Thurman Brisben CENTER

Who Was Thurman Brisben

Most of you know by now that the Thurman Brisben Homeless Shelter began as a church-operated shelter for the homeless in Fredericksburg, and you've probably wondered from time to time how it got its unusual name. There is no better time than now to remember Thurman Brisben, and to thank God for this wonderful saint who dedicated her life to the outcasts of our society.

St. George's Episcopal Church was one of 6 to 8 downtown churches that banded together in 1987 to start a local homeless shelter. The representatives of those churches were the founding mothers and fathers of our shelter, and Thurman Brisben was St. George's angel of mercy. During those first few years, the shelter only operated during the winter months, and only at night; the doors were closed during the day because the volunteers had to go to work. There was one place where the homeless could always go, and one person they could always turn to - Thurman Brisben.

During the day, she kept an office at St. George's, and this one woman made more difference in the lives of the homeless than al the rest of us put together. She was always there for them - to listen, to counsel, to get them medical attention, to guide them through the steps to apply for social services, and to help them get jobs and get back on their feet.

Thurman "adopted" me when I became our church's representative and attended my first board meeting. She coaxed me alone until I finally signed up for our first week of volunteering, and she was there that first night to lend moral support. Many of you may remember her down at Maury School - the tiny lady with white hair who looked like the wind could blow her over, but when she put her hands on her hips and stared down (actually u at) the men, they would meekly do anything she said!

Several years ago, Thurman lost her battle with cancer, and the church shelter board promptly renamed the shelter she loved in her memory. Every time I see the name in print, or speak it aloud, I say a silent prayer of thanks to God for giving us this saint, and for the privilege of knowing her. Thurman, we're still at it, and by the grace of God, we will continue what you started until He takes each of us home, or until the time comes when there is no longer any homelessness, hunger, and poverty in this world.

In loving memory of Thurman Brisben

adapted letter to the editor by Debbie Dietrich

To contact us: POB 1295, Fredericksburg, VA 22402; 540-899-9853; shelter@brisbencenter.org