homeless ministry coordinator: rose

For the last five years, Rose has been involved with M.I.S.S.I.O.N.A2, which provides emergency shelter, transitional living, housing, crisis intervention and advocacy, violence prevention education, and other services. She brings an unique perspective to the problem of homelessness in our community having lived on the streets for a period of time.

“Sometimes, it’s obvious: tents clustered in the triangle-shaped islands in the woods, or makeshift shelters built with wood and rope and tarps. Other times, it’s less clear: a pile of clothes in the back seat of a car but no indication of a person beneath them” — Rose quietly says to a team member over coffee and a diet coke.

Billy, a homeless friend of Rose said: "When you are on the streets you think “normal” people either can't see you or they hate you. I've seen homeless people spat at, shouted at or battered by pissed men in suits.  But, maybe those actions said a lot more about them than my homelessness said about me. Rose has always treated me with respect and kindness.”

As board member for M.I.S.S.I.O.N.A2, the uniqueness of Rose’s life experiences frequently shift to thoughts and conversations focusing more pointedly on a lack of financial resources and volunteers to staff the city's homeless centers. Rose notes: “Bureaucratic hurdles have made it more difficult for those living in poverty.“ The real desire, is to get as many people as possible, as fast as possible, into permanent housing — but it takes time.

And yet, homelessness doesn’t define all of who Rose is. First and foremost, she is a loving mother and wife. An artist and crafter of all things that can be knitted, jeweled, crocheted and painted. And, on top of that, Rose is an all-around pleasant, likable and helpful friend. As a former veteran, Rose’s well for service, sacrifice, dedication, commitment, and loyalty runs deep. The community’s homeless brothers and sisters refer to her as “Mom.” She nurtures ties to those in the community and spends time to be known in the community by volunteering at temporary shelters — even though she is “housed.”

At Journey of Faith, Rose has the role of mission intern for the church’s homelessness ministry. She’s full of ideas and will pursue any lead that helps the church more effectively meet needs. She means to help end homelessness, one person at a time. And, do it in a way that’s makes people feel valued and “at home” on their journey.

You can reach Rose at:  jofdisciples@gmail.com