Will You See Me?

It’s been said that, “There is no one so blind as he who will not see”. Sadly, however, we often look right through people as if they don’t exist or we dismiss them as if they don’t matter. When we do see someone, particularly those who stand at intersections holding signs for a living, we may be prone to assume the worst rather than viewing them as a human being and as an equal. Perhaps we may wonder, “Why don’t they get a job?”. Or “How can I know they’re not scamming?” And “Should I give cash only to support their drug habit?”. These are some of the difficult questions we must wrestle with and all too often it paralyzes our compassion and causes us to do nothing at all.

Rather than wondering or assuming what’s the rest of their story is, we decided to approach those who wave signs at intersections. This “Will You See Me?” project is not intended to either exonerate or vilify those who hold cardboard signs for a living. Rather, it is a tapestry of unique individual interviews and perspectives to help us all to have a better understanding of the circumstances of those who beg for our attention with the hope of being noticed and inspiring us to act charitably.

It is our hope this book will provoke us all towards compassion and a love in action responsiveness. It is to help inform us in how we might acknowledge another human being amid a momentary encounter as our harried busyness and the momentum of our commute is briefly interrupted as we are stopped at a roadway exit ramp or at an intersection red light and we suddenly notice a unique someone standing at the corner holding the sign longing to be seen.

These overlooked people, our modern-day untouchables who are so often stepped over or perhaps even stepped on, are not merely just an anyone. No, but like us, they too are a unique and special someone.

This book project is an outreach to those seeking help who hold cardboard signs at intersections. We are in the process of creating a book of photos and narratives detailing our learnings and experiences meeting with our neighbors in need.

We have completed 40 interviews and now need to raise $25,000 for the printing and publishing costs of this hardcover tabletop book that will not be sold but will be distributed for free to raise awareness about the realities of the hungry and hurting around us. Our purpose is to hear the other side of the story and better understand the needs and challenges of those who hold cardboard signs for a living and how you, and we, can help them.

The book is being authored by our Executive Director Reverend Shawn Morrison, with photography by Shawn Nielsen, owner of Nielsen Studios and narrative support by Elizabeth Korth, owner of Narrative Nuance.

We invite you to take a moment to preview some of the beautiful souls we have encountered who opened their lives and stories to us (below): Will You See Me? – video tapestry.

Watch the Kare 11 news story here:

A suggested donation of $25 per copy (or more if you are able) + $5 shipping is required to pre-order this important book.

A limited number of Will You See Me? books have an anticipated publish date of September 1st, 2025. Pre-order the book below!

Additionally, this project is receiving support from the “Mississippi River Flavor Company”, a spice company owned by Jaden and Erica Peck. Jaden and Erica have generously agreed to help sponsor a portion of the publishing/printing costs of this free book by offering a “Seasonings of Hope” spice for Good in the ‘Hood. Every bottle of this spice sold will receive a $4.50 contribution from them to support the project. This would make a great gift for yourself or someone else!

Other Ways to Help

MAKE CARE KITS

Making care kits together can be a great way to get your family or church involved in serving those in need. Please contact Jamie@goodinthehood.org to drop off care kits or to inquire how you can help with our work and ministry to those who are experiencing homelessness.

What to Include:

• Bottled water
• Large socks
• Soft foods (nutrigrain bars, bananas, fruit cups, oranges, apples, etc.)
• Hand wipes
• Sunscreen
• Chapstick
• Lotion

WINTER

• Wool socks are a necessity
• Hand warmers
• Hat/Gloves/Blanket/etc.

ITEMS TO AVOID:

• Razors
• Mouthwash / Hand sanitizer (or anything containing alcohol)
• Ibuprofen
• Full-size toiletries (travel size is easier)
• Hairspray

In our approach to homeless ministry, we view material goods as a means to initiate a connection with those in need, rather than an end in itself. Our ultimate aim is to offer something deeper and more meaningful: the gift of human connection and love. The giving of oneself is where the real transformation occurs.

BE A STEWARD OF KINDNESS BY KEEPING A FEW ITEMS IN YOUR CAR

Socks are highly valued on the streets and soft foods are recommended. Bottled water is helpful. We recommend using clear waterproof bags and rubber bands to hold them together.

MOVE FROM EXCURSIONS TO ENCOUNTERS

There is such a difference between just handing someone a pair of socks, and instead looking them in the eyes, asking for their name, and make conversation with them.

TREAT EVERYONE AS A SPECIAL SOMEONE

Your time is the most valuable gift you can offer another person. Write down the names of the people you meet. Water their soul with your words of affirmation and pray for them!

“Many people talk about the homeless, but few talk to them.”

Mother Teresa

Schedule a Presentation

Are you interested in having a representative from Good in the ‘Hood share our mission with your small group, class, or Church? We would love to send members of our team to share their stories with you! Visit our contact page to get in touch.

WILL YOU SEE ME? Order your copy today!

A suggested donation of $25 per copy (or more if you are able) + $5 shipping is required to pre-order this important book.

Note: All the images and stories in this project are being shared with permission.