Dear Editor,
Unfortunately, the headline chosen for my recent letter was misleading in that it implied that I believe the only way to help the homeless is to not call the police, it seems that Ms. Vega, in her letter, picked up on this and assumed she knew what I thought about homelessness.
In this case, as in so many when the police are called regarding homeless people, the reasons are not to help the homeless or the “environment,” but rather to do something about a frustrating situation. I suggested that instead of placing a negative impact on an already desperate situation, the people who are concerned could form a group that would be of real help to homeless folks.
Most of my 58 years have been devoted to homeless concerns in one way or the other. I’ve worked at food banks and homeless shelters and counseled people with addictions. Anyone who says that people on our streets are there by choice is blind or naive. There is not enough housing for every homeless person, should they be able to afford it. If you don’t believe me, please call your county supervisor and ask if there is vacant very-low-income housing available in Humboldt County for 2,000 people. While you’re at it, ask if there are enough jobs for them; how many shelter beds are there; and where these people go when they get chased away from your neighborhood.
If it’s garbage that concerns you, then set out trash containers. If you care about people, we need to change our approach to homelessness because present policies aren’t working.
Kathy Anderson
Eureka
3 comments
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"Anyone who says that people on our streets are there by choice is blind or naive."
I am not sure who Ms. Anderson has spoke to, but there are some who choose this way of life. So, it cannot be said "It is not bby choice."
"There is not enough housing for every homeless person, should they be able to afford it. If you don’t believe me, please call your county supervisor and ask if there is vacant very-low-income housing available in Humboldt County for 2,000 people."
This has been recognized by the County Supervisors, as well as other organizations. Part of the biggest issue here, is the fact that the organizations work seperately. If they combined their efforts, as suggested as a group,they may address the issue with greater accomplishment. But to do this, they would need to get the homeless, as well as others involved in making decisions, yes? Takes away their little authority over current mode of operations.
I totally agree with what Ms. Anderson says. NOBODY is homeless by choice.
I was thinking about the position or thought, "No one wants to be homeless."
In many ways, this is a true statement, and I can take back what I stated earlier. But, I also wish to state, there are some that are homeless, still because it is their choice.
When one asks why? Answers vary, rent too high, utilities, I don't want to follow societies rules, I enjoy no responsibilities, etc.
I listened to an individual argue about a deduction from their SSI check for medical insurance and the individual was outraged this small amount was taken from their check. Even though he was homeless, and mind you stated he wished to travel about this way and remain homeless, medical coverage was not an issue for the inividual. If they were to get ill, this deduction from their check didn't allow or provide medical care - they would be cared for either way, yes?
This is why, I think more groups trying to address the homeless issue need to work together. Get to know more about some of the people and what their needs are.
It is true, again, many are homeless and it is not by their choice. But one must also look at the various situations the individual homeless are in and address the why.
Also, I have seen homeless in areas on some of my outings who don't know how to use a trash container even after it has been provided (Take a look under the Boardwalk for empties.). So, placing trash containers out for others to use is the right thing? or does it invite others to shrug their own responsibilities?