Gov. Reynolds Proclaims Dec. 21 as Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation declaring Dec. 21, 2020, as Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day.

Reynolds will read the proclamation at the Iowa Homeless Memorial on Dec. 21, 5:30 p.m., at the State Capitol. Organized by Joppa, the event will offer poetry, music and prayer in remembrance of those who died homeless in Iowa during the past year.

Find more information about the Iowa Homeless Memorial.

Read the full proclamation:

WHEREAS, the winter poses extreme hardship for unsheltered and inadequately housed low-income men, women and children in the State of Iowa; and

WHEREAS, the spirit of the holiday season of giving provides an opportunity for affirmation and renewal regarding our commitment to end homelessness; and

WHEREAS, December 21st has been designated National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day by the National Coalition for The Homeless and the National Health Care for The Homeless Council and is so recognized by cities nationwide; and

WHEREAS, Joppa helps homeless people survive, find housing and rebuild their lives and organizes the Iowa Homeless Memorial each year to honor and remember those who have died homeless in Iowa and to prevent future homeless deaths by raising awareness about fundamental solutions to homelessness; and

WHEREAS, in this season of generosity and sharing, citizens of Iowa are encouraged to commit themselves to promoting compassion and concern for all brothers and sisters, especially those who are poor and homeless; and

WHEREAS, in remembering those who have died on the streets, the cause of ending homelessness is kept urgent as is the state’s collective commitment to preventing such deaths in the future:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kim Reynolds, Governor of the State of Iowa, do hereby proclaim December 21, 2020, as

HOMELESS PERSONS’ MEMORIAL DAY

in the State of Iowa and ask all citizens to take a moment of silence in remembering those who have died homeless and encourage our citizens to support all local efforts to eliminate homelessness in our communities.

Kim Reynolds, Governor of Iowa