San Bernardino, CA – In a startling turn of events during a regular outreach program aimed at feeding the homeless, community leaders Eugene Weems and Antoinette Pickette stumbled upon a shocking situation: seven children living in a graveyard. This alarming circumstance exposes them to numerous challenges and vulnerabilities daily, including the looming threat of sexual abuse, a reality that no one should have to endure. The awareness occurred during one of his meal distributions, where Weems and Pickette aim to provide nourishment and resources to those in need.
Weems, who dedicates his time and financial resources to addressing homelessness in the communities, was preparing to serve meals when he noticed unusual activity in a remote section of the cemetery. Upon investigation, he discovered several tents surrounded by thorny sticker bushes where two of the children played without shirts and shoes—ages ranging from 2 to 9—living among the gravestones.
“This is an unimaginable situation,” Weems stated. “We come here to help those who are struggling, and to find children living in such circumstances is heart-wrenching and unacceptable!”
Despite their best efforts to seek assistance from elected officials, Pastors and other organizations, both Eugene Weems and Antoinette Pickette found themselves feeling defeated and at a standstill, struggling to secure the necessary resources to help vulnerable families. The urgency of the situation prompted Weems to reach out to Dr. Gwen Dowdy-Rogers of Arrowhead United Way and Owen Duckworth of IE Rebound.
Upon learning about the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding the families, Dr. Rogers and Mr. Duckworth acted quickly to secure housing and support for the families with children. Their swift response demonstrates a profound dedication to making a meaningful impact in the community.
The discovery of children living among the deceased has raised significant concerns among local residents, igniting discussions about the underlying issues contributing to such a tragic plight. Dr. Gwen Dowdy-Rogers and Mr. Owen Duckworth are now calling for a comprehensive approach to address these challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of all families in need.
Weems’s outreach efforts go beyond immediate housing solutions; he encompass a holistic approach aimed at providing meals, new clothing, hot showers, and accessible health care to underserved populations across San Bernardino County, making sure anyone who needs preventive care, chronic disease management, mental health and or wellness services its available through Tri-State Community Healthcare-Mobile Clinic.
The commitment of leaders like Weems, Pickette, Dr. Rogers, and Mr. Duckworth exemplifies the compassion and resilience of the community as they strive to uplift those who are struggling and foster a supportive environment for everyone.
As conversations continue around this pressing issue, the hope is that other communities and leaders will unite to develop sustainable solutions that prioritize the safety and health of all families.
The initiative, aptly named “No More Kids Raised in the Graveyard,” aims to provide these families with the stability and security they so desperately need to rebuild their lives. The initiative’s founders emphasize that every child deserves a secure home, a fundamental right that is currently denied to these vulnerable families.
“The situation is urgent, and it requires a community response,” said Weems for the initiative. “We cannot do this alone; we need people to rally around these families and help provide them with the resources they need for a stable and nurturing environment.”
The initiative will focus on securing temporary housing, access to necessary services, and emotional support for the families involved. With the right support, these families can transition from their unimaginable circumstances to a place where they can thrive and create a brighter future for themselves and their children.
Community members interested in assisting this cause are encouraged to reach out and contribute in any way they can. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, every effort can help in making a profound difference in the lives of these families. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to provide housing assistance to families facing grave circumstances and everyday necessities during this challenging time. https://gofund.me/27eb38bc
