Miracle Hill CEO Takes on Freezing Challenge for Homelessness

News Summary

Ryan Duerk, CEO of Miracle Hill Ministries, is undertaking a 24-hour challenge in freezing temperatures to raise awareness about homelessness in Greenville. Starting January 22, he will sit outside the Greenville Rescue Mission in extreme cold conditions to highlight the struggles faced by those without shelter. This initiative aims to foster community dialogue and support for the homeless, underscoring urgent needs during winter months. Duerk’s efforts join a larger movement across North and South America, as local organizations collaborate to combat the growing homelessness crisis.

Greenville’s Cold Call to Action: Miracle Hill CEO Takes on Freezing Challenge for Homelessness

In a bold move to raise awareness for homelessness, the CEO of Miracle Hill Ministries, Ryan Duerk, is gearing up for an extraordinary challenge right in the heart of Greeneville. Starting at 3 p.m. on January 22 and lasting a full 24 hours until January 23, Duerk will be taking a seat on a bench outside the Greenville Rescue Mission, braving the bitter cold that’s expected to hit the Upstate, with forecasted highs of 34 degrees and lows plunging down to 19 degrees. As the area is currently under a cold weather advisory, this endeavor isn’t just a spectacle—it’s a heartfelt call to action.

Shining a Light on the Realities of Homelessness

The purpose of Duerk’s freezing feat is to highlight the harsh conditions that homeless individuals face during the winter months. Each night, roughly 650 individuals rely on Miracle Hill’s shelters, programs, or transitional houses for support. Additionally, Miracle Hill has facilities prepared to accommodate hundreds more during cold snaps, as the organization is known as the largest provider of residential services for the homeless in the Upstate.

January is typically noted as the coldest month, making it a particularly dangerous time for those living without stable shelter. Duerk hopes that by engaging with the community—sharing personal stories and inviting input from local leaders, those who have experienced homelessness, and churches—he can foster a broader dialogue about the pressing issue of homelessness in the region.

A Collective Effort to Tackle Homelessness

This initiative joins a greater movement, aligning with 17 other rescue missions across North and South America, all aiming to amplify the message about homelessness through similar 24-hour sitting challenges. Participants can tune in to a live stream of Duerk’s experience on platforms like Facebook and YouTube, bringing the issue straight to viewers from the comfort of their homes.

It’s important to remember that homelessness doesn’t discriminate; it affects individuals of all ages, races, and economic backgrounds. As Duerk points out, many Americans are just one paycheck away from facing this grim reality due to unexpected circumstances.

Local Data Highlights the Need for Action

127 individuals sought refuge at the warming center at Hope Missions in downtown Anderson, demonstrating the urgent need for more services. Miracle Hill isn’t just about providing a bed; their support extends to helping individuals transition into stable living situations. By offering counseling, personal development programs, and addiction recovery services, the organization aims to address the intricate challenges many individuals face, like mental health issues, family breakdowns, and a dire lack of affordable housing.

Affordability is a huge barrier for many striving to secure housing, even those who are employed. In Greenville, for instance, workforce housing availability is perilously low, exacerbating an already significant homelessness problem.

Rising Homelessness Numbers Nationwide

18% increase in homelessness from last year to this year, amounting to over 770,000 people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2024. In a compassionate response, Miracle Hill Ministries provided over 205,246 shelter beds and served more than 353,140 meals last year alone. Their efforts also included providing 12,311 cold-weather beds and supporting thousands of individuals in various capacities.

Community Involvement is Key

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HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

• Greenville Online: Ryan Duerk’s 24 Hours Challenge
• Greenville Journal: 24 Hours on the Bench
• Fox Carolina: Miracle Hill Ministries Livestream
• Herald Banner: Cold Weather Relief for Homeless
• Wikipedia: Homelessness

Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE

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