We can promote happiness in homeless services by creating opportunities for joy to help restore the full humanity of those we serve, reminding them that optimism and fulfillment are still within reach.
In the musical Fiddler on the Roof, there is a great scene where Motel the Tailor tries to convince Tevye to allow his daughter Tzeidel and Motel to marry. This is not something Tevia wants to do, and he shouts at Motel, “You are just a poor tailor, Motel!” Motel shouts back, with more assertiveness than he has probably ever said anything in his life before, “I may be only a poor tailor, Reb Tevya, but even a poor tailor deserves some happiness!”
A guest smiles while a volunteer serves them in Blanchet House’s cafe. Photo by Christine Dong.
This line, simple yet profound, carries a powerful message. It speaks to a universal truth: that every person, regardless of their wealth, status, or situation, deserves happiness and fulfillment. And this is just as true for those experiencing homelessness.
In our society, homelessness often strips people of their dignity, their sense of self-worth, and their hope. For many, it can feel like they are invisible. But the reality, of course, is that these individuals are human beings with dreams, feelings, and the capacity to experience joy, just like anyone else.
Happiness and joy matter in homeless services for many reasons.
Happiness Improves Mental Health
First and foremost, happiness is tied to mental health. Imagine waking up every day, unsure of where you will sleep that night, feeling disconnected from society, and constantly struggling to meet your basic needs. The emotional toll is immense, and often, these issues are compounded by the stress and trauma of poor living conditions.
At Blanchet House, we find ways to promote happiness and create a safe space where people can begin to rebuild their sense of self-worth.
Positive mental health and emotional well-being are critical for a person’s ability to accept and benefit from assistance. Happiness is not an abstract concept; it can mean the difference between someone feeling hopeless and someone finding the strength to take the next step toward stability.
Happiness Builds Community
Secondly, happiness is essential for creating a community and a sense of belonging. Isolation and loneliness are terrible consequences of homelessness and housing insecurity. But happiness is contagious. When we promote joy, kindness, and human connection in our homeless services, we not only improve the individual experience, but we also create a collective sense of community. Positive interactions and a culture of kindness can help transform a life that feels bleak into one filled with hope and shared humanity.
When we bring joy to people’s lives, we also reduce stigma. Homelessness can be deeply isolating, and the judgment and dehumanization many experience only reinforce their sense of disconnection. By promoting happiness, we challenge the negative stereotypes that often surround homelessness. We remind everyone, both inside and outside the system, that each person matters.
A donor wrote “SMILE!” on a care kit containing basic items like bath wipes, a rain poncho, a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Happiness Builds Self-Worth
In addition, promoting happiness can be a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of homelessness. Studies have shown that when people feel a sense of purpose, hope, and self-worth, they are more likely to take steps toward addiction recovery and self-sufficiency. If we want to break the cycles of poverty and homelessness, we need to give people the emotional support and encouragement that fosters motivation. Happiness fuels action, and action leads to change.
How To Promote Happiness in Homeless Services
But how do we begin to promote happiness within homeless services? It starts with a shift in perspective. Instead of focusing solely on the hardships and deficiencies of those experiencing homelessness, we must take a more holistic approach. An approach that acknowledges their humanity, their potential, and their right to experience joy. This approach requires empathy, creativity, and a commitment to seeing the whole person.
I’m proud to say that Blanchet House & Farm does much to promote happiness in our homeless services. During our meal services in the cafe, we offer live musical performances, special desserts, and holiday craft activities. We know that many of our guests delight in the colorful artwork that often adorns the sack lunches donated by supporters. Some have told us that they use the lunch bags to decorate their living spaces.
Our nonprofit partners also assist in our efforts to bring joy. Street Books set up their mobile library outside the cafe every Thursday so that guests can check out books to read.
In our residential programs, we know how important fun and happy experiences are for well-being. Many participants struggle to find hobbies and joy in sobriety after years of addiction and substance abuse. We provide social and recreational activities, such as hikes in the summer and tickets to local sporting events and performances. We even have a dedicated fund for these activities—the Erik Schram Resident Recreation Fund—named in memory of our former resident and staff member who passed away in 2021. Erik took great joy in our commitment to creating fun experiences for residents, and we know our continued efforts would make him proud.
A Peer Support Specialist comforts a guest at Blanchet House.
Everyone Deserves Happiness
Motel the Tailor was right. Everyone deserves happiness. Happiness should not be an afterthought but a priority. Because when we foster joy in homeless services, hope and dignity follow. Creating opportunities for happiness helps restore the full humanity of those we serve, reminding them that joy and fulfillment are still within their reach.
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