CHUM Homeless Community Vigil

CHUM held a Homeless Community Vigil on the steps of Duluth City Hall this afternoon. This vigil comes as an effort to remember and honor the lives that have been lost in the homeless community, and also draw attention to the ongoing homelessness crisis.

“One of the really important things is that we stand outside in solidarity with people who sleep outside. There was talk knowing that today was going to be terrible weather and whether or not we would have a plan B and do it inside. But people experiencing homelessness don’t have a plan B. And so if they can live outside, we can spend the night. So I think this is powerful,” says Patrice Critchley-Menor, CHUM Board President.

Homelessness in St Louis County has increased 18% in the last year according to the January 2020 unsheltered survey. Most of this increase is due to a lack of basic, affordable housing.

“Today is the day that we honor those who have died. I’m grateful to the whole community for the support that it has offered come these past 50 years. This work is so important and none of it would be possible without the members of the congregations, members of the businesses, and members of our community who have supported,” finishes Critchley-Menor.

To learn more about CHUM and their cause, click here: https://www.chumduluth.org/