Mike Blockson, affectionately known as “Mr. Mike” by Covenant House Texas youth and staff, has been with CHT for 20 years. For the last 10 years, he has served as the familiar face of our regular street outreach efforts. As often as he can, Mike leads his team through Houston, providing food, hygiene products and a listening ear for those currently experiencing homelessness.
While Mike leads outreach, he explained that it is the relationships his team forms with our community—schools, churches and other young adults—that allow them to do this work each day.
“We just go out into the street to talk with the kids that might not know about Covenant House, giving them some options other than being on the street or in an environment that’s unsafe,” says Mike.
Many of the young people facing homelessness that the outreach team encounters have had poor experiences with organizations and systems that failed to provide the resources they needed to create a path towards independence. When met with skepticism, Mike says the most important thing is to be consistent and understanding of their situation.
“We just keep going back and letting them know that we’ll be here for them whenever they’re ready,” said Mike.
On March 24, Sleep Out: Spring Edition participants will step briefly into Mike’s shoes when they embark on street outreach with him before settling in for a night of sleeping outside.
During what is the most impactful and memorable part of the night for many, Sleepers will serve those who are currently experiencing homelessness in the community and deepen their understanding of their needs.
Riding along with Mike, our Sleepers will not only comprehend the great necessity of their fundraising efforts, but will have an opportunity to witness the faces, names and stories of a population often unseen.
Staff like Mr. Mike—dedicated to our youth and committed to educating supporters on the realities of life on the street—are incredible examples of the CHT mission to provide the unconditional love and absolute respect those experiencing homelessness deserve.
On March 24, Sleep Out: Spring Edition participants will step briefly into Mike’s shoes when they embark on street outreach with him before settling in for a night of sleeping outside.
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