Many of us wish we could relive the best day or season of life all over again.

But what if you were stuck reliving the worst parts of your life? When trauma goes unhealed, the past doesn’t stay in the past. It follows people into the present, affecting their ability to trust, work, parent, and thrive. If we were trapped in our worst days, we would pray that someone would see us, care for us, and help us find a way forward.

When women facing homelessness experience trauma, they get stuck in cycles that make keeping a job, housing, and caring for their children feel almost impossible.

They don’t just need shelter or food. They need relationships and lasting healing. But this safety and community is one of the hardest things for them to access.

I see the struggles women live with each day in my role at a shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness in Atlanta. Some struggle with addiction and mental health, but most women we serve experience relational poverty: the exhaustion of social support. Jesus reminds us, “When you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me” (Matthew 25:40).

When we care for women experiencing homelessness, we have the opportunity to reflect Christ’s love in tangible ways and remind them that they are seen, valued, and not alone.

You may wonder what difference one person can make. The truth is that God often works through simple acts of kindness, generosity, and faithful presence. You are equipped by God to serve women experiencing homelessness. Below are a few practical ideas:

1. Empathize and Acknowledge

I encourage people to see those facing homelessness as a fellow image bearer of God.

Though it may seem small, asking someone’s name or starting a conversation can have an outsized impact. That acknowledgement might be enough to motivate someone to get the help they need.

2. Use What You’ve Been Given

Most shelters have an urgent needs list on their websites identifying high-priority items. But you can give of your time by serving meals or providing childcare. Volunteer commitments can easily vary based on your availability. Start when you are available, and see where it goes! We’ve also had volunteers teach classes using their personal talents and expertise.

3. Offer What You Care About

Remember that unhoused women have similar needs as you. If you’re a mom of young children, you know that other young moms need diapers, clothing, and formula. Parents of older kids may have strollers, highchairs or other items to donate.

But also think about what makes you feel good. Women experiencing homelessness enjoy—and deserve—to feel good, too. Whether you like to paint your nails or wear slippers at home, donating similar items can bring comfort. Small gestures of care can make a big difference.

4. Invest in Relationships

We’ve seen countless clients paired with volunteers with similar interests. As volunteers and clients connect and grow their relationship, it gives women a newfound confidence and sense of safety—and launches them into success.

Authentic and trustworthy relationships are a powerful catalyst for change.

5. Think Outside the Box

Don’t feel limited by physical needs and volunteer opportunities. Struggling women need other women. And they don’t need grand gestures. They need steadiness and presence. They need care and service. They need a persistent voice encouraging them as they escape their darkest days and deepest hurts.

With our support, their best days are yet to come.

“Let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions” (1 John 3:18).

For deeper reflection, listen to 1 John 3 today!

Be equipped by Telicia on our interview!