Part 1. Preparing to care for the homeless. Homeless in America ; Faltering first steps ; The promised land ; A history of shelters -- Part 2. Operating a homeless shelter. Starting a shelter ; Nuts and bolts of ministry ; Working with officials ; Developing financial support ; Fundraising insights ; Making time for the media -- Part 3. Meeting needs on a daily basis. When vision becomes reality ; Shelter policies ; The homeless speak ; A slice of life at Joy Junction ; Be encouraged!