EVERY DOLLAR DONATED WILL BE MATCHED DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR UP TO $1,000,000.00!
Matthew’s Hope has a fantastic chance to raise $2 million by midnight on December 31st! Every dollar donated will be matched up to $1,000,000. This includes monthly donations. For example, a $100 monthly commitment means $1,200 for Matthew’s Hope.
$1 becomes $2... $1,000,000 becomes $2,000,000!
This support will greatly help us recover from pandemic debt, hurricanes, and rapid growth. Our budget for both locations is $15M, with about 1,000 visits weekly.
Everybody wants to serve the homeless at Christmas. So much so that this is the time we give our team a much-needed break. This often shocks people. Many parents want to use our homeless ministry as a “teachable moment” for their kids. They want to show their children just how fortunate they are and the importance of caring for the homeless men, women and children of our community.
During the Christmas season, many families take this time to go to church, listen to the message, and are inspired and eager to help others. We are so thankful; we just have one problem. What happens on January 1 st ? What happens when the Christmas decorations are taken down and the homeless individuals are no longer a valuable lesson for our children, but an inconvenience affecting
let Jesus do? It’s a reminder that the birth of Jesus was in humble conditions. God entered the world not draped in gold robes, but as a child with nothing—dependent on the kindness of strangers. Sound familiar?
Our team works diligently to remind the community that each of these individuals have names, and they too are children of God, and now more than ever, they need your help.
Our state has criminalized homelessness. So yes, we need to ask our political leaders, what would they let Jesus do? Would they throw Joseph and Mary in jail and put baby Jesus in the care of DCF, or would they open their hearts to these strangers and offer a hand up?
This year, rather than just collecting toys for the holidays, we are collecting “Gifts of Hope”. Yes, with your help, we will make sure all the children receive toys from Santa, yet at the same time, we want to recognize that homeless families and shelterless individuals have additional needs, including warm clothing, shoes, blankets, hot meals and more.
In closing I would like to take this opportunity to thank our amazing staff and dedicated volunteers. They have worked many long hours and have literally weathered two hurricanes as they continue to support our mission. Thank you to all the donors who came to our fall fundraisers in Orange and Brevard County. We appreciate your support!
With a budget nearing $15 million in Central Florida, Matthew’s Hope isn’t your typical charity. It operates on the belief that the power to change lives doesn’t rest solely with wealthy donors, but with everyday people. Middle-class individuals provide the bulk of its funding, illustrating that community support is the backbone of its success. This grassroots backing not only sustains Matthew’s Hope, but proves that collective community action can drive significant impact.
Meeting Homelessness Head-On
Operating over 100,000 square feet of facilities that provide essential services like medical aid, laundry, and haircuts, Matthew’s Hope tackles homelessness from all angles. Yet,
This philosophy underpins Matthew’s Hope’s approach, encouraging those who receive aid to engage in self-sustainability and thus maintain their dignity. By emphasizing personal involvement and commitment, the ministry adds value to the assistance provided. This model not only supports individuals today but empowers them to stand independently tomorrow.
Adapting to Changing Landscapes
The pandemic was a game-changer, but Matthew’s Hope proved its resilience by expanding to mobile outreach. This adaptability ensured continued service delivery during challenging times and highlighted the organization’s nimbleness in respond-
knowledge, the ministry amplifies its impact without inflating its budget.
Every Bit Counts
Every contribution matters. Matthew’s Hope has demonstrated how even small donations, when pooled together, can lead to monumental impacts. This reinforces an empowering message to potential donors— your contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.
A Call to Action
Matthew’s Hope has set a precedent, but the fight against homelessness requires ongoing effort and more hands on deck. Matthew’s Hope would like to thank its community partners, in-
Planned giving provides a remarkable opportunity to make a lasting impact for your community and Matthew’s Hope. By incorporating charitable donations into your estate plan, you can help ensure Matthew’s Hope’s future while leaving behind a meaningful legacy of support. In this article, we’ll discuss the various types and benefits of planned giving and how your contributions can help support the critical work of Matthew’s Hope in Orange and Brevard County.
