Tag: homelessness

Do more 24 Delaware 2026

Counting Down for Do More 24 Delaware 2026

On By cmanneringIn AnnouncementsLeave a comment

We are excited to share that 3B Brae’s Brown Bags is once again participating in Do More 24 Delaware, a statewide day of giving that brings neighbors, nonprofits, and whole communities together to do a little more good in just 24 hours.

As a Delaware-based nonprofit that delivers healthy food and simple essentials to people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity, this day means a lot to us. Do More 24 helps small, volunteer-driven groups like 3B stretch every single dollar a little bit further.

When it is happening

Mark your calendars: Do More 24 Delaware runs from 6 p.m. on March 5 through 6 p.m. on March 6.

For those 24 hours, we are asking you to “do more” with us by:

  • Making an online gift to 3B Brae’s Brown Bags through the Do More 24 Delaware platform
  • Sharing our fundraising page with friends, family, coworkers, and classmates
  • Cheering us on as we work toward our goal during the giving day

Here is the 3B Brae’s Brown Bag direct link, you can sign up to get a reminder right on this dashboard.

What Do More 24 Delaware is all about

Do More 24 Delaware's Giving Day will be March 5 through March 6

Do More 24 Delaware is like a big statewide kindness challenge. For one full day, people all over Delaware choose causes they care about and give what they can online.

It is not just about raising money. It is also about:

  • Learning what different nonprofits are doing in our state
  • Seeing how many people care about their neighbors
  • Showing kids and teens that their community is full of helpers

For 3B, this is a special chance to talk about hunger and homelessness in a way that is honest, compassionate, and never judgmental. We know that anyone can struggle, and everyone deserves respect, dignity, and something good to eat.

How your Do More 24 support helps 3B

When you give to 3B during Do More 24 Delaware, you are helping us:

  • Pack and share 3B bags filled with healthy snacks, water, and resource information for people who are hungry or experiencing homelessness
  • Provide simple to-go bags for Code Purple or Code Orange emergency sanctuaries and other local partners
  • Visit schools and youth groups to talk with students about food insecurity, kindness, and community service
  • Put real tools in kids hands so they can be part of the solution, not just hear about the problem

Your gift, no matter the size, turns into a real bag, a real conversation, and a real moment of hope for someone right here in Delaware.

Ways to get involved

Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing more about how you can join in, including:

  • The link to our official Do More 24 Delaware fundraising page
  • Ideas for classrooms, clubs, and families who want to support 3B together
  • Social media graphics and posts you can share to spread the word
  • Fun updates as we get closer to March 5 and 6

If you are a teacher, a student, a parent, or part of a community group that wants to connect Do More 24 with a bag packing project or a service lesson, we would love that. Keep an eye out for ways to team up with us.

Thank you for doing more with us

We know there are many great causes to support during Do More 24 Delaware, and we are truly grateful that you would consider 3B Brae’s Brown Bags as one of them.

Thank you in advance for your support, for believing that kids can lead, and for helping us make sure that more of our neighbors have something good to eat, something helpful in their hands, and a reminder that someone cares.

Stay tuned for more details, and get ready to do more with 3B on March 5 and 6!

Head Advisory Banner

Helping Our Neighbors Beat the Heat

On By cmanneringIn Announcements1 Comment

When the temperature spikes, it’s not just uncomfortable—it can be life-threatening. Extreme heat puts vulnerable people, especially those experiencing homelessness or without reliable shelter, at serious risk for dehydration, heat stroke, and other dangerous conditions.

At 3B, we’re committed to hunger relief and community care, and that includes looking out for each other when the weather gets intense. Whether you’re out running errands or volunteering, here are a few simple ways you can make a real difference during a heat wave.

1. Hydration is Everything

If you’re able, keep a few extra bottles of water in your car or bag. Electrolyte drinks (like Gatorade or Pedialyte) are even better for replenishing essential nutrients. Offering someone a cold drink on a hot day could truly save their life.

2. Share Heat Relief Essentials

A small care kit can go a long way. Here are some items that are especially helpful during extreme heat:

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
  • Chapstick or lip balm
  • Cooling wipes or instant cooling towels
  • Light snacks that won’t melt (granola bars, trail mix, crackers)
  • Sunglasses, hats, or lightweight clothing
  • Handheld or battery-operated fans (bonus if they’re misting fans!)

Even one or two of these items can offer real relief to someone who’s exposed to the sun all day.

