Brighten the Corner Rejects Stereotypes Homelessness affects over half a million people in America on any given day. Many housed people have fallen for harmful myths about people experiencing homelessness. These myths and stereotypes have hindered people from helping homeless individuals personally or through charities such as Brighten the Corner. In this blog, we will … Read more
What is the connection? Homelessness and human trafficking are two significant and overlapping issues that impact many of the same individuals and communities. A government report states, “people experiencing homelessness—especially youth and young adults—are at increased risk of being trafficked. Conversely, experiencing human trafficking places youth and others at a greater risk for becoming homeless.” … Read more
We try to help them get back on their feet. Homelessness is a complex issue that affects people from all walks of life. While some critics may argue that providing necessities to homeless individuals like food, water, clothing, and hygiene products only encourages them to stay on the street, this is not an accurate representation … Read more
Why would they prefer to stay on the street? As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charity helping people who are experiencing homelessness, Brighten the Corner encourages unhoused individuals to take advantage of opportunities to enter a shelter. Of course, many shelters have long waiting lists, and they are intended to be only temporary solutions. Homeless shelters … Read more
It is more blessed to give back than to receive. We believe that one of the greatest joys in life is what we experience when we give of our time and resources to help others. As Mother Teresa said, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great … Read more
We are planting a seed. As Rabbi Harold Kushner mentioned in When Everything You Always Wanted Isn’t Enough, the ancient rabbis taught that every man should accomplish three things: have a son, write a book, and plant a tree. The reason is obvious: those are the kinds of things that can live on and bless … Read more
Money is not the only way to assist. We do need donations to buy food, water, blankets, and sleeping bags to share with people in need. But sometimes the most valuable thing you can give is your time. The other night, one of the homeless men we were feeding downtown kept saying, “Thank you for … Read more
One night I was downtown playing my digital piano in the park while others in our group handed out food. A homeless guy I’ll call “Ted” came and sat near me and started singing along. He was excited about the live music and said he could go get a guitar that someone had given him. … Read more
You don’t have to do some great thing. Just brighten the corner where you are! Have you ever wondered if your life really matters, if you’re really making a difference? That’s how one of our founders was feeling a few years ago. By all accounts, he was a successful professional. But he went to bed … Read more
In Florida, A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. FDACS’s toll-free number is 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) or information is available through the FDACS Check-a-Charity web page.
