The Micah 6 Project is an initiative that assists a person transitioning from homelessness to being housed. This includes case management as well as pairing clients with volunteer advocates to support and encourage them for the first 6-12 months of being housed.
If a person is housed, why is there still a need?
We know from our work with unhoused people that while we celebrate with them when they finally get housing (because it is definitely something to cheer about!) it is also a time of huge transition. It can be lonely, often folks are moving away from a community where they've lived for years to another neighborhood many miles away. They have to figure out a new life, a new set of life skills, in an unfamiliar area often without a support system. We aim to provide just a bit of practical support and lots of encouragement to help make sure the transition is successful and smooth.
What does volunteering with Micah 6 look like?
Ideally the volunteer(s) (could be something for a couple or a pair of friends to do together as well) will meet with the client several times a month to help them navigate in their new world. Discernible goals will be developed to work on together and the time commitment would likely taper off as the months continue. The program coordinator will provide needed case management to the client as well as support and information/resources to the volunteers. The volunteers are NOT expected to and should not provide financial support to the clients with whom they work.
What if I'm unable to volunteer directly with clients but still want to help?
Our clients have practical needs we aim to meet as they get set up in their new living space. You or your group could donate a kitchen starter kit, a pantry starter kit or a cleaning kit to help a client settle into their new home. Talk to the program coordinator for more details.
What do I get out the experience?
As most of us who have worked with the homeless community know, there are always blessings in return when we come alongside another person and help shoulder their burden for just a little while.
Those interested and who want to know more can reach out to Micah 6 coordinator Niki O'Herlihy at noherlihy@arundelhoh.org or call at 410-849-9412