Monthly Archive for March, 2009

By Amy Peters

While the encampment under the Crawford Street Bridge temporarily shelters 15 to 20 people, the problems for unsheltered homeless people in Providence persist. The group, a number of whom have been sleeping there since January24, has recently come together to clarify their objectives: “Together, we chose the very wording of this message. We want affordable sustained housing, outreach and case management (for people sleeping on the streets), and enforcement of program assurances, including safety provisions in the shelters,” reported Megan Smith. “The tent city is a means, not an end.”  Like many individuals there, Smith works to advocate for the unsheltered. Continue reading ‘Need For Tent City Persists’

By David Eisenberger

On President’s Day at Beneficent Church, Project Hope held a get-together for about 250 people. Project Hope is part of the mission headed by B.O.W. (Beyond Our Walls) which is based in Barrington. Many volunteers worked on the cold, windy day, serving breakfast and lunch, and providing clothes, warmth, and energy to those who attended. 

According to Jan Malcolm, one of the founders of BOW, the organization started in January 2005 as a multi-faith outreach group. The group focuses on advocacy by volunteering. The creation of the group was inspired by a similar group in California. Continue reading ‘Project Hope Offers Day of Service and Hospitality’

By David Eisenberger and Jenny DiTomasso

Many people don’t know what detox covers, or what programs are available in the state. Furthermore, there is no clear policy at the Rhode Island Hospital Emergency for 911 calls concerning alcohol or drug addiction. Addiction is a chronic relapse illness.

A pilot “diversion” program is now getting underway said Dr. Nicholas Zeller, immunologist at Miriam Hospital, Dr. Josiah Rich of Miriam Hospital, and Jill Reuter, media relations officer of Lifespan. Continue reading ‘Few Options Available for Detox Treatment’

By Pamala Therrien

In response to the foreclosure crisis in Providence and a rally to stop foreclosures and evictions in January, Mayor Cicilline and Councilor Kevin Jackson have introduced two new city ordinances designed to keep families from losing housing. 

The first ordinance would protect tenants from eviction when their apartments are subject to foreclosing proceedings. The second ordinance would require financial institutions and property owners to engage in mediation with a HUD-approved counselor before moving ahead with a foreclosure. Whether these ordinances will be adopted by the city is still up in the air.  Continue reading ‘Protections Against Foreclosures Proposed’

By Tiffany Wallace

It was not a usual restaurant, in the sense that no one paid for food, there wasn’t a menu, and only one meal is served a day. However, there were servers, a chef, and guests. God was there, too.

I had never been to a restaurant like this before. It served clam chowder, fruit, rolls, an array of cheese, and even a snack to go. Guests could choose coffee or water. Continue reading ‘Kindness Is on the Menu’