Raising awareness on homeless’ plight

Rev. Stacy Miller, director of the Welcome House, has held her share of fundraisers for The Welcome House Shelter, located north of Crowley.

This time her main goal is to raise awareness through the "City of Boxes" fundraiser set for Friday night. 

“So far we already have 65 people who have volunteered to sleep in the boxes,” she said. “While we are definitey trying to raise money for the shelter, especially with the winter approaching and the holidays getting closer; I think it’s important that people get the same experience for one night that homeless deal with everyday. So far we’ve registered 65 people, but they each have to sleep in their own box.” 

No cell phone usage will be allowed and a close eye will be kept on anyone trying to cause trouble.

The weather is also supposed to down to the in the 30s. 

“That just makes it more realistic,” said Miller. 

Among the items that those those sleeping at the shelter are allowed to bring are sleeping bags, large clothes and tarp in case it rains. Cell phones and food are forbidden; each person taking place will be given a sandwich and a bottled water. 

Miller, who has been at the shelter for five years, has seen her share of heartbreak but apparently the sense of fulfillment she feels when a person eventually leaves with a sense of purpose makes her job worthwhile. 

“Watching some of them getting their lives in order and putting God first is what it’s all about,” she said. “We are encouraging people to come out and see what the experience the homeless people go through is all about.” 

Those who show up Friday must register prior to setting up. A prize will be handed out for the best decorated box. There will also be a plaque handed out to the group that raises the most money.