Jacksonville, FL – On Friday, December 19th, at 8:30 am, the Northeast Florida community will gather to commemorate National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day by remembering our neighbors who lost their lives before they could exit homelessness. This event is open to the public at no cost to attend, and will take place at City Rescue Mission, located at 426 McDuff Avenue South.
A meaningful tradition, this service precedes the first day of winter and the longest night of the year --- reminding us of the humanity we share, the need to work together, and the importance of strengthening our resolve, because no person should die for lack of housing.
Whether attending to honor a loved one or to show support for our community, Changing Homelessness and City Rescue Mission are grateful to the many stakeholders expected to attend including family members, friends, concerned citizens, community and business leaders, faith leaders and elected officials.
Confirmed program speakers include:
§ Dawn Gilman, Chief Executive Officer, Changing Homelessness
§ Paul Stasi, Executive Director, City Rescue Mission
§ Richard Preston, President, New Life Jax Recovery Services
“The annual memorial is a moment to reflect, grieve, and to recommit ourselves to the work of creating a community where no one is left behind,” says Dawn Gilman of Changing Homelessness, “Every name we read represents a life of inherent value, and we are steadfast in our mission to provide hope, stability, and dignity to our neighbors experiencing homelessness."
Those planning to attend are encouraged to RSVP at this link to help prepare appropriately for all guests.
Changing Homelessness leads the effort to end homelessness in Duval, Clay, and Nassau counties. In partnership with more than 40 member agencies and community organizations, we represent the Continuum of Care (CoC), working to provide comprehensive services and long-term solutions for individuals and families in need.
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