A crowd this morning. And we laughed at how it felt like Trick-or-Treat.

 
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Dear Anonymous,
A crowd this morning. And we laughed at how it felt like Trick-or-Treat. Long on the treats I'm happy to report.
Someone was disgruntled that so-and-so got a coffee card and 'he don't deserve it.'
Afterwards, after coffee cards are dispersed, socks find new homes, hand warmers are stuffed into pockets, gloves and pants are rifled through, I ask just a few,
What shall we do? Set up a table. With someone with a clipboard. And do extensive interviews to determine deservedness?'
Nah.
Not gonna happen.

Socks. Coffee cards and the connection to community.I am grateful for smiles this morning. There's always gratitude expressed. There is also pain and desperation expressed. Theirs. Mine. Ours.
Coffee cards and socks. Thank you Dear Anonymous, thank you.
And whoever left bags of socks at my door, thank you. Much appreciated and already distributed.

 

MaineWorks provides employment opportunities and second and third and fourth chances.

 
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MaineWorks provides employment opportunities and second and third and fourth chances. What can support in early recovery look like? Employment in an environment where everyone is familiar with the complex and individual journey of recovery, for one.
Support can look like helping to get someone situated in a sober house that works for them; sometimes as simple as getting them some clothes to start out with. Boots to work in. Safety gear. And urgently, a respectful space in a circle of people trying their damnest to make a new life. Welcome.

 

This young man stopped by for a hug and some blueberry cake and a coffee card.

 
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Dear Anonymous,
This young man stopped by for a hug and some blueberry cake and a coffee card. Speaking clearly. Excited about his apartment. Working with a case worker, and he tells me, 'Staying away from the people I ought to stay away from.'
Noticeably clear headed this morning and it was lovely to see him.
Meanwhile,it's damn cold. Mike has been wandering around all night. Stomach upset. Huddles into granite window ledge outside the coffee shop.Takes a backpack filled with hats and toe warmers to share as he goes along.
No lengthy conversations today...grab a coffee card , some socks, and hand warmers (thank you Dear Anonymous) and go find a place inside.