PORT TOWNSEND — The Olympic Community Action Programs (OlyCAP) and the Port Townsend Police Department offer advice on how to start a conversation with someone who is homeless.
Do:
• Say good morning, good afternoon or good evening, instead of “How are you?”
• Remember that you may be entering into someone’s personal or private space.
• Make eye contact and talk to them as you would anyone else; be yourself.
• Be respectful.
• Be patient, calm and clear.
• Squat down to speak with someone who is sitting or lying down. This can make them feel less threatened.
• Accept “no” for an answer.
• Be aware of your body language and facial expressions.
Don’t:
• Sneak up on someone or corner them.
• Be judgmental.
• Insert yourself into someone’s personal story.
• Say “I’m sorry.” Instead say something like “I will keep you in my thoughts.”
