Golden Drive Homeless Kids: “We’re All Equal”

One in 30 people are homeless in the United States.

It’s a number that one local group is trying to change.

Just in the metro, there are 1,000 people experiencing homelessness.

It’s a problem in our area and across the country.

But, thanks to the group, Golden Drive Homeless Kids they are addressing the problem head on.

“It’s about empowerment, inspire, always believe in yourself and you can make a difference,” says Golden Drive Homeless Kids Founder, Sue Baron.

Sue Baron is the founder of Golden Drive Homeless Kids, a group that has one mission: end homelessness.

“We’re all equal. Our homeless people are mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, we know all our homeless. We know them. They are no different than you or me,” says Baron.
 
This is the fourth year for the annual Golden Drive Community Event and Bike Run.

But as the years go by, Baron never forgets how it all began, with just one crayon.
 
“I was going to drop off crayons at a homeless shelter. That’s when I decided I could do more. The vision was there. It’s the people, not a big bank account, not a building it’s the people that make the difference,” says Baron.
 
And just with that one crayon, not only has Baron raised money but also started a conversation.
 
“People think it’s this stigma of people who are just asking for money on the road, homelessness means people that are displaced for whatever reason,” says Golden Drive Homeless Kids Volunteer, Leah Ranstad.
 
Tracy Smith brings in baked goods each year for the event, because the thought of her own daughter not having a place to sleep is a reason enough.
 
“It just breaks my heart, it’s just very emotional for me and it just touches my heart in a way I can’t even explain,” says Sandy’s Donuts Employee, Tracy Smith.
 
“We’re all equal, everyone is equal. Whether we’re housed or not housed everyone is equal,” says Baron.
 
A message that Sue hopes will continue to spread with events like this, and even….
 
“Never think that something small doesn’t matter, it all matters,” says Baron.
 
…just staying golden.

If you would like to learn more about the Golden Drive Homeless Kids you can check out their Facebook page here.