On December 14, 2023, the 39th Annual Homeless Memorial March brought together hundreds of community members to remember 266 people who died in 2023 who were homeless, were previously homeless, or were advocates.
Click here to watch the memorial service.
All photos courtesy of Manitou Photos.
Community members carried each name on a silent march and commemorated each unique life.
Of the individuals remembered, the average death age of individuals who died while experiencing homelessness was 29 years old, the average death age of individuals that were formerly homeless was 50 years old, and the overall age of people experiencing homelessness was 38 years old.
This year, Luna the puppet returned to lead the march, thanks to some talented friends of Simpson. Gail W. and Nancy M. from Minnetonka United Methodist Church refurbished the puppet and created some fabulous new clothes for her, while Kathy A. provided transportation. BareBones Puppets brought Luna to life at the march.
Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan shared a few words at the vigil before the march began, as did Rhonda Otteson of the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless and Simpson’s Executive Director, Steve Horsfield.
The silent march and vigil began at Plymouth Congregational Church. Marchers walked through downtown Minneapolis and returned to the church for a moving, thoughtful memorial service.
Immediately after the service, a community meal was hosted and served by Plymouth Congregational Church and Minnetonka United Methodist Church in the fellowship hall. It was the first time the community meal had been served since the pandemic. Attendees enjoyed a lovely time of reconnecting with others over a full turkey dinner and delicious cake donated by Queen of Cakes.
