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The fight for freedom of street sleep
Let us be realistic here, if an economic downturn, family crisis or emergency situation has rendered you and your family homeless; you would have never posted this. It is unfortunate that the biggest opponents for services to aid homeless families are bread from ignorance. It is hard to imagine that there are people so conceited and self involved as to publicly speak out against assisting those in need. Alas, in fact, they do exist and their numbers are growing. If you really think about it, people that think and act in such a manner may be responsible for the creation of the situations that cause homelessness. One proven way to help the people get past their prejudices is education. Increasing the awareness of the problem is a surefire way but not the only one. First-hand experience having to endure the trials and tribulations of being homeless may be the best route. Most people can not even imagine what it would be like prior to having experienced it. The problems we have today can be traced back to the failings of our society. We care more for fashion, Starbucks and current trends than the family down the street living in their vehicle. Keeping up with the Kardashian's is far more important than a starving child isn't it? Unfortunately, out of sight out of mind has become the norm. Day after day I see the after effects of rampant ignorance. A problem not being isolated to just any one region. In the whole of the United States of America our compassion and empathy have shriveled into a dried out husk. We are content with providing aid to other countries to feel as though we are making a difference. Patting ourselves on the back for our good deed. Meanwhile we have our own hungry children that go without. Clearly, we are not doing enough. The homeless population continues to grow but for most of them, it is not their fault. A job loss, fire, or medical situation is a completely reasonable excuse to become homeless. Not helping those in need, there is no excuse for that. Programs for the homeless like "Dreams for Change" are vital. They help those who have fallen help themselves to get back on their feet. Living in one's vehicle is the last stop before becoming chronically homeless. Instead of working toward making being homeless illegal, work on helping those people cast off the shackles of homelessness. After all, it could be you out there some day.— January 26, 2016 10:27 a.m.