b'Charity disconnected from relationships is often more about the givers needs than the recipients healing. people to problemsdismissing their identity incomplexities of addiction and mental illness. Christ, their dignity, their full potential, and lifeHousing without care is a superficial fix that fails purposekeeping them from truly stepping intoto promote personal growth or responsibility; their calling in Christ.trauma-informed, wraparound services; and Instead, we advocate for:genuine relational engagement. Using Maslows hierarchy of needs, it is clear that basic needsCustomized pathways to stabilityWorkforceinclude not only physiological requirements development, job readiness, and education.(food, water, shelter, sleep), but also psychologicalCommunity integrationIndividualized caseand emotional needs for safety and security plans utilizing local support systems. (health, relationships, and employment). The absence of requirements for casework,Aftercare and ongoing supportA peer sup- treatment, or accountability often leads to stagna-port group, like an alumni association, thattion. Such dynamics can entrench victim-rescuer includes Christian recovery groups such aspatterns that perpetuate need rather than resolve Celebrate Recovery.it, urging a reorientation of social services towardPartnerships with churches and faithbasedempowerment and dignity. providersWhat if each church committed toRescue missions and life-transformation sponsoring one person who has completed aministries challenge the notion that housing Christian recovery program? While this doesalone solves homelessness. Instead, we propose not imply placing program graduates into pri- Healing First, restoring the person through vate residences, it does mean that the churchescomprehensive care rooted in Christs love.should be the Church: offering that koinoniaRooting out toxic charity (relational environment) as the ekklesia (aC harity disconnected from relationships is called-out assembly), and making disciples. often more about the givers needs than Public policy that affirms human dignity the recipients healing. Lupton quotes Not the one size fits all approach of simplylay theologian Jacques Ellul, Giving must never placing people in apartments with no support.degenerate into charityAlmsgiving affirms the superiority of the giver. This is a sobering A critique of Housing Firstwarning for Christians. W hile portions of the Housing FirstOur aim is a reciprocal relationship, not unidi-concept may be appropriate in somerectional rescue. We walk with people, not for cases, especially for those experienc- them. We empower rather than enable. Charity ing temporary displacement, it is insufficient asshould foster reciprocal relationships, not depend-a universal strategy. The Housing First modelency, and government should not overreach in neglects essential services and underestimates themeeting human needs. \x02 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG 41'