Why Words?
For those of us who have ever experienced homelessness and/or domestic violence, our words are too often left behind, minimized, disregarded by our abusers, our families, our friends, our communities, our governments…. Words are our power. Words not only communicate the depth and breadth of our experiences and journeys, they offer an opportunity for realization of Self in our own bodies and expressions. Words give realization to the individual. Words empower.
“If you have some power [resources, food, voice…], then your job is to empower somebody else….” —Toni Morrison
Where outreach organizations often focus on national and statewide missions, the Warm Words Project focuses on local efforts with a central mission: neighbors helping neighbors through acts of kindness created with preparation and engagement. There is no central donation center, but rather, an initiative built on an idea: people choosing to care on a daily and local scale. If you care and want to be a Warm Words advocate and begin your own outreach in your community, contact us. We would love to help you get started.
Create Your Own Warm Words Kit
Warm Words kits can be hats or blankets or bags filled with a small granola bar, small water, shelter information, food bank information and a small writing journal and pen because everyone’s words matter. Add a few dollars if you are able and inclined to do so. Write local shelter and food bank phone numbers and key info in the journal. Here is one way to package for easy distribution:
A beanie hate makes a useful and roomy “bag.” Tie the beanie and throw it in your car, your shopping bag, your bike basket. Keep it handy and easily distributable.
Throw a few Warm Words hats in your car. Carry one with you as you walk your dog. Throw one in your shopping bag as you go to the market. When you see a neighbor experiencing homelessness, offer a Warm Words hat. Encourage them to share their story at the Warm Words Project.