Think Progress » Homeless woman from Obama’s town hall given a place to live. (http://thinkprogress.org/2009/02/11/henrietta-hughes/)






Chene Thompson, the wife of State Rep. Nick Thompson (R), has offered her former residence to Hughes. “Basically, I offered Ms. Hughes and her son the opportunity to stay in my home rent free, for as long as they need to,” said Thompson. “I’m not a millionaire, I’m not rich, but this is what I can do for someone if they need it.”




Here is another great story

Woman buys foreclosed home for stranger | Latest News | WFAA.com (http://www.wfaa.com/sharedcontent/dws/wfaa/latestnews/stories/wfaa081026_mo_auctionangels.151177f7c.html)

Or this:


ABC News: Facebook Group Petitions on Behalf of Flight 3407 Buffalo Crash Family (http://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=6908369&page=1)




Individuals helping other individuals?



How about this?



ACORN disrupts foreclosures (http://newpittsburghcourieronline.com/articlelive/articles/43641/1/ACORN-disrupts-foreclosures/Page1.html)

Or demands to break the law?
















G&P

I think it is wonderful people helping people. I love it, we all should take a long look at ourselves and think of something we are able to do. Time and or money can be of great help. Many of us can only give time, but there are so many still that can help with donations or what not. There are a lot of us out there...

Think Progress » Homeless woman from Obama's town hall given a place to live. (http://thinkprogress.org/2009/02/11/henrietta-hughes/)

Wonder who is going to take care of the women who thinks she'll get her gas for free?
YouTube - Obama Is Going To Pay For My Gas And Mortgage!!! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P36x8rTb3jI)

ACORN disrupts foreclosuresHello in:

Wow, Dude! I thought ACORN was hated by the righty's.

excon

Tom, I don't think she expects the government is going to pay her bills. I think she is saying that with Obama as President she will be prosperous again and will not have to worry about where she is going to get the money to pay her bills.

I know what she means .Obama's promise of "spreading the wealth" spread something more than that.

Tom, I don't think she expects the government is going to pay her bills. I think she is saying that with Obama as President she will be prosperous again and will not have to worry about where she is going to get the money to pay her bills.

Why couldn't people do this with Bush in office? Cause they didn't like him? Or they needed... what? I just don't get it. Listen, it doesn't matter who is in the office, we have choices, she could have made that same choice last year. The lady that bought the house could have to... hmmmmm

Why couldn't people do this with Bush in office? Cause they didn't like him? Or they needed...what? I just don't get it. Listen, it doesn't matter who is in the office, we have choices, she could have made that same choice last year. The lady that bought the house could have to...hmmmmm

Because by the end People did not believe in Bush. They just saw him as the guy who lied to get into Iraq to get oil. I am not saying it is right but it is what it is. And it didn't start with Bush it started with Clinton Maybe before but I couldn't vote then so I didn't pay attention to what was going on.

You know when I think about it I am better off now then I was 8 years ago (keep in mind 8 years ago I was 23 and just finishing college) And you are right start it has nothing to do with the President it had to do with me working my @$$ off in school and then at work. I wanted to buy a house 2 years ago but I knew I couldn't afford it so I didn't even bother. I knew if I started to look at houses I would convince myself that I could afford it when really I couldn't.

And you are right start it has nothing to do with the President it had to do with me working my @$$ off in school and then at work. I wanted to buy a house 2 years ago but I knew I couldn't afford it so I didn't even bother. I knew if I started to look at houses I would convince myself that I could afford it when really I couldn't.
__________________



I'd start looking . There has to be comparatively some great bargains out there. I would rather see someone who has worked for it and played by the rules be the beneficiary of the housing bubble burt ,than having you as part of the renter's class ;having to open up your wallet to bail out someone who over-reached based on a social engineering scheme by the government .

Because by the end People did not believe in Bush. They just saw him as the guy who lied to get into Iraq to get oil. I am not saying it is right but it is what it is. And it didn't start with Bush it started with Clinton Maybe before but I couldn't vote then so I didn't pay attention to what was going on.

You know when I think about it I am better off now then I was 8 years ago (keep in mind 8 years ago I was 23 and just finishing college) And you are right start it has nothing to do with the President it had to do with me working my @$$ off in school and then at work. I wanted to buy a house 2 years ago but I knew I couldn't afford it so I didn't even bother. I knew if I started to look at houses I would convince myself that I could afford it when really I couldn't.

At least we got this said. We had the same choices then as we do now...
It is just up to us tomake the right choices as you did, not going to look cause if you did, you probably would have bought. Just like NOT filing out the credit card applications that come in the mail. I fully understand this. I just don't like the fact that the credit is put on Obama, he really has nothing to do with it. We should put the credit where it is due, and in a few instances it is just the plain ole people that helped and did the right thing when they could. Nobody else.

Tom we do have our eyes on a few houses right now. But my wife's company just laid off about 400 people she was one of the lucky ones who made the cut so to speak. She wants to wait a few more months just so she knows her job is stable then we are going to really start to look.

Hello in:

Wow, Dude! I thought ACORN was hated by the righty's.

excon

I wonder how many of those in ACORN that are aiding in breaking the law have actually taken in someone into their own home?

ACORN and the libs look to the government to help tham

Conservatives take individual action to help themselves and others








G&P

We had the same choices then as we do now....
Now we have a leader who inspires us with specific ideas to improve our country and doesn't just fling out an offhand "Go out and shop." Since the election in November, I'm continually amazed at positive and uplifting comments by -- and especially noticing random acts of kindness done by -- library patrons in my multi-ethnic community. Volunteer applications are at an all-time high, and very audible/visible are conversations between and courtesies extended to strangers. I give credit to the Obama phenomenon.

