profits come from those who have never heard of Street Sense, so in order to stay on top you can’t leave a bad impression to first time buyers.

Taxes & the Poor By Robert Warren Vendor I sometimes I shake my head when I think about how the American people can be so easily misled. Some say public servants are sincerely trying to help us. Others would lead us to believe that the same public servants are trying to hurt us. Maybe that is just the nature of politics. The Democrats and Republicans will always be fighting this war of words, misleading us to think they really have our best interests at heart. There are so many lives at stake. The American dream is at stake and perhaps it never existed in the first place. I wonder if people on the right who think of themselves as followers of Christ or people of faith, or as President Obama would say "God Followers," think that after all the taxpayers money that has been spent, it has only kept the rich in their riches, instead of helping the middle class or the ranks of the poor. Some rich people and Republicans think that they shouldn't pay a little more in taxes. When you think about it, these are the same people that the President and the Congress protected from the recession who are now saying, “Don’t raise our taxes to help the poor and middle class tax-

all people are

Welcome

here

Join us in worship on Sundays at 9:30 am, 11:00 am, 5:30 pm Homeless Outreach Hospitality Fridays at 9:00 _____________________________

Foundry United Methodist Church A Reconciling Congregation

1500 16th Street NW | Washington DC | 20036 202.332.4010 | foundryumc.@foundryumc.org

www.foundryumc.org

payers who helped us.” It's like you are damned if you do and damned if you don't. You have Republicans and Democrats coming together to say, “We can't let banks and corporations go broke, the rich folks and fat cats, because if we do things will really get worse for the poor and the middle class.” But at the same time, some of these rich folks and fat cats don't care anything about the health and welfare of their fellow man. They only want to help themselves and those people who think they are so much better than you and I. People who don't even have an idea of what a real hard day of work is. No, all rich folk are not like that; and most who have been helped out with taxpayer dollars to maintain their way of life would gladly pay a few more dollars in taxes. But in this war of politics, greed and lust for power this is what we get. Some would say this country is going to hell or becoming a third world country. I don't know what it is going to take for people just to see the light. If we don't take care of each other today we won't have a country to take care of tomorrow. If people don't have health care jobs and housing today, how can we be there for our children tomorrow?

Happy Birthday to January-born vendors Tommy Bennett, Michael Anderson, Sammy Ngatiri, Leroy Studevant, Kenneth Belkosky, Clinton Kilpatrick, Chris Shaw, Larry Garner & Kwayera Dakari

Vendor Code of Conduct 1. Street Sense will be distributed for a voluntary donation of $1. I agree not to ask for more than $1 or to solicit donations for Street Sense by other means. 2. I will only purchase the paper from Street Sense staff and will not sell papers to other vendors (outside of the office volunteers). 3. I agree to treat all others – customers, staff and other vendors – respectfully. I will not “hard sell,” threaten or pressure customers. 4. I agree to stay off private property when selling Street Sense. 5. I understand that I am not a legal employee of Street Sense but a contracted worker responsible for my own well–being and income. 6. I agree to sell no additional goods or products when selling Street Sense. 7. I will not sell Street Sense under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 8. I agree to stay a block away from another vendor and respect the space of all vendors. 9. I understand that my badge is the property of Street Sense and will not deface it. I will present my badge when purchasing newspapers. I will display my badge and wear my vest when selling papers. 10. I understand that Street Sense strives to be a paper that covers homelessness and poverty issues while providing a source of income for the homeless. I will try to help in this effort and spread the word.

Vendor Profile: Peius Ennel

Goals for ’11: ‘Better Myself Day by Day’ By Mandy Toomey Volunteer Writer Four years ago Peius became homeless after drugs and alcohol robbed him of his interest in doing anything positive. Since then, Peius has traveled a roller coaster journey that is now heading in a more positive direction. These past few years have taught this vendor to stay away from vices and to rely more upon himself. “I’m trying to achieve more on my own rather than sitting back and waiting for others,” said Peius. Peius started selling Street Sense two years ago and can be found-- papers in hand -- at Park and 14th Street in Columbia Heights. Through Street Sense Peius says he has seen what he is capable of doing: “I learned that I can be a better

person than I was.” This is an important lesson Peius would like to also pass along to his customers. “Try to believe in yourself. You can do as much as you allow yourself to do; let nothing hold you back.” One important part of Peius’ life that has given him strength to continue along a positive path is an improved relationship with his family. “Now I have a lovely relationship with my family and my sisters. It’s made me happier; I feel a little more complete now.” About five months ago Peius started seeing doctors and taking medicine for depression, which has helped his outlook on life. In pursuit of the right direction Peius plans to stay on his medication and seek out positive people. Just before Christmas Peius had cancer surgery and a malignant tumor

was successfully removed. He will be spared chemotherapy. Since he will be unable to do the sort of heavy work such as moving furniture that sustained him in the past, Peius says he hopes to find lighter types of work in the future. He also hopes to find permanent housing. Peius’ goals for 2011 are to, “better myself day by day and pray to the Lord to keep me in good health.”

