Who is Homeless?
The homeless includes anyone who does not have a "primary residence" of their own in which to live. Even if a person has somewhere to stay, if it isn't his or her own, then the person is technically "homeless". A good example of this is when a single mother moves back in with her parents. If there is more than one family living in a "single family dwelling", then one of the families falls under the definition of "homeless".
Why are people homeless?
Many reasons exist as to why people are homeless. Each resident at Bethlehem House has a different story. The myth that most people believe is that most homeless people are drunken bums, on drugs, or mentally incompetent. While a certain number of this type of homeless person does exist, they are not the majority. As the cost of housing and unemployment rates rise, so does the likelihood of homelessness. Many people who find themselves homeless simply had "the money run out before the month did" too many times. Additionally, there are many who have had a catastrophic illness or accident that took away all of their resources, and so they were left homeless. More people live paycheck to paycheck in the United States than most of us realize. Many years ago, a former director, when asked about what homelessness looks like, replied, "Look in the mirror." In other words, anyone, at any time, could become homeless if circumstances worked against them.
Does Conway have homeless?
Many people in Conway say that there are no homeless here, or are shocked when they learn how many people Bethlehem House serves in a year. This community has been fortunate in that we rarely see people digging in trash cans, living in cardboard boxes, or sleeping beside the railroad tracks or in doorways. After all, doesn't that describe most people's picture of the homeless? Conway has also been fortunate in that the United Way has such a large presence here. The United Way has helped to relieve some of the problems associated with homelessness and poverty through agencies such as Bethlehem House, Community Action Program of Central Arkansas (CAPCA), Women's Shelter, and many others. It seems to be part of human nature that if people don't see a problem, then it must not exist: "Out of sight, out of mind." One look at Bethlehem House's annual report proves otherwise. If there were no problem, this agency would not exist.
Who uses Bethlehem House?
Since the facility is located in Faulkner county, most of the residents are from inside the county. However, Bethlehem House is one of the few places in Arkansas where families can stay together, so there have been people from many other counties and even other states who have stayed at the House. No stipulation exists as to gender, race, ethnic origin, or marital status. All those in need are welcome.
What does Bethlehem House do?
Bethlehem House exists to assist those who are "down on their luck"; those for whom life has had more misfortune than fortune. It is a program designed to help people learn to take care of themselves and their families (if they have one). Bethlehem House always seeks "to offer a hand up, not a hand out." Though food baskets are given as part of a homelessness prevention strategy, the true purpose of Bethlehem House is to teach people how to live successfully on their own. A resident may stay at the House for up to three years. During that time, he or she must be working, attending school, or drawing disability. He or she must save half of any income, and must obey the rules of the House, which include cleaning the kitchen, helping with food at mealtimes, and keeping living areas clean. Residents must also practice clean living; drunkenness or the use of illegal drugs is not permitted. Bethlehem House staff seek to guide the residents in becoming better people through counseling, job seeking guidance and training, and many other areas of human services.
Are you church affliliated?
The roots of Bethlehem House are based in faith. Most of the board members and employees are motivated by their faith to serve the homeless. Bethlehem House is supported by many people of faith and by many local churches. However, Bethlehem House is not part of a specific church organization, and does not answer to a specific creed or association. It has no formal ties with any particular denomination.
Who supports Bethlehem House?
The single largest monetary supporter of Bethlehem House is the United Way of Faulkner County. Bethlehem House has also been the recipient of numerous grants from federal, state, and local governements as well as private organizations. However, even with grants and United Way funds, Bethlehem House would not exist without a host of individuals, families, and churches who provide financial and other support. One of the most dedicated groups of supporters are those who participate in "Adopt-a-Meal", in which one meal per month is provided for all the residents by an individual, family, or organization. Local restaurants, businesses, and civic organizations have also been very generous to Bethlehem House. As successful as the House has been, there is always the need for more support so that services can be expanded and more people helped. Visit the "How Can I Help?" or "Make a Donation" pages to do your part in serving the less fortunate.
Can I get a free meal?
Absolutely! Bethlehem House serves a meal to those in need daily at 6:00 PM. During our non-resident service hours, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM, we offer food boxes with several days of supplies to individuals or families. Additionally, shower facilities, a washing machine, and free clothing are available on a case by case basis. All of these services are part of our mission to help the homeless, which includes prevention.