Volunteers feed Homeless at "So Others Might Eat"

This year, both our federal and state budget deficit has grown enormously.  Programs are being cut, but we must never forget the men, women and children who sleep on the streets, especially during the winter season.

It has been reported that some 1.56 million Americans were homeless at some point in 2009.

In addition, with the recession and growing unemployment, more and more families are becoming homeless.

This year, city officials are proposing that on winter's coldest nights, the city should provide shelter first to those who can prove DC ties such as proof of a legal address.

Under DC law, the District must shelter anyone who is homeless and seeking a bed when the temperature falls below freezing.

But proving DC residency may become an oxymoron for thousands of DC homeless, and many could die on bitter, cold nights.

That is why it is critically important for us to not forget and to support our Shelters especially during these difficult winter seasons.

Turkey Trot So Others Might Eat

Homelessness is a serious problem in DC and the rest of the nation. In 2007, the number of homeless in the US was estimated to be 671,859  (National Alliance to End Homelessness).

It has also been reported that some 1.56 million Americans were homeless at some point in 2009.

So Others Might Eat at 701 O Street, NW., feeds over 800 meals a day.  But it's not just about the chow, it's providing support and service so that they can get back on their feet.

That is why RUNINDC is a strong supporter of programs like Back on My Feet

From the Nov 2009 blog re: Running w/ BOMF

Back on My Feet gives the homeless a second chance to regain control of their lives. The program's mission also exemplifies several of Runin DC's core values. The first of these is "reflecting on relationships" or seeing how we are all connected. Back on My Feet is not a handout; it is about partnerships and seeing ourselves in others. While running and training, the homeless and the trainers support and challenge each other to strive higher.

Back on My Feet is also about "understanding" or empathizing with people--no matter how different they may appear at first glance.

The neat thing about running is that it is a great equalizer. When we're running hard up a hill, it doesn't matter what socioeconomic status you come from. You are working extremely hard -- rich, middle class, or poor -- all of us have to climb the same hill and have to rely on our God-given strengths and stamina to do it.

Sasha Bruce Safe Homes is a wonderful program that provides homes for our young people. All of these programs also provide counseling and classes that can lead young people back to a more stable and supportive family situation.

Thanksgiving in Atlanta

Today, I flew to Atlanta on the way to Rome and ran the very last part of the Atlanta Thanksgiving Marathon with Jeff through the heart and scenic Atlanta -- one of my favorite cities -- and the one that I have loved since I was a child.

Yes we bandit the run, but considering my flight did not leave DC until 0700, and the Marathon started at 0800, this wasn't bad.

The weather was absolutely superb and the people who ran just as wholesome as hospitable as you might expect.

Then after the run and a cool down, Jeff took me to see the house for the first time and had a very sumptuous and ceremonial Thanksgiving dinner with Liz and family.  

Jeff and I have known each other for a few years since we served in GTMO together.  Shared stories of running in Cuba from the lighthouse to East Caravella and all those wonderful, salty sea stories from back in the day.

Meeting the entire family was a true delight.  It was nice meeting Liz for the very first time (after speaking on the phone for the last 2 plus years) and the children were all very well behaved and impressive.

Liz even asked me to say grace for the entire family which was a deep and true honor.

One of the best Thanksgiving dinners I've had probably since 2001 OEF cruise aboard USS John C. Stennis.

All this and the earlier run and made it to my flight on time to Stuttgart -- wow what a precursor to a joyful and productive trip.