A Gift That Keeps on Giving: The Advantages of Planned Giving
There are numerous benefits to planned giving — both for the donors and for the organizations like Matthew’s Hope that they support. Here are a few key advantages:
Tax Benefits
By incorporating planned gifts into your estate plan, you may receive significant tax benefits. Bequests can potentially reduce federal estate taxes, while some gift types, like charitable remainder trusts, have tax-exempt status.
Customizable Giving Options
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to planned giving. Gifts can take various forms, from simple bequests to more complex trusts and annuities. Donors can select a giving method that best aligns with their financial situation and strategic goals.
Flexibility and Control
Regardless of income level, planned gifts don’t impact everyday cash flow and are accessible to everyone. Do-
nors have the flexibility to choose how and where their money is spent, and updating bequests is simple, allowing for changes in their wishes or financial circumstances.
Choosing the Right Planned Gift for You and Your Legacy
There are several options available for those considering planned giving. Here are a few popular choices:
Bequests
A bequest is a straightforward and common method of planned giving. By allocating a portion of your assets to Matthew’s Hope in your will, trust, or estate plan, you can significantly impact the organization’s future.
Charitable Gift Annuities
These types of planned gifts involve a contract between the donor and the organization. The donor makes a gift in exchange for fixed income payments for life, benefiting both parties.
Non-Cash Assets
Donating non-cash assets, such as stock or real estate, is also a viable option. Organizations like Matthew’s Hope can utilize these assets to fulfill their expanding needs in the community.
Retirement Fund Contributions
Consider donating directly from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or utilizing Pooled Income Funds. This approach allows you to support Matthew’s Hope while enjoying potential tax benefits.
Maximizing Your Planned Giving Impact
To ensure that your planned gift aligns with your personal and financial goals, it is essential to seek professional assistance from financial advisors, accountants, and estate planning attorneys. These experts can guide you in maximizing the benefits of your gift, helping you make an informed decision that serves both your interests and those of Matthew’s Hope.
If you’re passionate about leaving a lasting legacy through helping others, now is the time to take action. Reach out to Pastor Scott Billue at Matthew’s Hope to discuss how your gift can best align with the organization’s mission. By embracing planned giving, you can make a significant difference in the lives of those served by Matthew’s Hope while securing your impactful legacy for years to come. Don’t hesitate to make a difference today.
The homeless crisis is a multifaceted issue that affects communities worldwide, and one of its most critical aspects is mental health. Understanding how mental health plays a role in homelessness—not only as a cause but also as a consequence—can help us tackle this complex challenge more effectively. This article aims to shed light on the mental health struggles faced by the homeless, the healthcare barriers they encounter, and the community support necessary to drive change.
The Mental Health-Homelessness Connection
It’s estimated that up to 40% of homeless individuals experience some form of mental illness. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia are prevalent, making it difficult for affected individuals to maintain employment or stable housing. However, the link between mental health and homelessness is reciprocal; the stress and instability of living without a home can further exacerbate existing mental health issues.
A Struggle for Basic Healthcare
One of the most significant challenges facing the homeless population is the lack of access to basic healthcare. Without regular medical attention, mental health conditions often go untreated, leading to a vicious cycle that perpetuates homelessness. Furthermore, poor physical health, including neglected foot care, can lead to severe complications, adding
another layer of difficulty to their already precarious lives.
Organizations like Matthew’s Hope are striving to bridge this gap by collaborating with healthcare providers to offer essential services. They emphasize the need for community engagement and support, which can enhance their ability to provide comprehensive care.
Funding Challenges and Community Support
Funding remains a persistent obstacle in delivering adequate healthcare services to the homeless. Government resources are limited, and many organizations rely heavily on donations and community support to continue their work. Upcoming events aimed at raising awareness and funds for Matthew’s Hope highlight the importance of community involvement in addressing these challenges.
The Importance of Transitional Housing
Transitional housing plays a crucial role in providing stability for the homeless. However, current resources are insufficient to meet demand. More funding and support for these programs are essential to offer safe and stable living environments, which can significantly aid recovery processes for those struggling with mental health issues.
