Five events in NJ: Let’s remember those who died and
recommit to ending homelessness
This month, local communities across the New Jersey will hold Homeless Persons Memorials in remembrance of the homeless who have passed away over the past year due to the lack of shelter or health care. For many, this memorial is the only recognition of their passing often from exposure to the outside elements, illnesses and chronic health problems that go untreated and violent hate crimes.
This year’s date, Wednesday, December 21, 2011, is the day with the least amount of light and also has the longest night. At this time of year, as many of us prepare for holiday and end of the year celebrations, this day, while bittersweet, is an opportunity to think of and assist the individuals and families among us who will experience homelessness this winter. These memorials remind us that healthcare and housing is a human right that many of us take for granted. The arrival of long, cold winter nights reminds us of the growing problem of homelessness in NJ.
Read below about how you can participate in a memorial in your local area. If we missed any events please send us an email so we can update the calendar.
- Atlantic City: A Homeless Person’s Memorial & Candlelight Vigil will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, 2009 Bacharach Boulevard, Atlantic City. For more details, click here.
- Bergen County: A Homeless Memorial event will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center, 120 S. River Street, Hackensack. Click here for a flyer with more details.
- Camden: A Homeless Memorial Vigil will be held at 3:00 p.m. at the Project HOPE Health Center, 439 Clinton Street, Camden. Click here for a flyer with more details.
- Jersey City/Hudson: A coalition led by the Jersey City Episcopal Community Development Corporation will hold an inter-faith Homeless Memorial Service at 1:00 p.m. (reception to follow) at The Church of the Incarnation, 68 Storms Avenue, Jersey City. To assist with the event or make a donation, click here to send an email or call 201-209-9301. For more information, click here.
- Edison/Middlesex County: The memorial event will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Edison Municipal Complex, 100 Municipal Boulevard, Edison. Click here for more information including donations being accepted and a list of supporting organizations.
Monarch Housing has joined over 100 bloggers as a member of Bloggers Unite who are committed to writing about National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day. The goal is to raise awareness about the high personal cost of homelessness and how we must end homelessness. Click here or on the badge for more details.
The NJ Advocacy Network to End Homelessness last year assembled resources that can be used in public worship over the sabbath weekend preceding December 21. To access this material click here.
