Project Homeless Connect on 4/28

Incredible, awesome, inspiring, humbling are just a few of the adjectives I can think of to describe the experience of serving the homeless on Monday. I was privelaged to work in the medical clinic with the nurses from Hennipen county Homeless project, who work in clinics that serve the homeless everyday. When I arrived I helped unpack supplies and set up a few of the stations. I was asked if I would be flexible to work in any area and I said sure.

I spent the next 7 hours in the foot care area. Basically I washed feet for 7 hours. We would soak their feet for 10 minutes and then they would be examined by a Nurse Practitioner or MD. Many of the people I saw were diabetic and needed special care to their feet. I washed, dried, applied dressings, gave each person a new pair of socks and sent them to their next destination. I truely enjoyed every minute. Every person was so greatful for the care, "My feet never felt so good" was the comment from most.

I was also able to talk with most of the RNs who work at the Homeless Clinics around the city and found out about other volunteer opportunities I can be involved with on a more regular basis. It was a day in my life I can truely say was well spent.

Jane Deckenbach

Tony and I plan to ride downtown on our bikes. I'm still trying to figure out exactly what we do with our helmets, shoes, etc., but I'm confident we'll find someplace to stash our goods (remember, they said not to bring purses, etc.) Maybe we just meet a "Weller" and throw it in their car.

Anyway, we'll plan to head out at 8:15 from the office, so we have time to stow our stuff, etc. There will be a place to park and lock bikes... Hope to have others join us!