Changing Perceptions and Misconceptions
Misconceptions about homelessness
often hinder effective solutions. It’s essential for the public to recognize the humanity and hard work of individuals experiencing homelessness, fostering empathy and understanding. Education and awareness can shift public perception and encourage policies that address the root causes of homelessness.
Innovative Approaches and Solutions
Therapy animals have emerged as an innovative approach to aid mental health and encourage community engagement. These animals can provide companionship and emotional support, offering relief from the loneliness and stress that many homeless individuals experience.
Addressing the intertwined issues of mental health and homelessness requires a collective effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and local residents. By fostering collaboration and understanding, we can create a more supportive environment that allows those struggling with homelessness to thrive.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, consider supporting initiatives like Matthew’s Hope. Attend their events or volunteer your time to assist in our mission. Together, we can work toward a future where everyone has access to the care and support they need.
Let Jesus Do?
At Christmas, we often reflect on the joy of Jesus’ birth, imagining a peaceful nativity scene with angels, shepherds, and wise men. But the reality of that night was far more humble and heartbreaking. Joseph and Mary,
They saw the Holy Family for who they were and offered help.
Today, we face the same question. What would we do if Jesus came to us tomorrow, looking like the
The innkeepers were not wealthy or powerful, but they gave what they had. And in doing so, they showed us that love doesn’t have to come from abundance. It can come from small acts of care, from opening our hearts
Would it surprise you to know that many homeless individuals own cell phones and ATM cards? It’s time to rethink what we think we know about homelessness. First, how do we know that individual was homeless?
“People wear their pajamas to Walmart nowadays…Don’t know any homeless people who wear a shirt that says,I’m Homeless” stated Scott Billue.
Homelessness doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. A person’s appearance is not an accurate reflection of their housing status. Anyone can appear unkempt, and assumptions based solely on clothing or appearance often miss the mark. It’s essential to cultivate a deeper awareness that challenges these surface-level assessments, advocating instead for empathy and understanding.
Cellphones as Lifelines
In today’s world, a cell phone is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. For homeless individuals, smartphones are lifelines that offer more than just the ability to make calls.
“Phones are such a need, we don’t have payphones anymore” stated Shelley Bradford, President of Matthew’s Hope.
Cell phones provide access to job applications, connections with family, and essential resources. In fact, for many, their phone is a critical tool for survival and personal advancement. Far from being a frivolous expense, connectivity is a crucial element of modern life that can help bridge the gap between homelessness and stability. Smartphones are necessary for homeless parents to stay in touch with their children’s school.
an ATM card can spark unwarranted judgments. Yet, this card could represent government assistance, social security benefits, or even wages from a part-time job. Financial resources exist in various forms, challenging the stereotype that homelessness automatically means complete financial destitution.
Understanding these nuances is vital for breaking down misconceptions and advocating for more inclusive support systems. Homeless individuals don’t receive checks or “food stamps”, monies received are reloaded onto a card.
The Power of Questions
Questions are the catalysts for change. Encouraging curiosity and open inquiry about homelessness can dismantle stereotypes and foster understanding. Rather than relying on assumptions, asking questions can illuminate the diverse experiences and challenges faced by homeless individuals, promoting a culture of empathy and learning.
We want to answer your questions!
It’s time to engage. Talk about homelessness. Share stories. Listen and learn. Please send us your questions so we can answer them not only for you but for the benefit of others. Together, we can challenge misconceptions and
I met Scott in 2010 at a race, my husband and I were about to start the race. What Scott shared about Matthew’s Hope pulled at my heart and I told Darren that morning I was going to work for Matthews Hope. I have always wanted to “help people” in some way, and this ministry never left my heart and mind.
“I had a decision to make a few years ago as Matthew’s Hope was growing. I could help a few people on my own or we can help thousands with the right team. God’s timing is perfect in all of this because he knew exactly what I needed to take this to the next level” stated Scott Billue, Founder and CEO of Matthew’s Hope.
