Rodney - Helping His "Brothers & Sisters" Find Dignity

Meet Rodney Castro...he is homeless.

This winter, he has found shelter at the Men’s Reach-Out shelter here in Federal Way, which, he says, has been an eye-opening experience.

Now, having lived both inside and outside of shelters, he has become extremely aware of those in our community who are struggling for the most basic of needs. These people include men, women and children — with the number rising each day.

Perhaps you know Rodney, or have watched him assist with set-up or clean-up at a FWCCN community meal.

Or, you may have noticed him on a Tuesday or Friday morning, helping our Emergency Services volunteers prepare to meet guests seeking assistance with rental, gas, transportation or other needs.

Rodney also helps the Church of The Good Shepherd folks with their Breakfast Outreach Program. You’ll also find him lending a hand at the Church’s Supper Outreach Services table, distributing hygiene products, blankets, clothing, etc. That’s Rodney, always willing to help out, wherever and whenever needed.

Recently, he spoke publicly at the February 17th City Council meeting. The subject of the proposed Day & Hygiene Center was on the agenda, and 175 people filled the chamber and outer rooms. He was also quoted in The Mirror’s follow-up story, saying “A Day Center will mean, to me and my brothers and sisters who are homeless, is we would have a place where we can have dignity. Where we can shower daily, have clean clothes, positive fellowship...This Day Center in itself will give us hope.”

Many homeless come to Rodney for advice, suggestions, help, or someone to talk to.

He realizes that not all people are willing to listen, but those who do find Rodney’s experience-filled advice helpful to them.

In our visits with Rodney, we learned that he enjoys writing poetry and found him to be quite gifted. We’re very pleased that he has agreed to allow us to share one of his poems.

Candle of Hope by Rodney Castro Through the tough times

That we all bear

Through the sadness

That leads to despair

Give us the candlelight of hope

Through the darkest

Path so very steep

The pitfalls and bumps

Slick with tears that we weep

Lead us, candlelight of hope

The cleansing of body and soul

The cleansing of young and old