Former NFL player visits local 'homeless box retreat'

Youth at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Community recently got a first-hand look at homelessness.

During a special 'homeless box retreat" last month, youths set up boxes in which to sleep. They were allowed only to bring three items and a sleeping bag. Each piece of food, water and visit to the restroom cost them a nickel.

Motivational speaker and former NFL player Todd Williams also made a special appearance to share with the youth about his experience being homeless when he was 13 years old and to encourage them to make good choices.

"I now understand the pain, struggles and discomfort that the homeless go through every day, and I feel that we are really blessed," said Lucas Mingote, a seventh-grade student at Braden River Middle School.

The retreat ended with a 6 a.m., wake up call and an opportunity to worship at an 8 a.m., mass.