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In large ways and small, by way of work or financial support, our congregationa is honored to support the following agencies: B.E.D.S., La Grange, ILBuilding Ecumenical Discipleship through Sheltering assists the homeless of West Suburban Cook County by providing overnight shelter, meals, and linkages to community resources.Beds Plus Website Link Beds Update
The BEDS shelter for homeless in our communities is currently in its 20th year. Our congregation has been a long term generous supplier of funds and meals, namely meals on the fourth Saturday of each month from October through April.
The BEDS organization is very appreciative of that help. Over these years BEDS has evolved from simply supplying food and shelter to a case management organization, focusing on the root causes of homelessness, mainly mental illness and substance abuse. Fortunately, the results of these efforts
have been worthwhile, substantially reducing the recidivism rate of guests, particularly the large percentage of veterans who are served.
The increased scope has prompted the name change, to BEDS Plus, reflective of the expanded valuable services offered. BEDS Plus has become the place to go on a short term basis when people want to overcome their homeless condition. It is a sanctuary for personal organization and redirection. The key to this is volunteers. BEDS Plus requires 600 volunteers, each serving four hours per month, seven months of the year. Currently, there is a particular need for site volunteers, age 18 or older, who have the ability to go to bed late or arise early. The training is short and straightforward. The benefits to humanity are great.
Should you have any questions please contact Jim Larsen or the BEDS Plus office directly at 354-0858.
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