Jerry

I met Jerry about 4 years ago when I spent a night under the Broadway Bridge on a compassion field trip. He was friendly and clean and sober. At that point, he had been on the streets 5 years. In the past he had a drinking problem. He was a truck driver. He lost his job due to to many unpaid tickets. He apparently had burned his bridges with his family because of his drinking.

We visited every week for about three years. He never asked for anything. He was distinctive with his wool cap, grey beard, and camo outfit. He wore this all year, in the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

About a year ago, one of his kids took him off the streets, after 8 years. He aged into social security and was finally able to keep off the streets. We missed seeing him, but were happy for him.

I heard last week that he is in Conway General Hospital after suffering a couple of strokes.

I thought about how those 8 years may have contributed to his health problems. Yes, there are compassionate people providing food for the homeless, but too often it is hot dogs, pizza, and other not so healthy foods. There is a health price for eating that way.

It is nice when we are able to bring more nutritious food.

Say a prayer for Jerry.