THE STORY OF STREET SENSE Street Sense began in August 2003 after two volunteers, Laura Thompson Osuri and Ted Henson, approached the National Coalition for the Homeless on separate occasions with the idea to start a street paper in Washington, D.C., as a means of empowering the area’s poor and homeless. A street paper is a newspaper about poverty, homelessness and other social issues which provides an income to the homeless individuals who sell it. More than 30 street papers operate in the United States and Canada,

65%

Directly aids the vendor

including in cities like Seattle, Chicago, Montreal and Boston. Dozens more exist throughout the world. After bringing together a core of dedicated volunteers, Street Sense published its first issue in November 2003, printing 5,000 copies. About a dozen vendors sold the first issue of the paper. For the next three years, it published on a monthly basis and greatly expanded its circulation and vendor network. Street Sense initially operated as a project of the National Coalition for the Homeless. In

October 2004, the organization incorporated and moved into its own office space. In March 2005, Street Sense received 501(c)3 status, becoming a nonprofit organization. In October 2005, Street Sense formed a full board of directors, and in November, the organization hired its first employee, a full-time executive director. A year later, Street Sense hired its first vendor coordinator and began partnering with several service providers. In February 2007, the paper increased the frequency of publication to twice a month.

35%

Supports printing costs

In order to support the increased production, Street Sense brought on its first full-time editor-in-chief in April. To d a y, S t r e e t S e n s e h a s f o u r professionals, more than 100 active vendors and nearly 30,000 copies in circulation each month. The newspaper has become a major source of news for Washingtonians, providing content on issues which often go uncovered by the mainstream media. Street Sense is a member of the National Association of Street Newspapers (NASNA).

YOUR DOLLAR Every vendor makes a personal investment in Street Sense by purchasing issues at a rate of 35 cents per copy. This money helps cover our production and printing costs for the paper, while still enabling the vendors to sell the paper at a low price and substantial profit.

STREET SENSE January 19 -February 1, 2011

Community Service Service Spotlight: Calvary Women’s Services Calvary Women’s Services is a shelter for homeless women in need of temporary housing and support services. The shelter not only provides housing for the women, but the chance to empower and educate themselves for independent living through various services offered. Calvary was born out of necessity in the basement of a church in 1983 and has now evolved into a full program offering many helpful tools for women struggling to start back in the right direction. Today, the shelter has grown to a traditional housing program with 25 beds. The programs offered range from nutritious cooking classes, individual case management and goal counseling, addiction recovery for drugs and alcohol, supported employment, financial assistance and savings programs, and referrals to other partners for an array

DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH ACCESS HOTLINE 1-888-7WE HELP (1-888-793-4357) www.dcfoodfinder.org

SHELTER Calvary Women’s Services 110 Maryland Ave, NE (202) 289-0596 (office) (202) 289-2111 (shelter) www.calvaryservices.org

of needs. The Calvary Women’s Services has been recognized in many areas. Some of the most recent are the Washington Area Women’s Foundation in 2009 Leadership Award, the Junior League of Washington’s 2009 Community Partner of the year, as well as The Independent Charities Seal of Excellence. Calvary welcomes all women in need of housing. To put your name on the waiting list for this program, visit the shelter between 3 and 4 PM. Calvary is always looking for community support through volunteers as well as community involvement through upcoming events. To volunteer, give financially, find upcoming events, or more information visit their website at www.calvaryservices.org. Call (202) 289-2111, or visit Calvary at 928 5th Street, NW to contact Calvary Women’s Services.

My Sister’s Place PO Box 29596, Washington, DC 20017 (202) 529-5261 (office) (202) 529-5991 (24-hour hotline)

801 East, St. Elizabeths Hospital (Men) 2700 MLK Avenue, SE (202) 561–4014 New York Ave Shelter (Men 18+) 1355–57 New York Avenue, NE (202) 832–2359

Open Door Shelter (Women) 425 2nd Street, NW (202) 393–1909 www.newhopeministriesdc.org/id3.html

FOOD

Covenant House Washington (Youth) 2001 Mississippi Ave., SE (202) 610–9600, www.covenanthousedc.org John Young Center (Women) 119 D Street, NW (202) 639–8469, www.catholiccharitiesdc.org

Martha’s Table 2114 14th Street, NW (202) 328–6608, www.marthastable.org

Food and Friends 219 Riggs Road, NE (202) 269–2277, www.foodandfriends.org

Rachel’s Women’s Center 1222 11th Street, NW (202) 682–1005, www.ccdsd.org/howorwc.php