Well crap, I was doing nice things all along. Are you telling me it took Obama to be president to tell these people they could do good? I am not buying that crap. AND just now people are noticing that someone did something nice? I do not think so. It is a choice, and that just goes to show that before they were not making the right ones. I guess that sounds pretty negative, but as I see it, excuse after excuse is why someone couldn't make their own choices to help someone out.

Homeless families face strict new rules - The Boston Globe (http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/02/17/homeless_families_face_strict_new_rules/?page=1)

Massachusetts has a horrible plan for imposing unreasonable restrictions on their homeless population. Who can even get a 30 hour per week job, let alone save 30% of their income? And just where are these people who don't toe the line with the imposed regulations going to live after having been evicted from a shelter? At the governor's mansion for free? No. On the street.

So where's all the nicey nice people in Massachusetts? Oh, they must have moved elsewhere...

Very good question.
How accurately does Adam Shepard's experience reflect the American reality? - EagleTribune.com, North Andover, MA (http://www.eagletribune.com/punews/local_story_020094014)

I liked this the best!

Much of the current homeless population isn't as fortunate as Shepard, however. Finding the way to a better life can be a more difficult journey for those with any number of personal barriers - poor health, substance-abuse problems, even dependent family members, said Alison Goodwin, a spokeswoman for the state's Executive Office of Health and Human Services.

That doesn't mean doing so is impossible.

Homeless families face strict new rules - The Boston Globe (http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/02/17/homeless_families_face_strict_new_rules/?page=1)

Massachusetts has a horrible plan for imposing unreasonable restrictions on their homeless population. Who can even get a 30 hour per week job, let alone save 30% of their income? And just where are these people who don't toe the line with the imposed regulations going to live after having been evicted from a shelter? At the governor's mansion for free? No. On the street.

So where's all the nicey nice people in Massachusetts? Oh, they must have moved elsewhere ....

Well Governor Palin apparently doesn't use the Alaskian Governor's mansion for about 300 days a year, while the state pays for it's upkeep and also for the inconvienence of her travelling from home to work everyday (about 60 miles).

I wonder if some homeless people could live there?

No, but they could go to a church or a homeless shelter to try and get on their feet... would you let a homeless person that you have no idea about stay at your house while you were there or gone? I don't see your point.

No, but they could go to a church or a homeless shelter to try and get on their feet...would you let a homeless person that you have no idea about stay at your house while you were there or gone? I don't see your point.

It was a tongue in cheek jab at Government waste; even by the so called new Champion of the Republican party Sarah Palin.

Why wouldn't I let a homeless person use my home when I wasn't there, is a homeless person any less a person than say a neighbor who has lost their job? There are homeless people of every economic background, then there are some who are mentally challenged.

The mentally challenged ones wouldn't be safe in my home, and they belong in a shelter with some sort of supervision. However a single mother family who suddenly finds themselves homeless is worthy of opening our doors.

So go ahead, let someone you don't know use your home. What if that person is a recovering addict and just by chance on accident gets involved with drugs and is still staying at your house. Common sense would tell you not to do it. I wouldn't. BUT If I didn't have four kids and an extended sick family, I would be on my "free time" be trying in some other way to help out. I work at a restaurant and do what I can for the area I live in. Just yesterday, I gave out free food to the nicest lady ever, I could tell she just needed to sit in private somewhere and eat. Do what you can WHEN you can, it makes a difference!

Well crap, I was doing nice things all along. Are you telling me it took Obama to be president to tell these people they could do good? I am not buying that crap. AND just now people are noticing that someone did something nice? I do not think so. It is a choice, and that just goes to show that before they were not making the right ones. I guess that sounds pretty negative, but as I see it, excuse after excuse is why someone couldn't make their own choices to help someone out.
Well, you'd better shop somewhere else, because crap it's not! Maybe, probably they were doing nice things all along too, but now there's an enthusiasm and a joyousness that wasn't there before. And others who weren't doing nice things all along have caught that enthusiasm and are doing nice things and feeling the rush of pleasure that happens when one does a nice thing for someone else.

I recognize that rush of pleasure. I LOVE IT! I just get all doom and gloom when it takes a "star" to make people see that they can do it. When this could have been happening all along. We all know it and should be ashamed! We are not kids who need a parent giving encouragement anymore Wondergirl, we are adults and that should count for something.

Don't get me wrong, I will take all the do gooders in the world and wish them all the success in the world, I just really wish they would have come out long before this. Don't you?

No, but they could go to a church or a homeless shelter to try and get on their feet
Have you ever stayed overnight in a homeless shelter? You close your eyes and finally fall asleep and someone swipes your stuff.

My long-time homeless friend asserts his independence by avoiding shelters saying, "I am not a case and I don't want to be managed."

So you are saying you wouldn't go to a shelter and instead live your life on the streets instead? "I am not a case and I don't want to be managed." What does that mean?

EDIT: no I have not stayed in a shelter, thank my lucky stars I have never been put in that position.

I recognize that rush of pleasure. I LOVE IT! I just get all doom and gloom when it takes a "star" to make people see that they can do it. When this could have been happening all along. We all know it and should be ashamed! We are not kids who need a parent giving encouragement anymore Wondergirl, we are adults and that should count for something.

