According to the Morning Call, a local newspaper in the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania, between January 1 -September 30 in 2017, a  coordinated entry system identified 1,032 households comprised of 1,380 individuals who were homeless in the  Lehigh Valley. Here is a breakdown of what the system found.

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• 656 adults

• 272 young adults between the ages of 17-24

• 452 children under the age of 17.

• 72 percent of the homeless individuals are female.

• 24 percent are male.

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In getting to know our street neighbors, conversations reveal that many who reside in the streets, under bridges and in the woods are employed or have a source of income, but due the the high cost of housing in the area are not able to secure housing.

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While we are working in unison with the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter where Pastor Arnie is currently the manager to find sustainable solutions, in partnership with Pastors Bob & Linda Rapp, we hold an event called "Stand Up Bethlehem". This event held on the second Saturday bi-monthly takes place at Christ UCC Church in Bethlehem Pennsylvania, and our street neighbors are provided a warm meal, clothing, hygiene products, health checks, haircuts, and spiritual support.

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It is our long term goal to fight for our street neighbors until each and every person is recognized as a valued member of our community, regardless of race, religion, or economic status.