With God’s perfect timing, he chose to take this whole ministry to the next level. In the almost 7 years I have been at Matthews Hope, I have seen us grow and adapt to changes that have caused many nonprofits around homelessness to struggle or even shutter their doors. We have
navigated through a large amount of growth, some we initiated. Much of the growth has been out of the unbelievable need around our homeless community and then the pandemic. Now we are facing HB1365. Where it is against the law to “camp” in public. Depending on what politician you speak to on this subject, some call this the “Homeless Bill”.
A few years ago, Scott had a decision to make. The real decision was, are we going to take our ministry to the next level or stay where we were. Staying where we were would’ve been so much easier and a lot less stress. But that is not what God was asking us as a ministry to do.
This is when we made the decision to expand our teams at each campus and bring them up in leadership. Once we made this decision, we had to trust who we put in place to take Matthews Hope to the next level and encourage personal growth amongst our team. We trust who we have in place to honor the Matthews Hope Ministry Mission.
With this being the path we have been, we are visionaries and action oriented. We depend dailyand we depend daily on trusting the leadership we’ve put in place. This is going to help us continue to thrive as we serve the homeless community. Become part of our mission, and help us continue to grow and serve those in need.
In Central Florida, an epidemic has arisen- homelessness. Once stereotyped as an issue affecting predominantly single white men, the face of homelessness now presents a complex tapestry of people from all walks of life; Veterans who have served their country, senior citizens facing the twilight years without stable housing, individuals with mental health issues who self-medicate when unable to get the treatment needed, and young people struggling to find their place in an unforgiving economy.
A Profile of Vulnerability: Veterans
Brevard and Orange County have become home to a significant veteran population. This mirrors the national trend of veterans being disproportionately affected by homelessness. Approximately 67% of the homeless in the region have served in the armed forces, their paths to homelessness often marked by challenges
such as combat trauma, physical disabilities, and difficulties in accessing the benefits and healthcare services they are entitled to. For those who once proudly wore their uniforms, navigating the transition back to civilian life can prove insurmountable without adequate support systems in place.
Senior Citizens: Retirement Dreams Deferred
For seniors in Central Florida, the golden years are increasingly tarnished by the specter of a lack of affordable housing. The homeless crisis is also a housing crisis. Representing 26% of the homeless population, many seniors find themselves grappling with fixed incomes that fail to keep pace with rising housing costs, compounded by healthcare expenses that strain already tight budgets. Many seniors wind up living out of their cars that have been paid off for years, which (as one could
imagine) takes a significant toll on one’s body, especially if they have preexisting conditions. As the region’s demographics shift towards an aging population, the risk of homelessness among seniors becomes more pronounced, driven by factors such as evictions, medical emergencies, and the lack of affordable housing options tailored to their needs.
The Mental Health Crisis: Self Medication vs. Self Preservation
Among the homeless population, mental health challenges are pervasive and profound. With 31% reporting a behavioral health condition, lack of funding for mental healthcare exacerbates their already precarious living conditions. Issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia are prevalent, often stemming from trauma experienced both before and during homelessness. The lack of
stable housing amplifies these mental health struggles, creating a cycle of instability and distress. Intensifying these challenges is the harsh reality that many individuals turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism, as they cannot afford insurance or self-pay options for necessary mental healthcare. Substance abuse becomes not only a means of self-medication but also a survival strategy on the unforgiving streets, further complicating efforts to break free from homelessness and access the support needed for recovery.
Youth: Navigating Uncertain Futures
In the midst of Central Florida's bustling cities and suburban sprawl, youth homelessness silently takes root. Accounting for 45% of those without stable housing, young individuals under the age of 25 face a myriad of challenges—from family instability and economic hardship to the absence of supportive networks that can provide a safety net during times of crisis. For many, homelessness becomes a harsh reality as they age out of foster care systems or find themselves unable to secure stable employment and housing in a competitive and often unforgiving housing market.
