[RELEASE] Homeless Memorial Day 2016

Who 
Hundreds of Philadelphians will join Mayor Jim Kenney, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, Councilman Derek Green, Councilwoman Helen Gym, Sister Mary Scullion of Project HOME, homeless outreach organizers and community leaders.

What 
Homeless Memorial Day Philadelphia, an annual event commemorated in over 150 localities across the United States on or near the first day of winter, recognizes those who have lost their lives while homeless or experienced homelessness. This year’s memorial will include:

• Reflections by Mayor Jim Kenney and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell
• A message of why we gather together by Sister Mary Scullion, Project HOME
• Stories of remembrance from Jaclynn Ries, Veterans Multi-Service Center, Jennine Miller, Project HOME and Dave Malloy, Northwest Human Services
• Role call of nearly 200 names in a solemn, candlelit ceremony by community members and Philadelphia City Council.
• Words of Motivation and action by Mel Wells from One Day At A Time
• The reading of “A Psalm of Lament” from The Welcome Church by Rev. Schaunel Steinagle, The Welcome Church; Rabbi David Strauss, Beth Elohim and Imam Salaam Muhsin, Philadelphia Muhsin
• Music by Magic Music Group and Circle of Hope

 
When 
Wednesday, December 21 at 5:00-6:00 pm
  
Where 
Thomas Paine Plaza, 1401 JFK Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA
(Rain location: Arch Street United Methodist Church, 55 North Broad Street, Philadelphia)

Why 
Last year in Philadelphia, homeless outreach organizations engage more than 6,500 individuals living on the street or in cars, abandoned buildings, transit stations, and other places not meant for human habitation. At least 15,000 people, including families, accessed shelter last year.

An important step in addressing homelessness is to assert the fundamental dignity of all persons who are in situations of homelessness and poverty, and to work tirelessly to protect their basic human and civil rights. A proper memorial truly nurtures a spirit of community and compassion for all individuals.

Click for more information on Homeless Memorial Day in Philadelphia and follow #homelessmemorial.

Opportunities 
Interview with Sister Mary Scullion
Photos and video of Mayor Jim Kenney, members of City Council and event speakers
Photos and video of community members taking part in candlelit, solemn ceremony
  
Contacts 
Becky Lang Staffieri, Mission First Housing Group
(215) 651-4858, [email protected]

Laura Weinbaum, Project HOME
(215) 439-1618, [email protected]