Cincinnati, Ohio – For many, this time of year is full of celebrations. Jews celebrate Hanukkah, when Jerusalem was recovered and the Second Temple rededicated. Christians celebrate Christmas, the commemoration of the birth of Jesus. And Pagans celebrate Yule, when the Winter Solstice happens, marking the coming of longer days and shorter nights. For those struggling with homelessness, however, these long and cold nights are not times of celebration but deep struggle. For this reason, the date with the longest number of nighttime hours each year is also known as Homeless Memorial Day and is considered by many a national day of mourning.
Each year in Cincinnati, numbers of unhoused people die from exposure to the winter weather. That is why each year, The Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition hosts a memorial service on the longest night of the year, Winter Solstice, to remember those unhoused residents of the city who passed away. “Everyone is welcome. You can come and speak, you can sing, you can be quiet and listen. Come in any way that is meaningful to you” wrote The Homeless Coalition in an invitation for the event.
This year, 175 names were read at a candlelight service held in Washington Park, Over-The-Rhine. This list was compiled by friends, family, and organizations around the city that knew and cared about these residents. The service was attended by dozens of people, including from many faith communities around the city.
Whether or not you attended this year’s service or know those affected by homelessness, there are lots of ways that you can offer support. In Northern Kentucky, the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky welcomes material and cash donations, as well as volunteer support. Visit their website to learn more: https://emergencyshelternky.org/
In Cincinnati, The Homeless Coalition invites community partnerships, donations, and subscriptions to Street Vibes, a newspaper written and distributed by those affected by homelessness. They also host regular community-engagement meetings, where you can learn how to get more involved. Please visit their website to learn more: https://cincihomeless.org/