Don't get me wrong, I will take all the do gooders in the world and wish them all the success in the world, I just really wish they would have come out long before this. Don't you?
I guess not everyone in the world is as sharp as you and I are and need a model or an example (your parent figure) in their lives to point the way. How often I have heard since November, "I never even thought of doing something [to help society or someone else] that's so easy!"

I guess not everyone in the world is as sharp as you and I are and need a model or an example (your parent figure) in their lives to point the way. How often I have heard since November, "I never even thought of doing something [to help society or someone else] that's so easy!"

I am not saying I am sharp. But I agree with your statement about never even thinking about what they could have been doing all along. You got that right! And it sure is easy.

We are not kids who need a parent giving encouragement anymore Wondergirl, we are adults and that should count for something.

Don't get me wrong, I will take all the do gooders in the world and wish them all the success in the world, I just really wish they would have come out long before this. Don't you?

But what you are not recognizing Start is that a lot of people that are starting to volunteer and help out are college kids. As much as you don't need someone to inspire you to give someone free food it does take someone like Obama to inspire a 19 year old to step away from the beer pong table and do something worth while.

But what you are not recognizing Start is that a lot of people that are starting to volunteer and help out are college kids. As much as you don't need someone to inspire you to give someone free food it does take someone like Obama to inspire a 19 year old to step away from the beer pong table and do something worth while.

Ok, I can handle that. I get that.

So you are saying you wouldn't go to a shelter and instead live your life on the streets instead? "I am not a case and I don't want to be managed." What does that mean?
Nope. My long-time homeless friend had a few very bad experiences in shelters and never went to one again during his twelve years on the street.

The "case managing" thing is that, in a shelter, you give up your right to be yourself. You have to go with their program. If it's a church-sponsored shelter, you are obliged to sit through a sermon before they feed you or allow you to sleep. If you are out of work, you are obliged to follow their program for job hunting. (I volunteered for a few months at a family shelter as a job coach and quit because of the "dance" the residents had to perform.)

Well, I guess it is a choice, don't do drugs, go to church and do some extra curricular activities in order to stay here:) If you don't like it I suppose you don't have to stay. Do you really think the volunteer are there to make the homeless lives miserable? I don't, I hope not. Maybe they thought these rules and regulations would get them in to gear faster? I don't know really, just a thought!

I am not saying I am sharp. but I agree with your statement about never even thinking about what they could have been doing all along. You got that right! And it sure is easy.
Even something as simple as carrying a garbage bag and gloves as you are out and about, then picking up papers, cans, and other trash can inspire other people not only not to drop their refuse wherever they feel like it but also do the same thing as you are doing. And oh, how the melting snow is exposing the trash in Chicagoland!

(I was very disappointed that Obama didn't end his inauguration speech by saying, "Oh, and before you leave the Mall, please pick up all the trash and empty water bottles and pop cans and blankets and newpapers that are lying at your feet. We've put out many receptacles for your use. Please look for one or take the trash home (since you carried it in before it was trash) to dispose of properly.")

Well, I guess it is a choice, don't do drugs, go to church and do some extra curricular activities in order to stay here:) If you dont like it I suppose you don't have to stay. Do you really think the volunteer are there to make the homeless lives miserable? I don't, i hope not. Maybe they thought these rules and regulations would get them in to gear faster? I don't know really, just a thought!
My homeless friend doesn't drink or do drugs and, even though was raised Catholic, is no longer religious. He didn't like what he found at shelters, and he didn't stick around. So then he was dead meat as far as social services go.

I didn't say the volunteers made the homeless' lives miserable, but the homeless so have to dance to their tune and give up their autonomy, or they're out the door. There are too many homeless and not enough volunteers who know (have been trained to know?) what they are dealing with.

Just do your part and them some. That is my motto...
I agree about the melting snow, it shows all the yuck from the winter. I agree that it looked really bad when people left that night after they were done with the celebration. I do not think it was his duty to tell the people to pick up their own trash, I mean come on did all those people voting for him not know to do it without being told? Sorry, I had to put that in there... we just rely on others too much to tell us what the right thing to do is. AND it bothers me a lot.

Just do your part and them some. That is my motto....
I agree about the melting snow, it shows all the yuck from the winter. I agree that it looked really bad when people left that night after they were done with the celebration. I do not think it was his duty to tell the people to pick up their own trash, I mean come on did all those people voting for him not know to do it without being told? Sorry, I had to put that in there....we just rely on others to much to tell us what the right thing to do is. AND it bothers me a lot.
No, it wasn't his duty and yes, they "should have" been respectful enough to honor the day and pick up after themselves. But we all seem to need a parent figure in our lives now and then.

I live in an upper-middle-class suburb. Once a year there's a big parade in town. Why don't all those well-educated, well-off spectators pick up their trash? Main Street looks like a dump after everyone leaves.

My homeless friend doesn't drink or do drugs and, even though was raised Catholic, is no longer religious. He didn't like what he found at shelters, and he didn't stick around. So then he was dead meat as far as social services go.

I didn't say the volunteers made the homeless' lives miserable, but the homeless so have to dance to their tune and give up their autonomy, or they're out the door. There are too many homeless and not enough volunteers who know (have been trained to know?) what they are dealing with.

When we get a job, we have to dance to our bosses tune. When we go to school, we have to dance to our bosses tune. When we do anything we have to. To get ahead and not be homeless, I would do what I needed to. Especially if I were on my own, no drug addictions, no mental illnesses. I would do it then leave that part of my life in the dust as I enjoyed working and spending my free time as I wish. Now, my head is spinning, if I had money I would start a shelter of my own. Mark my words... for sure people like you who do good would be welcome to volunteer suggestions and help;)

No, it wasn't his duty and yes, they "should have" been respectful enough to honor the day and pick up after themselves. But we all seem to need a parent figure in our lives now and then.

