Former Shelter Resident Now Leads a Salvation Army Street Outreach Program
For three hours, six days a week, Maxwell Assing and his team of volunteers go to the outskirts of Bermuda to deliver meals, drinks, and necessities to people experiencing homelessness.
Maxwell, who works as a residential support worker for The Salvation Army, was chosen to lead a street outreach program because he once was in the same position as the individuals he now helps.
“I know the clients out there. I know them by name,” Maxwell said.
“I came into The Salvation Army’s Harbour Light and it changed my life.”
Before working for The Salvation Army, Maxwell struggled with addiction and homelessness for decades. At the age of 43, he decided to change his life and joined the Army’s Harbour Light addiction recovery and life skills program to get sober.
“I came into The Salvation Army’s Harbour Light and it changed my life.”
After 18 months, he completed the program. Soon after, he took on his new role. He felt it was a perfect opportunity to give back to the organization that helped him. Maxwell got his driver’s licence, learned how to drive a truck, and within a couple of weeks he was helping people in need. He has been going out almost every day, rain or shine, for over six years.
The street outreach team usually consists of Maxwell plus three additional volunteers. They meet mid-afternoon to prepare soup and sandwiches. While in the community, they use the opportunity to interact and encourage people to come to The Salvation Army to get additional shelter or addiction assistance. At times, they’ve had success and changed people’s lives.
For Maxwell, seeing the Army’s work make a difference is what encourages him to keep going strong.
“I have seen men come through the door that I have served soup on the street.”
“I give them a word from the Lord and encourage them to come off the streets and try to change their life,” Maxwell shared. “I have seen men come through the door that I have served soup on the street. That is one of my greatest and most uplifting encouragements.”
Aside from food the team also provides toothbrushes, blankets and pillows, for anyone who needs them. According to Maxwell, this program also helps some of the homeless population to take less risks, as some of them turn to crime in order to survive. Providing them with a meal daily keeps their hunger at bay.
The street outreach program has the support of the community. Some restaurants donate food to the truck. However, due to the high demand of people they serve, additional donations are always welcome.
By Juan Romero
