Churches in Pacific Presbytery Mobilize: Addressing Root Causes of Homelessness in Los Angeles

Addressing Root Causes of Homelessness in Los Angeles County: Churches in the Presbytery of the Pacific Mobilize

by Rev. Heidi Worthen Gamble, Mission Catalyst, Pacific Presbytery

Mark lived on the streets of Hollywood, well known by social service providers as one of the toughest homeless cases in the city. He was often found standing on a street corner, looking disheveled, staring into space. His looks scared most people away from encountering him. He arrived at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood’s winter shelter program called The Refuge with a blank expression on his face, unable to speak, after a desperate referral from a local social service provider.  Amie Quigley, Director of Urban Outreach at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood, through tears and a warm embrace, mumbled to him, “God loves you and we love you too.” Mark was given a clean bed in a quiet fellowship hall with a soft comforter and pillows. Later, he sat down to a warm, hand-prepared meal with several other guests, served with love, laughter and kindness by church volunteers. Read more…