Challenges in Shelter Availability
Florida, like many states across the country, grapples with a critical shortage of shelter beds and temporary housing options. A concerning 24% decline in available beds exacerbates the plight of those experiencing homelessness, leaving approximately 743 individuals without shelter on any given night. This shortage underscores the urgent need for increased investment in expanding shelter capacities, improving access to reasonable housing, and bolstering supportive services that can address the root causes of homelessness.
Amidst these challenges, Central Florida’s community organizations, non-profits, and government agencies have rallied to provide support and solutions. Initiatives ranging from outreach programs and mobile healthcare services to transitional housing and job training programs offer a lifeline to those in need, aiming not just to provide immediate relief but also to empower individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity and self-sufficiency.
Collaborative efforts between local stakeholders and advocacy groups underscore a commitment to tackling homelessness at its core, advocating for policy reforms, increased funding for affordable housing enterprises, and comprehensive support networks that address the diverse needs of homeless individuals across different demographics.
As Central Florida continues to evolve and grow, so too must its response to homelessness. By fostering a community-wide dialogue and prioritizing compassionate, evidence-based solutions, we can work towards a future where homelessness is not a defining characteristic of our region. Empowering veterans, seniors, youth, and all those affected by homelessness with the resources and support they need is not just a moral imperative but a testament to our collective commitment to equity, justice, and opportunity for all. The changing face of homelessness in our state demands our attention, compassion, and collective action.
Through sustained advocacy, innovative solutions, and a shared commitment to addressing the root causes of homelessness, we can create a more inclusive and resilient community where everyone has a place to call home.
THE REAL FACES OF HOMELESSNESS
DONNIE’S STORY
Imagine a world where every individual experiencing homelessness has a path to stability and purpose. This isn’t just a vision—it’s a possible future, exemplified by Donnie’s inspiring story. From living on the streets to becoming an active community member, Donnie’s transformation underscores the crucial role that mental health support and community investment play in recovery.
Donnie is originally from South Dakota. Don graduated from Georgia State University and was accepted into the Peace Corps. He then got a job as a flight attendant with United Airlines, where he was employed for 12 years. His career with United Airlines ended with a manic episode that resulted from his bipolar disorder.
Donnie’s Path to Stability
Donnie’s journey back to stability began with a simple act of kindness—a meal and clothes provided by Matthew’s Hope. This initial support sparked a change, setting him on a path forward. However, Donnie’s story also highlights significant challenges, such as the prohibitive cost of mental health medication, which can reach up to $3,000 per shot. This financial burden is a stark reminder of the accessibility issues within mental health care.
Despite these hurdles, Donnie’s success story is a testament to the power of comprehensive support systems.
Up until recently, Donnie worked part-time at the Garden Theater.
Unfortunately, due to the Garden Theatre’s abrupt closing, Donnie no longer has that position. Donnie currently drives a bus for the Matthew’s Hope outreach program, giving back to the community that once supported him. His involvement in these initiatives not only aids his recovery but also strengthens the bonds within his community.
The Role of Community Investment
Donnie’s story is not an isolated case. It illustrates the broader impact that community investment can have on individuals facing similar challenges. Organizations like Matthew’s Hope are pivotal in transforming lives by providing consistent support and resources. Investing in such community-focused initiatives can lead to significant, positive changes for individuals and society at large.
Addressing Mental Health Costs and Stigma
The high cost of mental health care remains a barrier for many seeking recovery. Accessible healthcare solutions are essential to prevent cycles of homelessness and incarceration. Beyond financial barriers, the stigma surrounding mental illness continues to be a significant obstacle. Reducing this stigma is vital; understanding that mental health issues can affect anyone fosters compassion and support for those in need.
Employment as a Cornerstone of Recovery
Employment opportunities play a crucial role in recovery, as demonstrated by Donnie’s part-time job. Job training and placement programs are vital components of holistic support systems, providing individuals with the skills and opportunities needed to
reintegrate into society successfully.