I live in an upper-middle-class suburb. Once a year there's a big parade in town. Why don't all those well-educated, well-off spectators pick up their trash? Main Street looks like a dump after everyone leaves.

I agree all the way.. it is called being lazy and selfish.

To get ahead and not be homeless, I would do what I needed to.
If you ever become homeless and have hung out at a shelter, find a computer and PM me about your experience. (I can't wait!)

I am not saying it wouldn't be hard. Sheesh, my life not being homeless is hard! You can't wait? Well I really appreciate that Wondergirl!

Look, all I am saying is that I guess some of us are willing to do what is needed and some of us aren't. Some of us plainly just can't. A shelter vs. the street for another 15 years, the choice would be clear to me. Others maybe not. I know we can make a difference!

I am not saying it wouldn't be hard. Sheesh, my life not being homeless is hard! you can't wait? Well I really appreciate that Wondergirl!
At many shelters you would become part of the herd and just a number, a "case." You want to find a social worker or shelter volunteer who will value your individuality and autonomy and will allow you to become part of the solution.

Look, all I am saying is that I guess some of us are willing to do what is needed and some of us aren't. Some of us plainly just can't. A shelter vs. the street for another 15 years, the choice would be clear to me. Others maybe not. I know we can make a difference!
I learned from my homeless friend how rich and interesting life on the street can be. I even wrote stories around his adventures.

How accurately does Adam Shepard's experience reflect the American reality? - EagleTribune.com, North Andover, MA (http://www.eagletribune.com/punews/local_story_020094014)

You put me on the streets with 25 bucks... a sleeping bag, and a change of clothes. If I didn't have four kids, I may have been the one to volunteer to do it myself, I know good excuse huh?
Got Adams book and can't wait to read through and see what he went through and what he saw others go through. I will get back to you on that. I bet he saw what you are stating about the shelters, and I bet there were some people in his 10 months that made it through... because of self worth and determination. I wish there were a way to let everyone know they are worth it, that they are worth taking the time and energy it takes to succeed. I understand that not everyone feels that, it saddens me.

I learned from my homeless friend how rich and interesting life on the street can be. I even wrote stories around his adventures.

Interesting? I bet. I would love to read them.

How accurately does Adam Shepard's experience reflect the American reality? - EagleTribune.com, North Andover, MA (http://www.eagletribune.com/punews/local_story_020094014)

You put me on the streets with 25 bucks...a sleeping bag, and a change of clothes. If I didn't have four kids, I may have been the one to volunteer to do it myself, I know good excuse huh?
Got Adams book and can't wait to read through and see what he went through and what he saw others go through. I will get back to you on that. I bet he saw what you are stating about the shelters, and I bet there were some people in his 10 months that made it through....because of self worth and determination. I wish there were a way to let everyone know they are worth it, that they are worth taking the time and energy it takes to succeed. I understand that not everyone feels that, it saddens me.

Still, to become more independent, people need certain skills.

"They have to be good at budgeting, solid in their sobriety," she said. "They need to stay on their meds if they have a diagnosed emotional disability."

And how many homeless have those skills? If they did, they very possibly wouldn't be homeless. The sobriety issue is huge. Even the mentally-ill (NOT homeless) surrounded by family and friends don't stay on their meds.

Still, to become more independent, people need certain skills.

"They have to be good at budgeting, solid in their sobriety," she said. "They need to stay on their meds if they have a diagnosed emotional disability."

And how many homeless have those skills? If they did, they very possibly wouldn't be homeless. The sobriety issue is huge. Even the mentally-ill (NOT homeless) surrounded by family and friends don't stay on their meds.

Very very true. I wish I were more educated in how to deal and help with these situations. They do need skills. Now, the question is where can you learn these if you need to? Would it be one of those shelters that "don't let you be yourself" or a separate place all together?

Very very true. I wish I were more educated in how to deal and help with these situations. They do need skills. Now, the question is where can you learn these if you need to? Would it be one of those shelters that "don't let you be yourself" or a separate place all together?
Well, I interned at Catholic Charities that had a transitional program for homeless families. An area church would help finance an apartment and furniture, and the family would have to allow members of the church to help the family manage its personal finances. The families resisted the budgeting help and strangers' poking their noses into their checkbooks, but had to give in in order to put a roof over their kids' heads.

So what could have been a better way to handle that?

Whoa Wondergirl, don't you see that those people only wanted help if it didn't make them uncomfortable. Am I the only one here that sees that? The government takes our money, should we not make sure they are doing the right thing with it? People get food stamps, should we let them buy beer and wine with it? I needed to borrow my dads chainsaw, he said... make sure the tank is full and the chain is sharpened when you bring it back. The charity is for those who are going to put it to good use... and not abuse it. Doesn't anyone see what I am seeing or am I just stupid?
I put you up in a house and get you back on your feet... the least you could do is follow some simple rules.

EDIT:::: a better way to handle it would be to follow the rules or you don't get help. It wouldn't have hurt them one bit till they got on their feet.

EDIT:::: a better way to handle it would be to follow the rules or you dont get help. It wouldn't have hurt them one bit till they got on their feet.
So you would have said that to them, point blank.

How about those thatbeckme homeless due to job loss or illness or medical bills?

