It is estimated that close to 17,000 people in New Mexico experience homelessness over the course of a year. In Bernalillo County alone, over 1,000 men seek shelter every night. Albuquerque Opportunity Center, a program of the Metropolitan Homelessness Project provides 74 year-round emergency night shelter beds that are available for homeless men. In 5 years of operations, AOC has provided almost 50,000 nights of shelter to 1300 men, 30% of whom exit into safe, affordable housing. Additionally, the organization operates a transitional housing program for veterans, provides respite care, and offers free voice mail service for anyone in need throughout the city.  Imagine applying for a job or housing without a phone.

For the past few years, my church (Shepherd of the Valley) supported Metropolitan Homelessness Project financially. In 2009 we participated in their annual Sleep Out, a night of sleeping under the stars to raise funds for and promote awareness of homelessness.

This year we are doing it again on June 10.  Gerry and the kids are joining me. I can't think of a better way to teach and show my children that they are blessed with so many things, yet there are those who are in great need.

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.  In 2009, I raised $940.  This year, I hope to break the $1,500 mark.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!

To find out more about the Metropolitan Homeless Project, visit their website at http://www.mhp-nm.org/.

-Lara

The Lord said in Isaiah 58:6-9:

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?
Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.
Then you will call, and the LORD will answer;
you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I."