The Power of Giving Back
Community engagement is a powerful tool in recovery. Donnie’s involvement in outreach work highlights the mutual benefits of giving back. Not only does it aid in personal recovery, but it also strengthens community bonds, creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
Donnie’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential for recovery and transformation through community support and mental health advocacy. By supporting local organizations like Matthew’s Hope, we can contribute to creating sustainable support systems that enable individuals to reclaim their lives and contribute positively to their communities.
Most of us have experienced the devastation of Hurricane Milton. The hurricane affected many of us in our community as some us were left without power for a few days and the storm kept us awake while causing some damage to our homes.
What about those in our community who don’t have homes? How do they “shelter in place” when they don’t have a shelter and now with the new laws in Florida that criminalize homelessness, they don’t even have a place. Where do they go? Thankfully, Matthew’s Hope opened it’s doors in Orange and Brevard counties to shelter more than 140 homeless guests.
Matthew’s Hope provided it’s guests shelter from the storm, warm food, clothes , hot showers, and most of all HOPE! Matthew’s Hope typically provides more than $41,000 per day in resources between it’s two campuses. However, when they have to keep the operations open for 30 straight hours due to the Hurricane, the cost increases exponentially. The food and services provided to the guests during the storm were thanks to the generous donations from the community. The Winter Garden Elks, provided cots and other community members stepped up with both financial and in-kind donations.
Denise Fisher, Special Projects Coordinator with Aflac and Matthew’s Hope Board Member, wrote “These homeless guests in the Winter Garden and Cocoa locations are safe, dry and no longer hungry for today and tomorrow. They don’t have to worry about everything they own blowing away or being stolen. They can sleep in peace tonight knowing they are safe, they are not soaked to the bone as they were offered showers, warm food and lots of love. Matthews Hope offers all of this and so much more”.
Further debunking the homeless myth that “they are just bums”, many of these guests stayed after the storm to help clean. It’s amazing what a good night sleep, food, and some love can do for these individuals. They were happy to “help us, help them, help themselves”.
The storms and inflation have really stretched our resources. Matthew’s Hope desperately needs to restock it’s Food & Hygiene Pantry. While we greatly appreciate the support during times of crisis and the Holidays, the truth is Matthew’s Hope has over 1,000 weekly visits by homeless individuals.
Many of our homeless guests left our campuses after the storm with the question “now what?” With growth in need surpassing all reasonable projections, and new laws recently being passed by our State Legislators that are criminalizing homelessness, Matthew’s Hope hands are full and are looking to our communities we serve to partner with us in our ongoing mission. Please consider making a donation. We greatly appreciate your support.
For most of us the Holiday Season is the same. Shortly after we finish our Thanksgiving turkey, we ask our children to make a list for Santa. Our kids rush into their rooms and make their list. Once we have the lists, us parents “help Santa” select the toys. We search for the best deals online and wait for Santa’s elves (disguised as Amazon Drivers) to deliver the packages.
On Christmas Eve, we go to Church, have a wonderful family dinner, and then we make Christmas cookies. Remember, we must save a few for Santa (with a glass of milk to wash it down). Then, we tell the kids to hurry off to bed. “Go to sleep. Santa won’t come if you don’t hurry and get to bed”. Finally, Mom and Dad help Santa wrap the gifts and hide them under the tree. We can’t wait for the kids to wake up first thing in the morning with the excitement that only comes from a magnificent Christmas tree with gifts stacked underneath.
All of this sounds nice, but WHERE DOES SANTA FIND YOU WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE A HOME? Who helps Santa buy the gifts? Does Amazon deliver packages to the woods.... And, you said “Go to sleep. Santa won’t come if you don’t hurry and get to bed”. What if I don’t have a bed?
For years, around the Holiday Season,
Matthew’s Hope has been helping struggling families provide gifts for their kids with the help of the community. But this year, we need your help as we focus on gifts for the whole family. YES, we will still be collecting toys for children. Dozens of local businesses have set up toy drop-off locations. These toys are being collected and will be delivered to Matthew’s Hope.
