Annual Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day Service Honors Individuals, Ages 19 to 99, Who Died While Experiencing Homelessness

On Friday, December 19, at 11:30 a.m., the community will gather to honor the lives of an estimated 172 people who died while homeless. The list includes those from ages 19 to 99, including four U.S. veterans and 26 people who died from opioids. Every name will be read aloud. All the deaths underscore the dangers of life on the streets and the urgent need to connect people to services, support, and pathways to housing. The program will conclude with the symbolic release of four white doves, a reminder of hope and eternal peace.

“While they may not have had a permanent or traditional address, they will have the dignity of having their name read aloud and the honor of being remembered. Everyone deserves to die with dignity. This is our way of making sure that happens,” said Ron Book, chair of the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust. “We mourn, we remember, we reflect, and we resolve to stay diligent in our work to end homelessness in this community.”

The program, hosted by the Homeless/Formerly Homeless Forum, Inc., Miami Homes for All, and the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, is part of National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, which seeks to bring attention to the tragedy of homelessness. The ceremony takes place annually around the country on or around December 21, the longest night of the year.

EVENT: Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day Candlelight Vigil and Memorial Service
DAY/TIME: Friday, December 19, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW 1st Street, Miami, at west side fountain
PHOTO-OP: Dove release, laying of the wreath, and playing of “Taps.”

Editor’s Note: Press are invited to join the event. Please RSVP to Lisa Mozloom ([email protected]) or call 305-571-1455 for more details.