While the holiday season brings joy and celebration for many, it can cast long shadows for our neighbors experiencing homelessness. The contrast between festive storefronts on Franklin Street in downtown Michigan City and the harsh reality of not having a place to call home becomes even more stark during these winter months. This is why tomorrow night’s Community Candlelight Gathering holds such profound significance.
As part of our “Shine Light, Give Bright” fundraising campaign, we’re inviting everyone in our community to join us for an evening of unity, reflection, and hope. This gathering isn’t just about lighting candles – it’s about illuminating the often invisible struggles of homelessness in our community and kindling the warmth of human connection during the coldest time of year.
The event will bring together voices from across our community. Religious leaders from various faiths will share messages of compassion and unity, while community stakeholders will speak about the pressing reality of homelessness in our county. These diverse perspectives remind us that addressing homelessness requires all of us to work together, just as many candles combine to create a powerful light.
Thanks to the generosity of local business JOYRide, attendees will be able to enjoy complimentary coffee and cookies while connecting with neighbors and learning more about how they can make a difference. This kind of local business support exemplifies how our community comes together to support those in need.
More Than Just One Night
While the candles we light may only burn for one evening, their symbolism reaches far beyond the event itself. Each flame represents our community’s commitment to being a beacon of hope for those experiencing homelessness. As the only emergency shelter in the county that welcomes men, women, and women with children, we know firsthand how crucial this support is.
The holiday season can be particularly challenging for our guests. While others return home to celebrate with family, many of our community members face the harsh reality of not having a place to call their own. This gathering acknowledges their struggles while affirming their dignity and worth as valued members of our community.
The Candlelight Gathering is part of our larger “Shine Light, Give Bright” holiday fundraiser, which aims to raise $36,000 to continue providing vital services to those experiencing homelessness. This funding ensures our doors remain open 24/7, 365 days a year, serving as a constant light in the darkness for those who need us most.
We invite you to join us for this meaningful evening. Your presence alone makes a difference, showing our shelter guests that they are not forgotten during the holiday season. Beyond attending, consider making a donation to help us reach our fundraising goal. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps keep our lights on and our doors open for those seeking shelter and support.
Event Details
December 10th, form 6-8pm at Nest Community Shelter
Candles will be provided
Complimentary refreshments courtesy of JOYRide
All members of the community welcome
Together, we can ensure that no one in our community faces homelessness alone, especially during the holiday season. Let’s gather, reflect, and take action to support our neighbors in need. Because when we shine our lights together, the darkness of homelessness cannot prevail.
Join us in spreading hope, one candle at a time.
Note: Feel free to tag us on social media using #ShineLightGiveBright to share your support and help spread awareness about homelessness in our community.