HOWEVER, we would like the community to understand the fact that when parents can’t afford Christmas presents for their kids, it most likely means they are struggling to provide other basic needs for the family. What does Christmas dinner look like? How long until the electricity is shut off? Can the family afford rent, or will they end up on the street? What about gifts for Mom and Dad who may be working two or three jobs and still can’t seem to get ahead.
This Year, Matthew’s Hope is launching its new Gifts of Hope campaign. Our goal is to raise $1,000,000 by the end of the year. Matthew’s Hope is happy to announce that we have a matching grant. We would like to thank you for continuing to support the kids in our community.
Each donation received between now and December 31st will be matched dollar for dollar up to $1,000,000.
Struggling families will receive $100 per child to purchase gifts from Santa’s workshop so Santa can deliver the magic of the season. We will be providing these families with additional support so everyone can have a Merry Christmas. Families in need, looking to participate and receive help with toys, please call 407-9059500 or email info@matthewshopeministries.org.
By Scott Billue
It’s been a long year, and I believe I speak for most when I say that I’m glad the elections are over. We began the year talking about the “criminalization of homelessness”, Amendment 8, and the cruelty of anti-homelessness ordinances. We spoke with dozens of politicians and asked them basic questions about the homeless crisis in this country:
1. What is the plan?
2. If there is a plan, what is it and when will it be implemented
3. If there is no plan, why not?
4. Their opinions on the new “anti-camping” law recently adopted in Florida.
If we’re completely honest, none of the political leaders we interviewed had a magical solution and many we spoke with were not even fully aware of House Bill 1365. However, we were thankful to those who had the courage to have an open dialogue. This is more than we can say for the others who didn’t even want to address the crisis.
Unfortunately, we live in a world where a gopher tortoise has more rights than humans. That’s right, in our weekly Podcast, “Straight Talk, No BS with Matthew’s Hope”, we discussed the absurdity that it costs upwards of $10,000 to legally relocate a single gopher tortoise while the same level of care towards a homeless individual is a bridge too far for most municipalities. Thus, our shock when we ask about plans to address the homeless
crisis… nothing but crickets.
We spent a great deal of 2024 attempting to educate the community and politicians about laws criminalizing homelessness. That’s right, many of the politicians we spoke with were unfamiliar with the bills they were voting on. We told them “Not here, is not an answer” and it is surely not a plan! And yet despite our efforts, the State of Florida did in fact criminalize homelessness when HB1365 went into Law on October 1. Our guests have been arrested for the “illegal use of a shopping cart”, “Illegal camping” and other “offenses” related to being unsheltered.
THE FIGHT IS NOT OVER! Even though we didn’t get the political results we hoped for, the countless hours spent raising awareness has helped hundreds of homeless individuals we serve each day. We are so grateful to the Brevard and Orange County residents who rallied together to help us shelter homeless guests during the recent hurricanes. We have received numerous donations from local businesses and individuals who believe in our mission to “help us, help them, help themselves”.
What’s next? As mentioned above, the fight is not over. We will continue to lobby for commonsense solutions to address the homeless crisis. At the same time, we will also work with our community partners to help our homeless neighbors. Sometimes this means a warm meal, clean clothes, a
shower, and a haircut. Other times, it means medical attention, mental health counseling, and a bus ticket. We will not stop. We’re committed to our mission, and we are blessed to have your support.
Matching Money! As a final note, through December 31, we have an opportunity to wipe out leftover pandemic debt. Recent hurricane expenses, and the strain of triple digit growth due to a matching grant of up to $1,000,000.00! If we can raise a million, it will be worth two million dollars to Matthew’s Hope!
For every dollar you invest, up to $1,000,000.00, an anonymous donor will match your investment into our mission.
Please know, we consider our donors and supporters as investors. You should expect a return on your investment in Matthew’s Hope and all the other non-profits you support. Follow us on Facebook, check out our website, listen to our award-winning weekly podcast, take a tour of our campuses, read stories about real people that your investment impacts in our Matthew’s Hope Moving Forward Magazine published quarterly. You are making a difference, and we are grateful!
May you have a Happy Holiday Season, a Merry Christmas, and may the new year bring you blessings beyond all hope or expectation!