3. Know Where to Send People

Many cities open cooling centers during extreme heat events. Libraries, recreation centers, shelters, and some churches offer air-conditioned spaces where folks can cool off safely. It’s worth taking a moment to look up local options in your area and save them to your phone so you’re ready when someone asks.

Cooling Center Locations:

WILMINGTON
📍 FH Wilmington Empowerment Center (720 N Orange St): 7:00 am – 3:30 pm
📍 Resurrection Center (3301 N Market St): 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

NEWARK
📍 FH Newark Empowerment Center (300 E Main St): 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

MIDDLETOWN
📍 FH Middletown Empowerment Center (44 W. Main St): 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Please take the necessary precautions to stay safe.

Interested in volunteering or donating supplies? Reach out to the Friendship House at volunteer@friendshiphousede.org.

4. Check on Your Neighbors

Don’t forget to check in on people close to home, especially:

  • Older adults
  • People with chronic health conditions
  • Families without air conditioning
  • Neighbors who may live alone

A quick knock or phone call can go a long way.

Kindness Can Be Life-Saving

Extreme weather affects everyone, but it hits hardest for those already struggling. Whether it’s hunger, homelessness, or health challenges, the summer heat makes tough situations even tougher.

If you’re in a position to help, even in small ways, you’re part of the solution. And if you or someone you know is in need, we’re here. [Insert contact info or link to services here.]

Stay safe, stay cool, and thank you for being part of a caring community. 💛

A man in a coat laying on a sidewalk with a sign that says help

The Harsh Reality of Winter for the Vulnerable

On By cmanneringIn Real LifeLeave a comment

Winter poses a significant threat to those without a stable home. The National Coalition for the Homeless notes that extreme cold weather can lead to life-threatening conditions like hypothermia and frostbite, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. For those living on the streets, the cold is not just an inconvenience; it’s a matter of survival. Shelters often become overwhelmed, and many are left to brave the elements.

A man in a coat laying on a sidewalk with a sign that says help

Food Insecurity in the Cold

The cold months also bring a unique set of challenges for food-insecure households. As reported by Axios, the combination of severe winter conditions and rising food prices creates a dire situation for vulnerable populations. Families must choose between keeping the heat on or buying groceries, a decision that can lead to dangerous health outcomes, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Resources in Delaware

  • DE 211: Delaware 2-1-1 stands as a vital lifeline for those grappling with homelessness and food insecurity. This free, confidential referral and information helpline connects individuals and families to essential health and human services across Delaware and Salem County, NJ.
  • Food Bank of Delaware: Through a network of community partners, the Food Bank of Delaware distributes food to over 114,000 food-insecure individuals, providing a critical lifeline during the winter months.
  • Friendship House of Delaware: Offers a range of services to support those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. From providing meals and emergency housing to facilitating access to medical care and community engagement, Friendship House embodies the spirit of compassion and empathy, ensuring that no one has to face the harsh winter alone.

Resources in Pennsylvania

  • PA 211: This service offers a comprehensive list of extreme weather shelters across Pennsylvania, including locations like Second Avenue Commons in Pittsburgh, which provides winter shelter and overflow options during severe weather conditions.
  • Delaware County: The county’s Homeless Services Coalition and Continuum of Care work to ensure barrier-free access to services for the homeless, including emergency shelters and rapid rehousing programs.
  • Philadelphia: Organizations like Project HOME and Philly House offer emergency shelters specifically for men and families, respectively, with extended capacity during Code Blue conditions.

Resources in Maryland

  • Maryland Department of Human Services: While the Bureau of Homeless Services has moved to the Department of Housing and Community Development, resources like the Maryland Community Services Locator and Maryland 2-1-1 remain available for those in need of assistance with housing, utilities, and food.
  • Deep Roots, Clairvaux Farm: Located in Earleville, MD, this facility provides transitional housing for families with children. It offers up to 12 apartments and support services.

The Need for Comprehensive Support

The challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity during winter are multifaceted. Beyond immediate shelter and food, there’s a need for comprehensive social support systems that address the underlying issues driving these crises. Poverty, unemployment, housing affordability, healthcare access, and racial inequities all contribute to the persistent problem of food insecurity and homelessness.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, remember that help is just a call or message away. Together, we can make a difference, one warm meal and one safe night at a time.

Record breaking frigid temperatures

On By cmanneringIn 3B Outreach, Real LifeLeave a comment

dyav-wowsaadcyfWhat are they calling it? An arctic vortex? I don’t know what it is, I’m not a meteorologist, but it’s cold, it’s really cold. And it’s not just here in Delaware. Birmingham, Alabama got snow yesterday! The wind chill is -65 degrees in parts of the midwest. Even New Orleans, Louisiana is opening shelters for the homeless to keep them out of the cold, they call it their Citywide Freeze Plan. Cold, scary times.

