Voiceless Choir shares stories through songs, poetry

Thu., Feb. 16, 2006

Staff writer

Name of program: The Voiceless Choir

What it does: The Voiceless Choir is made up of homeless and formerly homeless individuals and families participating in the Spokane Neighborhood Action Program’s Homeless Program, or have in the past, as well as volunteers. The group uses songs and poetry to share stories about the journey out of homelessness.

Who runs it? Spokane Neighborhood Action Programs in partnership with the Rev. Michael Rice-Sauer of Covenant Christian Church, also known as Redhawk, and volunteers.

How it works: The group meets at 6 p.m. every Monday in St. Ann’s Catholic Church Parish Hall at 2120 E. First Ave. A hot dinner is provided by Gonzaga University’s Campus Kitchens. Everyone needing a meal is invited, but please RSVP by calling the SNAP office at 456-7111.

Music and creative hour is from 6:30 to7:30 p.m. “We really don’t want to discourage people who think that they aren’t musically inclined. We have the kids doing art work, and we encourage the adults and kids to write poetry, to write lyrics to songs and to share their stories so that Redhawk can create a song about their experience. It’s a collaborative effort,” said Jennifer Martin, east office coordinator at SNAP.

The group performs about once a month. They are working on their second CD. Avista will help underwrite the expense of producing the CD.

Who it helps: “We’re all in this together. Homeless comes in all shapes and sizes and affects the entire community,” said Martin.

How to get help: Homeless families and individuals are invited to come to the free dinner offered at St. Ann’s Parish Hall on Mondays. All are welcome to participate in the creative/music hour. Those interested can call SNAP at 456-7111, or Covenant Christian Church at 448-1311.

How you can help: Volunteers are always welcome to participate. Even if you don’t have musical experience, there’s an opportunity to work with children and families trying to change their lives, said Martin.

Another way to help is by purchasing the group’s CD, “The Voiceless Among Us,” available by calling the SNAP office at 456-7111. Cost of the CD is $10, with proceeds benefiting SNAP programs for the homeless.

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