QUINCY - The community is invited to step into someone else's shoes for 24 hours and take part in a street retreat on Saturday, April 26.

The street retreat, hosted by Brother Ed Arambasich, OFM, is an event where normal everyday people are "homeless" for a day. Participants will be "poor" for 24 hours, and will walk the downtown streets of Quincy, then out of town to Fall Creek for an overnight stay and finally to Hannibal, Mo., keeping eyes and ears open at all times. They will be urged to be aware of those around them, and their reactions to racism, fears, anxieties, compassion, love, sadness and joy.

Participants should dress in a simple, comfortable way, and if possible, bring the following items: backpack, umbrella, hooded sweatshirt, sleeping bag, water, candy bars and snacks, flashlight, first aid kit and toothbrush. I-pods are not allowed, and cell phones are to be used for emergency use only. Brother Ed will have his phone on at all times.

The Living Room is asking for help sponsoring the event. Businesses and individuals may sponsor a $1 a mile for the 20-mile trip, for a total of a $20 donation. Proceeds will benefit the Franciscan Living Room Outreach in Quincy and the needs of the poor. Checks may be sent to: Franciscan Firefighter Ministries, P.O. Box 1021, Quincy, IL 62306.

For more information on, contact Brother Ed at (217) 316-9272.