Miriam’s Kitchen 2401 Virginia Avenue, NW (202) 452–8089, www.miriamskitchen.org

Sasha Bruce Youthwork 741 8th Street, SE (202) 675–9340, www.sashabruce.org

The Welcome Table Church of the Epiphany 1317 G Street, NW (202) 347–2635, http://www.epiphanydc. org/ministry/welcometbl.htm

So Others Might Eat (SOME) 71 “O” Street, NW (202) 797–8806; www.some.org

MEDICAL RESOURCES Christ House 1717 Columbia Road, NW (202) 328–1100, www.christhouse.org Unity Health Care, Inc. 3020 14th Street, NW (202) 745–4300,www.unityhealthcare.org Whitman–Walker Clinic 1407 S Street, NW (202) 797–3500, www.wwc.org

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Academy of Hope GED Center 601 Edgewood St., NE 202-269-6623, www.aohdc.org Catholic Community Services 924 G Street, NW (202) 772–4300, www.ccs–dc.org D.C. Coalition for the Homeless 1234 Massachusetts Ave., NW (202) 347–8870, www.dccfh.org Community Family Life Services 305 E Street, NW (202) 347–0511, www.cflsdc.org

OUTREACH CENTERS N Street Village (Women) 1333 N Street, NW (202) 939–2060, www.nstreetvillage.org

Central Union Mission (Men) 1350 R Street, NW (202) 745–7118, www.missiondc.org

Community of Hope (Family) 1413 Girard Street, NW (202) 232–7356,www.communityofhopedc.org

St. Stephens Parish Church 1525 Newton St, NW (202) 737–9311, www.thrivedc.org

Charlie’s Place 1830 Connecticut Avenue, NW (202) 232–3066 www.stmargaretsdc.org/charliesplac Church of the Pilgrims (Sundays only) 2201 P Street, NW (202) 387–6612, www.churchofthepilgrims.org Thrive DC Breakfast served Mon.-Fri., 9:30-11 a.m. Dinner for women and children, Mon.-Fri., 3-6 p.m.

Bread for the City 1525 Seventh Street, NW (202) 265–2400 1640 Good Hope Road, SE (202) 561–8587, www.breadforthecity.org Community Council for the Homeless at Friendship Place 4713 Wisconsin Avenue NW (202) 364–1419, www.cchfp.org Bethany Women’s Center 1333 N Street, NW (202) 939–2060, www.nstreetvillage.org Father McKenna Center 19 Eye Street, NW (202) 842–1112 Friendship House 619 D Street, SE (202) 675–9050, www.friendshiphouse.net Georgetown Ministry Center 1041 Wisconsin Avenue, NW (202) 338–8301 www.georgetownministrycenter.org

Foundry Methodist Church 1500 16th Street, NW (202) 332–4010, www.foundryumc.org Gospel Rescue Ministries (Men) 810 5th Street, NW (202) 842–1731, www.grm.org Hermano Pedro Day Center 3211 Sacred Heart Way, NW (202) 332–2874 www.ccs–dc.org/find/services/ JHP, Inc. 425 2nd St, NW (202) 544–9126, www.jobshavepriority.org Samaritan Ministry 1345 U Street, SE 1516 Hamilton Street, NW (202) 889–7702, www.samaritanministry.org

SHELTER HOTLINE: 1–800–535–7252

THE LAST WORD

Learning About Those I Used to Judge By Mandy Toomey Volunteer Writer Last week, loaded down with groceries and waiting for the 52 bus in Columbia Heights, I ran into a Street Sense vendor I first met the day after his sales orientation. Back on that snowy day in December, I had asked him about his New Year’s resolutions for a feature I was writing to be in the next issue. This day he stopped me and reintroduced himself. He confessed that he just realized a few days before that he was in the paper. Minutes later the bus arrived; I said goodbye and couldn’t stop smiling on the bus. I’ve written the stories of Street Sense vendors since March 2010, which has slowly become a part of my identity. Walking around the city, I run into vendors I can greet by name. People come to office asking to have their profiles written. I am organizing interviews on weekends and contacting vendors by phone and through email. But it wasn’t always like this. When I first started writing vendor profiles, I would head down to the offices at 1317 G Street NW once a week and wait. And wait. Sometimes for hours. When a vendor would come in to buy papers, I would ask if they wanted his/her profile written. They didn’t know me and most didn’t want to tell me their story. Many vendors said they would be ready next time or later, but that time rarely came. I couldn’t hide my excitement the first time I read my byline. But, two weeks later that vendor came in with a new self-written profile. I guess that’s

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