We don't need the president or the government to "inspire" us to do good things.

I know my church has been helping in the community, I know the salvation army and Catholic Charities have been helping in my town. We all should be doing more on our own. How much can the gov help? Look at Katrina.

In western ky, it was neighbors and families helping each other out during this past months ice storms - yes the state and the gov will help also - but it is individuals helping out.

In this crisis do we sit passively awaiting for Obama or the politicians to do something or do we people of this country help each other

I am more inspired by the folks in the links I posted





G&P

Heck yes... I would say, "I am willing to get you back on your feet as long as you prove to me that you can do it. In this time I will want to see that you know how to spend the money you are receiving and I would like to make sure you are not abusing the system. I will do this for someone else that will not take advantage of me. Can you do that or would you rather keep living on the streets? It is up to you"
What is so wrong with a few rules that WILL HELP YOU?

We don't need the president or the government to "inspire" us to do good things.
So what are "we" doing to help those with illness and job loss? Are we organized? Are we helping most of them?

Heck yes....I would say, "I am willing to get you back on your feet as long as you prove to me that you can do it. In this time I will want to see that you know how to spend the money you are receiving and I would like to make sure you are not abusing the system. I will do this for someone else that will not take advantage of me. Can you do that or would you rather keep living on the streets? It is up to you"
What is so wrong with a few rules that WILL HELP YOU?
That line won't work with most of them. It sounds punative and arrogant.

It sounds arrogant to the people wanting the help because? That is not the only thing I would say... I am a very compassionate person Wondergirl, I would encourage them to take the offer and encourage them to understand that I believe in them, and I that I think they are worthy and able of doing it. I wouldn't say here take my money and run with it. And that is what I think many want me to do. THAT IS WRONG. It is time to hold ourselves responsible.

It sounds arrogant to the people wanting the help because?? That is not the only thing I would say...I am a very compassionate person Wondergirl, I would encourage them to take the offer and encourage them to understand that i believe in them, and I that I think they are worthy and able of doing it. I wouldn't say here take my money and run with it. And that is what i think many want me to do. THAT IS WRONG. It is time to hold ourselves responsible.
Um, sounds like a parent talking to a naughty or disorganized child. Is that the kind of relationship this is? Is that how you want to proceed? (They don't give a hoot about your compassion.)

How about those thatbeckme homeless due to job loss or illness or medical bills?

We don't need the president or the government to "inspire" us to do good things.

I know my church has been helping in the community, I know the salvation army and Catholic Charities have been helping in my town. We all should be doing more on our own. How much can the gov help? Look at Katrina.

In western ky, it was neighbors and families helping each other out during this past months ice storms - yes the state and the gov will help also - but it is individuals helping out.

In this crisis do we sit passively awaiting for Obama or the politicians to do something or do we people of this country help each other

I am more inspired by the folks in the links I posted





G&P
I agree. AND again, I wish I were more qualified to help these individuals.

I agree. AND again, I wish I were more qualified to help these individuals.
So who's going to help them, if not you and the other unqualified people?

Um, sounds like a parent talking to a naughty or disorganized child. Is that the kind of relationship this is? Is that how you want to proceed? (They don't give a hoot about your compassion.)

But they give a hoot about my loot;) Funny how that works

But they give a hoot about my loot;) Funny how that works
No, actually they don't. Most of them just want a fair shake and some respect.

Notice how you are throwing out the baby with the bath water?

So who's going to help them, if not you and the other unqualified people?

Not sure, I am stumped. I am pretty sure we have some crappy funding and crappy help for these people. What should I do?

Not sure, I am stumped. I am pretty sure we have some crappy funding and crappy help for these people. What should I do?
Ah, now you're starting to ask the right questions!

No, actually they don't. Most of them just want a fair shake and some respect.

Notice how you are throwing out the baby with the bath water?

NO, I do not notice.
Fair shake? Take and take... but don't hold me responsible is not a fair shake.

Homelessness in America: Statistics and Prevention Programs (http://www.solutionsforamerica.org/thrivingneigh/homelessness.html)
This is the first one that I clicked on.

Do you all agree that there have to be stipulations or should we just do what we can and let everyone off the hook?

Years ago a friend of mine from Africa was in Australia (of all places) and went into a church to escape a horrendous raging storm. He was homeless at the time. He was told that he could not stay in the church and was put back outside in the raging storm. He didn't ask for food or clothing, but just to be treated as a human being and he was denied even that.

In a lot of cities the "good" people have forbidden the feeding of homeless people. They have even shut down the churches from taking in people to stay out of the freezing cold citing fire regulations.

Has any of you actually been homeless? Probably not.

The writer who had $25, sleeping bag, etc. had a hell of a lot more than a typical homeless person. Now had he ventured out with literally nothing in his pocket and maybe one raggedy blanket and no change of clothes I just might be interested in reading about how he survived his "ordeal". He knew he had a real life waiting for him at the end of his assignment. What do the other countless homeless people have to look forward to? Not much.

Here is an entire site devoted to homelessness

http://homelessness.change.org/

They don't have the answers either.

The writer who had $25, sleeping bag, etc. had a hell of a lot more than a typical homeless person.
No self-respecting homeless person would want a sleeping bag. What would he do with the heavy, sodden mess it would become after the first rainstorm he was in?

My homeless friend was given many sleeping bags over the twelve years he was on the street. He donated them all to shelters.

