Before providing warmth, confidence, and care, familiarize yourself with the Kitsap Homeless Resource Guide and more information below. Be prepared before speaking with a homeless person to ask: How are you doing? There’s a food pantry and social services on Knechtel Way, and their porch pantry is open 24/7. That might be a great gift to them in itself. However, they may be passing through and are unaware that there is a resource only a few blocks away. 

If they say they aren’t interested, don’t push them. Unhoused people may have struggled with homelessness for some time and have had negative experiences in shelters; they may prefer to be out in the open. No matter what the reply, keep the interaction upbeat and respectful.

Always think about safety first. Never offer rides in your car to someone you don’t know, and never stand with anyone in a poorly lit place. If you feel unsafe, don’t worry about being rude. Just leave the situation. Your safety is a top priority.