Some practical points: how to address people on the streets

“I see so many people on the streets---in tents, at intersections, on benches, etc. I want to help, but I have so many things to do, and I do not feel comfortable around them all the time. What should I do?”

This quotation is a common sentiment these days. Compassion in our hearts wants to help, but our instincts and other obligations tell us otherwise. There are some easy steps to merge the two, gain your own confidence with people on the streets, and make a positive difference in someone’s life.

Before beginning, it is important to note that the streets are as diverse a place for personalities as a place can be. Some people can be quiet, others talkative; some polite, others frank; some trustful, others cautious. The one, broad-stroke statement that does apply is this: each person is human with human needs to be seen, known, and loved. Regardless of the outset, this is the fact of the matter and the reason why we learn how to address people on the streets.

#0 A smile passing by matters

Some people on the streets go days without a pleasant human encounter. They may contribute to this with poor behavior, sure, but imagine the hardness that would build up in your heart from a hundred bad human encounters in a day. Break that cycle, and simply make eye contact, smile and say hello to someone you do not intend on visiting.This will build your courage to interact next time and dignify the other in the meantime.

#1 Get to know ONE Person 

The amount of tents and people on the streets are daunting. You do not need to encounter everyone, but start with ONE person on the streets. Broken relationships are an epidemic of the streets, similar to drugs and mental health. Becoming a friend to ONE person leaves an impact that is desperately needed and attainable. Be smart, and do not cross any boundaries you wouldn’t cross with a stranger in the grocery store. Becoming a friend takes time and reoccurrence. It may help to find someone on or near your routes of life to make it easier to revisit them. 

#2 Start with socks…

One humble way to start a conversation with someone on the streets is an offer of socks, hand warmers or coffee. People crave these in cold, wet Portland, and their use is pragmatic. Beyond practicality though, they make introductions easy.

#3 Names are precious

 Ask and remember a person’s name. Repeating it three times in the first conversation is a great memory trick. If you make a mistake or forget, practice humility by asking again. 

#4 Learning about a human like a human

Avoid a forensic scene interrogation or a kindercare visit. Introduce yourself casually and get to know where that person is from, how long they have been in Portland, and how their day is going. Pay attention and follow up on their responses. Practice getting to know a human with a life story, and you will realize, each person on the streets is exactly that---a human with a life story.

The streets are filled with stories worth knowing. Start small, gain a friend, and you will realize how great a blessing these encounters are in your life beyond anything you can give. After all, you can’t outgive God, who is in the person you are serving. 

God bless,

Jack

Jack Padon