Dear friend,

On the longest night of the year, communities across the country gather to remember people who have passed away while experiencing homelessness. This Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, I wanted to take a few moments to honor those who have died without a home, and to keep their memories close as we remember the lives at stake in our work.

Homeless service providers do their very best to bring unsheltered people inside with the limited resources they have. And on this Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, we recognize that people experiencing homelessness die on the streets every year, despite this incredibly hard work. We do this work grounded in the belief that no one should have to die for lack of housing. But when someone does die, tragically and unnecessarily, we take time to remember them, and bring their memories forward to continue this work.

I carry with me the memory of so many people whose stories I have come to know throughout my career in the homelessness field.

I am sure there are people in your own community who have died while experiencing homelessness – people whose memories and stories you also hold near and dear. Know that we are all together in this remembrance, grounded in the hope that we will not have to have to hold these vigils again next year.

On this Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, I am remembering all of the people experiencing homelessness who have died this past year. No matter who comes to mind on your end, know that we are united in our desire: that no one should have to die while experiencing homelessness.