While Delaware isn’t getting the snow and isn’t currently -50 degrees, it is still wicked cold and our hearts go out to all of our addressless friends who are struggling.

In Delaware, when the temperatures are frigid it is called a Code Purple. Essentially what this means is that emergency sanctuary locations will open for the homeless to stay overnight. The locations are typically open from 6 p.m to 6 a.m. and patrons receive a meal for dinner, our 3B bags when they leave and a bus ticket. It’s not enough, but it’s something and it’s currently all we can do. There are not enough shelters to hold all of our homeless.

An addressless man sitting on a yellow plastic bag in the snow.The emergency sanctuary locations are not homeless shelters. So when they open their doors, they are equipped with volunteers offer. The consistently awesome thing about Delawareans is that they are givers. I am humbled each and every day when I drop off 3B bags and see all of the kind people helping others. I am so grateful.

If you are unable to volunteer, please consider packing a bag of healthy food, water, chap stick, hand warmers, socks and hats and leaving it in your car. If you see someone  in need, then you will have something to give them. Please also consider calling 2-1-1 to find out where the nearest emergency sanctuary or shelter is located. There are often shuttles who will pick up the homeless and take them to the location. Local police will also take them to a shelter.

If you know people who need help and would like us to see what we can do please send an email. We will do our best. We hope you will as well.

Related News

Cold snaps can be death sentences for the homeless

On By cmanneringIn Announcements1 Comment

We recently read an article “Cold comfort: U.S. homeless shelters overwhelmed in brutal weather,” which shared how overwhelmed shelters are and not just in the US. For example, homeless are dying in places typically known for their warmth, like Texas.

Homelessness is on the rise in the United States, according to federal survey data released last month, which said 553,742 people lacked homes on a given night in 2017.

What most people probably are not aware of is that homelessness is very, very undercounted. In Delaware, for example, there is only one night a year in which the number of people on the streets are counted. This one night is called Point In Time (PIT). I don’t know if this is true across the country, but it is quite unnerving. Many homeless are transient, many homeless are not necessarily roofless. Many homeless youth are trafficked, receiving shelter for sex, yes even here in little ol’ Delaware. They will not appear in the head count of homeless people in the state. Hearing the number has grown nationwide, and yet is still significantly lower than actuality, well I find that unnerving.

The 2015 PIT Count in Delaware was conducted January 29, 2015. These people can be in shelters, motels paid by voucher or wandering the streets. On that date, 950 people were homeless in Delaware. Now this is what I know, the school district in which we live has a homelessness advocate who reported that their schools were dealing with 840 homeless families. How can one school district have 840 homeless families and yet the state’s PIT says there are 950 people homeless?

snowstormBack to cold spells… if we’re under counting, it makes sense that our shelters have waiting lists and are overwhelmed, right? Something to give thought, I suppose. Nobody should be left in the cold. When we provide people on the street with our 3B bags we include the names, locations and numbers to multiple shelters. We also let them know if it is a “code purple” night which means emergency sanctuary shelters are open to help them.

I think more needs to be done to understand this issue. We are helping with nutritional security and spreading awareness, but while the data is inaccurate, the respources given to foundations assisting will continue to be very low.

Delivering bags to EDR on a bitter cold November day

On By BraedenIn 3B OutreachLeave a comment

DSC_0005Yesterday I brought 3B bags to the Emmanuel Dining Room. My Dad, stepmom and little brother Michael went this time, too. There were a lot of people at EDR this time and we handed out 83 bags in about 20 minutes which is probably the fastest time for that many bags ever.

It was great to be able to help that many people. There were more kids this time, too. Luckily we packed some of the children bags which included books for the kids. I wish we had packed more. I saw one boy read his book while he was sitting at the table to eat. Later he ended up getting up and coming over to talk to me. So we became friends. He asked me how long it takes to pack the bags. I told him not very long. He decided to help me hand out bags and that was nice.

Also I saw my friend Tony again, he helps to organize things. He always asks me how I want to hand out the bags. Brother Miguel also came which was a surprise because we knew he had a memorial service to attend. It was good to see him.

It was sad to see kids not wearing coats. My Mom and I are going to look through our closet and see if we have any extra coats we can bring next time.

So I’m already thinking about the next time I can go help out.

You should be sure to tune into Fox News tomorrow morning because I will be on Good Day Philadelphia to tell them all about 3B.