So I am reading through and it seems to me we have a big fight to battle out.
As we all know we need to help the people, that mean you and I and monetary help from the government because we all can't afford to use our own money to do it. There are many reasons people become homeless, and a few of these reasons are single moms, violence in the home, some mental illness can be avoided before it ends in homelessness. Maybe we should help that person we know get back on track before the worse happens? Yes? Still there are programs that are great but there are too few of them.

No self-respecting homeless person would want a sleeping bag. What would he do with the heavy, sodden mess it would become after the first rainstorm he was in?

My homeless friend was given many sleeping bags over the twelve years he was on the street. He donated them all to shelters.

What did he want then?

So I am reading through and it seems to me we have a big fight to battle out.
As we all know we need to help the people, that mean you and I and monetary help from the government because we all can't afford to use our own money to do it. There are many reasons why people become homeless, and a few of these reasons are single moms, violence in the home, some mental illness can be avoided before it ends in homelessness. Maybe we should help that person we know get back on track before the worse happens? Yes? Still there are programs that are great but there are too few of them.
Yes, how can we be proactive and avoid/deal with the homeless possibility before it becomes a problem?

What did he want then?
Huh?

Years ago a friend of mine from Africa was in Australia (of all places) and went into a church to escape a horrendous raging storm. He was homeless at the time. He was told that he could not stay in the church and was put back outside in the raging storm. He didn't ask for food or clothing, but just to be treated as a human being and he was denied even that.

In a lot of cities the "good" people have forbidden the feeding of homeless people. They have even shut down the churches from taking in people to stay out of the freezing cold citing fire regulations.

Has any of you actually been homeless? Probably not.

The writer who had $25, sleeping bag, etc. had a hell of a lot more than a typical homeless person. Now had he ventured out with literally nothing in his pocket and maybe one raggedy blanket and no change of clothes I just might be interested in reading about how he survived his "ordeal". He knew he had a real life waiting for him at the end of his assignment. What do the other countless homeless people have to look forward to? Not much.

Here is an entire site devoted to homelessness

End Homelessness - Change.org (http://homelessness.change.org/)

They don't have the answers either.

I do agree he had something to look forward to. AND I think that is where we get it wrong, knowing you can make your life better with 25 bucks and a change of clothes... isn't that something worth looking forward to?

Yes, we know there are laws saying we can only have a number of people in a building. Now where would your stance be if he was in there with TOO many people and the building caught fire and some died because the building were too full with people to get everyone out on time? You would be pissed that they didn't comply with the law. We have to have stipulations and laws.
We just have to. Everyone would be in an uproar.

Huh?

Instead of the sleeping bag, what did he want? Why did he even take it if he didn't want it?

instead of the sleeping bag, what did he want? Why did he even take it if he didn't want it?
If you're homeless and stay in the same community all the time so that you get to recognize people and they know you, you don't refuse any handout. Sometimes he was given packages of dried beans or Easter baskets with little stuffed animals inside or huge cans of vegetables from the restaurant supply store. He always smiled and said thank you.

(So what's he going to do with dried beans or stuffed animals, and where will he store the leftover vegetables after he opens one of the huge cans? What's he going to do with a heavy wet sleeping bag? It never ceased to amaze me how thoughtless people can be in their thoughtfulness. At least he gave his "overflow largesse" to me to take to shelters and food pantries.)

instead of the sleeping bag, what did he want? Why did he even take it if he didn't want it?
What annoyed me was when people gave him boxes of Fannie Mae or even Godiva chocolates, and, when he removed the cellophane, saw that the chocolate was all whitened and wrinkled, meaning it had been sitting around for quite a while or had been dug out of the freezer during a cleaning. What really annoyed me was his getting already-opened boxes of chocolates and some of the pieces had bites out of them or were smooshed. That sometimes happened with regular food too, that he got someone's leftovers (half rotten fruit, stale bread and cookies, dirty unmended clothes) that couldn't be thrown out for some reason (or were just an insult to the homeless guy).

I hear you on that one... thoughtless thoughtful people. I know exactly what you are saying! Most of my old clothes and unwanted food goes to shelters, I hope it is worthy of someone using it. I can't go out and buy NEW items for another family or individuals. My kids grow out of stuff and I give away at least every two months. Whatever I notice that I do not need or even want anymore. Half eaten chocolate is pretty lame, I have to agree. We need to find something that works.

If you're homeless and stay in the same community all the time so that you get to recognize people and they know you, you don't refuse any handout. Sometimes he was given packages of dried beans or Easter baskets with little stuffed animals inside or huge cans of vegetables from the restaurant supply store. He always smiled and said thank you.

(So what's he gonna do with dried beans or stuffed animals, and where will he store the leftover vegetables after he opens one of the huge cans? What's he gonna do with a heavy wet sleeping bag? It never ceased to amaze me how thoughtless people can be in their thoughtfulness. At least he gave his "overflow largesse" to me to take to shelters and food pantries.)

SO, what DID he want? Anything or to be left alone?

You know, the more I think about the huge detention facilities that are around this country that are currently empty, the more and more I think that the government is just going to one day round up all the homeless people and put them in these camps. It reminds me of the 1930's and the labor camps that abounded in this country.

And the churches that were supposedly closed due to "fire regulations" were not open to ANYONE, let alone a few people. They were ordered NOT to allow anyone in to get warm. This was in NYC. More and more cities are turning "mean" to their homeless people in an effort to make them go elsewhere.

I am amused by Wonder's homeless friend. Very untypical is all that I can say about him. No, he didn't have any kids to contend with but just him. He just accepted his lot if he did this for years and years. I'm sorry, but I don't see what one single man homeless has anything to do with the families that are homeless. It's like apples and oranges.

