Most people experiencing homelessness go days without hearing their own name. You can’t fix housing in five minutes, but you can end someone’s invisibility on your commute.
Learn One Name
Introduce yourself to the person you pass every day. Use their name every time after that.
What you'll need
- Nothing but your own name
What to say
"Hey, I'm Alex. I pass you most mornings and realized I never asked your name."
Pitfalls
- Don't lead with money. Lead with the introduction.
- Don't quiz them about their story. A name is enough for day one.
- Don't drop the habit after a week. Coming back and saying it again is what actually makes it count.
I have called you by name; you are mine. — Isaiah 43:1