When trying to engage in conversation, you want to be aware and respectful of that person’s time. If they are occupied with something else, keep your interactions short, unless they invite you to engage further, and then check in after a minute or two to ensure they want to keep talking with you.

But if someone seems unoccupied, then please take more time with them. You can ask how their day is going, and if the conversation feels comfortable, you can continue. They may share how they got there.

Asking about how they plan to get their next meal can be a great segue into asking if you can share Street Care health or wellness information.

Finally, it’s generally good to avoid speaking too much at once, and a quick, low-key check-in here and there can help ensure things go smoothly.

Your listening can not only give you a better understanding of them and the community, but you might be the rare person who listens to them.

All in all, take your time, be kind, be respectful, and be authentic.

• – Be mindful of each individual’s time.
• – Ease wellness information into normal conversation.
• – Remember to keep it real and make sure the person is comfortable.
• – Homeless people really appreciate being listened to and heard.