“We can’t return to normal.” These words were spoken by my friend and colleague, Angela D’Orazio, of the Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland. This may sound strange in this time of deep longing for things to feel familiar, but what Angela said and what I believe is that “normal” for those experiencing homelessness is awful and unacceptable. The coronavirus pandemic has taught me that things cannot simply return to normal, or we have missed the chance of our lifetimes to make things better.

When the coronavirus began its rapid spread about a year ago, public health agencies quickly recognized how dangerous it would be if the virus were to infect people in crowded encampments and homeless shelters, putting this highly vulnerable population — and the broader community — at great risk.

Save the Date! #WeGiveCatholic is December 1. Support Joseph’s Home during this one-day giving event that provides Catholic schools, parishes, Catholic Charities sites/programs, special ministries and nonprofits affiliated with the Diocese of Cleveland the opportunity to raise awareness and funds.

Lisa Zimmerman recently joined the Joseph’s Home Board of Directors. She is the director of global business operations at Quadax, Inc., a health care revenue cycle management company.

The coronavirus has exposed deep, persistent cracks in our society that were not as evident in the rush of our everyday lives just a few months ago. Or, perhaps, we used our busyness as an excuse to look past them or pretend they were not there.