Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau to Present at First Parish

The Common Hearth series at First Parish in Milton continues on January 23 with a presentation by the Massachusetts Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau. The program begins at 7 p.m. and will feature currently and formerly homeless speakers, as well as a facilitator from the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance.

Now in its third year, the Speakers’ Bureau is “committed to educating audiences about homelessness by sharing firsthand experiences, breaking stereotypes and misconceptions about homelessness, and inspiring audiences statewide with their calls to action.”  The program at First Parish will include interactive dialog and opportunities to ask questions of the speakers.

Several times in recent years, First Parish youth and adults have participated in City Reach, an urban outreach program of Ecclesia Ministries that gives young people the opportunity to learn about homelessness from people who have experienced it.  Through this program, First Parishioners have joined in street ministry, offering hospitality, food and clothing.  Working with the Speakers’ Bureau is part of the congregation’s ongoing commitment to care for those in need.

The presentation is free of charge, open to the public, and supported by a generous grant from the Milton Cultural Council.  The Council also provided support for a Common Hearth program in October that featured storyteller Len Cabral.

The above release was provided by Rev. Jamez Terry.