The homeless situation is growing worse every day in California. What are they going to do with all these people?

I hear you on that one....thoughtless thoughtful people. I know exactly what you are saying! Most of my old clothes and unwanted food goes to shelters, I hope it is worthy of someone using it. I can't go out and buy NEW items for another family or individuals. My kids grow out of stuff and I give away at least every two months. Whatever I notice that i do not need or even want anymore. Half eaten chocolate is pretty lame, I have to agree. We need to find something that works.
Old clothes are fine -- but not dirty, unmended ones. Unwanted food is fine -- but not out-of-date food or fruit and vegetables that are full of spots or half-rotted or all shriveled up. My homeless guy was always very happy when someone asked him his size first and brought him old clothes that actually fit him. He was always happy when someone gave him two or three apples and not a five-pound bag that he would have had to lug around and watched rot before he could eat them all. Early one cold morning, a cashier at the local food store near where he hung out at night (well-lighted parking lot, police patroled), woke him up to give him hot soup from a fast food place. He told me it was like getting breakfast in bed!

As nice as it has been talking to you guys about all this, I must leave on this note for the weekend. My eyes and ears are opened as big as they can be, and I thank all of you for that! Twinkie, I checked out your link and yes, many are suffering. I can't wait till I have the time maybe even the money to help people out more than I do now. The little things will have to do for now. As you said, I am hoping they don't put all these people in the same place and jail them so they can never return to normal life, we need something bigger and way better than that!
Wondergirl, although we don't agree on so many things, I love your insight and always take what you have to say to heart and mind. I am obviously more conservative than you are. Have a good weekend.

I'm sorry, but I don't see what one single man homeless has anything to do with the families that are homeless.
Apparently this country is clueless about homelessness, whether it's a man in his 60s or a young family. That's what they have to do with each other -- cluelessness.

SO, what DID he want? Anything or to be left alone?
He didn't "want" anything. He was given much. And he has given me much.

He sounds like a good man Wondergirl. When I think about it though, couldn't he do much more from a home, knowing what he knows about the whole situation first hand?

He sounds like a good man Wondergirl. When I think about it though, couldn't he do much more from a home, knowing what he knows about the whole situation first hand?
A home?

He educated me and I educated my coworkers at the library and am writing about him and what he taught me, so that educates others who may be able to change attitudes and behaviors of givers as well as recipients of charity.

From one of my stories about him:

One night when we were leaving the library, it was pouring rain. Coworkers huddled together under the few remembered umbrellas and planned their dash into the parking lot. From out of the corner near the outdoor ashtray, a large body covered with an enormous dark green poncho made of garbage bags and duct tape moved toward me. Nort opened up an ultra-wide pink golf umbrella that someone had given him. In a soft-gruff voice he asked if he could escort me to my car. I grinned at him from ear to ear. He grinned back at me. A friendship was born.

I like it.
One day, I was heading to the post office just in time for all 12 of my packages to arrive to their recipients on time for Christmas. I got a front parking spot, got out of my car and wondered, how in the heck are you going to get these in there at the same time. I had to make two trips or carry all on top of each other and hope to God there was a nice person to open the door for me. I noticed this man singing, and yes it was obvious he was homeless. He saw me, I saw him, he sang all the way to the door only to stop when he said, (as he opened the door) Ma'am, and held his hand in the gesture to scoot me in the building. A friendship was not born, but I did say thank you and how he made my day much easier. As I left the post office, I handed him a five (cash I had in my pocket) I hope I made his day a little easier too;)

The only reason I brought up the fact that it may be easier for him to help others from a home is that he could give hope to many that there is something to look forward to. If he likes the way he lives, then so be it, but there is no sense in promoting homelessness and how wonderful it can be. At least not to me, and maybe that IS because I have never been homeless.

The only reason I brought up the fact that it may be easier for him to help others from a home is that he could give hope to many that there is something to look forward to.
You mean a homeless shelter?

He's been in and out of the hospital over the past several years and would go to an area rehab center/nursing home for six weeks or so each time for continuing/followup treatment. I encouraged him to apply for SS (he was gainfully employed for most of his life), but he had no bank account because he had no roof over his head (banks want a residence address), and he didn't want so much money stuffed in his pockets every month. I talked myself blue in the face regarding getting an apartment or a rented room or even live at the HUD retirement home across from the library. Finally, a social worker at the rehab place joined in on the effort and finally convinced him to apply for SS and drove him to their office. She also encouraged him to make the rehab place his home. That's where he is now. Keep her in your prayers, as she is his angel.

Wondergirl

Does your whole experience with the homelessness just involve this one person you have described?

20 or years ago when I was a student in Philly, there were homeless by the local WAWA [ I don't know if they were are still around] and 'd go in get myself a snack and if there were homeless I'd get them a snack or a hotdog also.

One time I gave this guy a hot dog and he asked why I couldn't get him a hoagie or a sub instead. Mind you, I'm a student, living on loans and money saved from summer jobs.
After that, I stopped giving.

That is what your story of this one homeless person sounds like, a sleeping bag is useless, shelters are useless, 5 pound bags of apples are useless.

If that is the case, why should anyone care about this person?

Charity does to have to house someone:
Volunteer or contribute to your local Salvation Army or in my area God's Pantry, get some kids gifts for Christmas [ walmart and the YMCA do this every year ], donate clothes that you have outgrown or don't fit to Goodwill.

Ask what that homeless person may need.

