Lee County Veterans Outreach Inc. Is an organization to benefit Homeless Citizens of Lee County, Florida...

Sara Cacciolfi, director of the Lee County Veterans Outreach Inc, and her wonderful dedicated volunteers (pictured below) cook and serve for 120-170 (sometimes more) citizens every Wednesday. If you would like more information how you can help this organization by donating food, clothing, etc., e-mail Sara.

So you want to help...
You see someone holding up a sign, "Will work for food". What do you do? Do you give money? Do you ignore them? There are homeless Vets & others out there and you want to treat them justly and fairly. Their needs may seem overwhelming but here are a few things you can do to help.

1. Do not give cash to a homeless person. Even though the "hard luck" stories they tell may be true, the well intended gift of money is too easily converted to drugs or alcohol. If the Vet is hungry, buy him a sandwich and beverage.

2. All homeless people and their problems are not the same. Consider that the homeless person may be an addict, someone who is lacking job skills, comes from a battered family, suffers from combat stress syndrome, and the list goes on.

3. Talk to the homeless with respect. Taking the time to talk to the homeless Vet or others in a friendly and respectful manner can give them a wonderful sense of dignity and helps to fight isolation that many face daily.

4. Pray for the homeless. God can use your prayers to bring many of the broken to Himself. Long time exposure to the elements, dirt, street violence and a lack of purpose can drain years from their life.

5. Encourage the homeless to get help at a local Mission. There are Rescue Missions that offer immediate food and shelter to the homeless Vets & others through emergency shelters. Help support these local Missions. These missions are supported by caring individuals, businesses, civic groups, and churches who see the value of sharing their resources with the less fortunate Vets & others.

6. Most importantly - take precautions for your own safety. Though not all homeless are convicted criminals or fugitives, be careful while talking with the street wise people. Always stay in areas where other people can see you and if possible have more people with you. Never take unnecessary risks. If you would like to Help A homeless Vet or others email Sara using our contact form.