Union County Homeless Person’s Vigil

Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 6pm at Fountain Baptist Church, 116 Glenside Ave., Summit, NJ

We gather as a community to honor and remember the names of those who experienced homelessness and lost their lives. Each name represents a unique story, a life filled with hopes, challenges, and dreams. By speaking their names aloud, we affirm their dignity and acknowledge that their lives mattered. This act of remembrance is not only a tribute to those we have lost but also a call to recognize the humanity in every individual, regardless of their circumstances. Coming together in this way helps us confront the realities faced by people experiencing homelessness. It reminds us that behind every statistic is a person with a history and a future that was cut short. Our collective memory becomes a source of strength, inspiring us to build a more compassionate and just society where everyone is seen, valued, and remembered.

Lighting candles in their memory is a powerful symbol of hope and solidarity. Each flame represents a commitment to keep their stories alive and to shine a light on the ongoing crisis of homelessness. As the candles glow, we reflect on the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness and the urgent need for solutions. This moment of
reflection encourages us to listen, learn, and support one another in the journey toward change.

Beyond remembrance, this gathering is a call to action. By raising awareness, we can mobilize our community to advocate for policies and programs that prevent homelessness and provide support for those in need. Together, we can work to ensure that no one dies forgotten or alone, and that every person has the opportunity to live
with dignity and security.

This event is sponsored by Community Access Unlimited, Elizabeth, the Union County Commissioners Office, and the Union County Interfaith Coordinating Council.