One time a guy stood close to our local Best Buy, my wife asked what he needed. He needed toiletries and diapers for his little children. We went down the street to K Mart, bought it, came back and gave it to him. My wife loves to talk and she talked to him awhile and even gave him a hug.
You know, it might not be life changing, but for that one moment, we can help out.

"Whatever you do for the least of these...you do for me"





G&P

Quote from Inthebox:

Wondergirl

Does your whole experience with the homelessness just involve this one person you have described?


I quite agree. The whole homeless situation does not revolve around one man who refuses to go to a shelter and has to be "coaxed" into a rehab facility.

So, if you are so wonderful WG, why didn't you invite him to live in your home? Hmmmmm.

So, if you are so wonderful WG, why didn't you invite him to live in your home? Hmmmmm.
I live in an 800 sq ft two-bedroom house with two other adults and four cats. If I had the space, I would have, and I told him so many times. I did my best to pull the community around him, and also help him be responsible to the community.

And yes, I've known and worked with a number of other homeless people, both men and women. Those who "have" deal with them in many thoughtlessly thoughtful ways, giving the homeless what they think the homeless need.

One time I gave this guy a hot dog and he asked why I couldn't get him a hoagie or a sub instead.
Did you ever think that people give homeless prepared food and have slipped something inside that could cause intestinal problems, or maybe certain foods cause allergic or digestive reactions? My homeless guy was VERY careful from whom he took fast food or sandwiches/soup. He also had to say no to chili or anything spicy. He learned quickly early on. In case of an attack of vomiting or diarrhea, the homeless don't have a bathroom close by nor do they have a shower and fresh clothing available.

That is what your story of this one homeless person sounds like, a sleeping bag is useless, shelters are useless, 5 pound bags of apples are useless.
You have become homeless and get around with a bicycle and two saddlebags. What would you do with a soaking wet sleeping bag? Would you go to a shelter knowing your bags of stuff (personal papers, changes of clothing) would disappear while you're asleep? Where will you store the uneaten apples?

contribute to your local... [food] pantry
And be sure to contribute small cans of fruit and vegetables. If it is just one homeless person, not a family, it's much easier for him or her to open one small can and eat it in one fell swoop without leftovers.

get some kids gifts for Christmas
Just Christmas? What about Easter? Birthdays?

donate clothes that you have outgrown or don't fit to Goodwill
Please make sure they are in good repair and clean. You wouldn't believe the condition of some of the stuff that is donated.

Ask what that homeless person may need.
Thank you for mentioning that again.

You have become homeless and get around with a bicycle and two saddlebags. What would you do with a soaking wet sleeping bag? Would you go to a shelter knowing your bags of stuff (personal papers, changes of clothing) would disappear while you're asleep? Where will you store the uneaten apples?

Does his stuff not get stolen on the streets?


Just Christmas? What about Easter? Birthdays?

I don't think he meant just on these occasion. I donate all year round.


Did you ever think that people give homeless prepared food and have slipped something inside

YES, and that is a big worry, I can give so much left overs it isn't funny, but some people won't take them...

AND, asking what they may need is a great idea, cept if I have something in my car that I think someone may need, (hat, gloves, blankies, or just some food) I hope they would take it and pass it on if they didn't want it. Some homeless people say they don't want it and go on to ask me for money, I say this is all I have and then they are upset.

You mean a homeless shelter?

NO, a home... that is well worth looking forward to. He seems awfully smart and others on the street probably look up to him. It would be way better for him to be able to say, "I have been where you are, here are the steps to get where I am now."

Does his stuff not get stolen on the streets?
Nope! He was usually awake most of the night. Kept a baseball bat at his side. (The shelter would have taken it away from him if he wanted to stay there.) He was allowed to nap in several places during the day.

Some homeless people say they don't want it and go on to ask me for money, I say this is all I have and then they are upset.
Homeless can buy food they pick out themselves if someone gives money. They can use only so much in clothes and blankets.

What did you decide about the wet sleeping bag, et al.

I understand all of the points you are giving.
The sleeping bag thing? Well, I can't decide anything, if they don't want it then that is fine. I just don't have the money to give for a motel or hotel room, so that is the closest thing I can give. Something warm for maybe a night... thats all.

I understand all of the points you are giving.
The sleeping bag thing? Well, I can't decide anything, if they don't want it then that is fine. I just don't have the money to give for a motel or hotel room, so that is the closest thing I can give. Something warm for maybe a night...thats all.
The police in the suburb where my homeless man hung out did not allow sleeping in public on level surfaces -- park benches or even on the ground. Lugging around a dry sleeping bag is tough enough and after one night's use wrapped around him while sitting on a bench he then stuffs it into a Dumpster? He wasn't wasteful, and would have given it to me (unused) for a shelter's use. Btw, people gave him used sleeping bags, even dirty ones. And he knew how to be warm without sleeping bags.

Something we have to do to maintain proper circulation is lie flat at least so many hours a day. He never did that unless someone gave him a night in a motel room.

I do get that he did not need the sleeping bag. I just think if he can get an address like you say and collect his SS... and feel a bit more safe living in a home, well, I just think it would be better. I suppose that is my point. I wish your friend well.

I do get that he did not need the sleeping bag. I just think if he can get an address like you say and collect his SS....and feel a bit more safe living in a home, well, I just think it would be better. I suppose that is my point. I wish your friend well.
That's exactly what happened - he finally was able to begin collecting SS and has a roof over his head now (and a shower a day and regular meals and a warm bed).