#LetsMakeASEEN: You Are Covered Project
While working for UPMC, BethAnne Crawford began assisting with the program for military veterans.
“I was appalled that 40 percent of our homeless population in Pittsburgh were veterans,” she said. “This was ridiculous and I wanted to do something about it.”
Not one to sit by and let her fellow sisters and brothers suffer in silence, she decided to act. The holiday season was in full swing, and she decided, along with her daughter, to take all the money that they had saved for Christmas presents and do something more meaningful with it.
“It started with just bagged lunches and water bottles and holiday cards,” she recalled. “The goal was to let those living on the streets know that they were in our thoughts.”
But, as she started thinking about the cold winter months ahead, she challenged her friends and colleagues to buy blankets so that she could distribute them to those experiencing homelessness in our communities. “That’s how we launched. We didn’t know where to go, so we started with Downtown. If we saw someone in need, we would give them a blanket and some food and water. We wanted them to know that we had them covered. It became the You Are Covered Project.”
The organization, a 501C3, started with four volunteers driving around in her car. But now, as the group has grown, it has partnered with other corporations and organizations to help reach more people. Everyone is given one day of training before going into spaces. “We want people to be treated with dignity and respect. Any one of us could fall on hard times. We ask permission before we step into someone’s space,” she said.
For those who cannot be as hands-on, there are other ways to show support. YACP’s home base at Crossroads Church in East Liberty has a kitchen where their volunteer cooks prepare wholesome, nutritious meals, complete with dessert. They also help run the Free Store in the lower level of Crossroads.
“The community has been so giving and supportive. We want to empower our brothers and sisters with hope for a better tomorrow. We don’t pretend to have all the answers, but we have plenty of love to give. If you need a meal, if you need clothing or supplies, if you need our support, we are here.”
Ms. Crawford and her team also make calls on behalf of the people that they meet to help assist them in finding resources for support.
“I have learned that you need to meet people right where they are. If our love comes through a hot meal, or purchasing a tent, or finding someone warm socks, that’s what we do.”
But how do those in need react to these not-so-random acts of kindness?
“A lot of times people cry. I’ll give an example. One of the worst things about being a woman experiencing homelessness is having your period while living on the streets. Supplying feminine care products to those who need them is a way to create a sense of dignity. We are our brothers’ and our sisters’ keeper. We are here for you.”
And what has Ms. Crawford learned in the wake of this experience? “I am blown away by the love and generosity of Pittsburghers. When we ask, people give. That’s what community is all about.”
Want to get involved? While volunteers are always appreciated, adult backpacks are in short supply. New undergarments for all people are appreciated, as are warm socks. Connect with YACP at yacp.info or call 412-867-7590. Together,