Melvin is a people person. He likes talking, and after sitting with him for a few minutes, you feel like you’ve known him for years. So when he came into Health Care for the Homeless a few months ago for a check-up with his medical provider, it wasn’t too surprising that he told us he was loving his new found career in sales.
Remember: The person with lived experience is the expert on what they need. Get consent before taking action.
If you are approached by, or come across someone who might need help, ask them how they are, what they need and be sure to listen. If you feel comfortable, you can say something like:
“How are you?” I “What do you need?” I “I have an extra water bottle. Would you like it?”