Have you ever thought about sleeping outside in frigid temperatures? This is the reality for those experiencing unsheltered homelessness during the winter months. The freezing weather brings challenging conditions and creates a high risk of developing life-threatening conditions such as frostbite and hypothermia. To increase the awareness and understanding of those experiencing homelessness during the wintertime, Matt Talbot will be holding its second Shine the Light Walk on Sunday, December 8th at Antelope Park at 6 pm. This 1-mile walk is an opportunity to learn what homelessness looks like in the winter and how we can help. If you have questions, please contact Jenn Boettcher at jenn.boettcher@mtko.org.
Matt Talbot Hosts SHINE THE LIGHT Walk on December 8th
LINCOLN, NE –Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is hosting the SHINE THE LIGHT walk on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at Antelope Park to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people experiencing unsheltered homelessness during the winter. The 1-mile family-friendly walk is an opportunity for community members to imagine what homelessness feels like in the winter and learn how to help.
“One of our core values at Matt Talbot is compassion,” said Alynn Sampson, Executive Director. “We invite the community to join us in seeking to genuinely understand and help alleviate the suffering associated with homelessness, especially during the cold winter months.”
The walk will begin at 6 p.m. on the walking path by the South Antelope Park Enclosed Shelter near the playground. Free parking is available. A half-mile loop marked with luminaries will take walkers around the playground, Auld Pavilion Recreation Center, and Veterans Memorial Garden. Participants are encouraged to walk the loop two times. All registered walkers will receive a stocking cap and a glow stick to place on the HOPE hanger at the end of the walk.
According to the most recent Point-In-Time Count, Lincoln saw a 17% increase in the total number of people experiencing homelessness. Among all those counted, 47 individuals were experiencing unsheltered homelessness which is a 4% decrease from the previous year.
“The needs are ongoing and becoming more complex,” said Sampson. “This walk is a great chance for us to partner with the community and illuminate our efforts to defeat homelessness through hunger relief, outreach, housing programs, and substance use services.”
Organizers invite participants to bring donations of blankets to the walk. Donations can also be dropped off at Matt Talbot Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Visit mtko.org to learn more and register.