Particularly at this time of year, we see those that may be homeless, living on the streets, moving between temporary shelters, including houses of friends, family and emergency accommodations. The legal definition of homelessness varies from country to country, or among different jurisdictions in the same country or region. People who are homeless are most often unable to acquire and maintain regular, safe, protected and adequate housing due to income that is inconsistent or lacking altogether. Homelessness and poverty are interrelated. Some are specialized veterans, now in a state of psychological unrest.
Without thought, many of our citizens view these individuals as deadbeats, disenfranchised from society or even, mentally ill. Often these adjectives are untrue and the circumstances that have propelled them into instability are beyond their control.
For the coming holidays, try adding your support to this group for housing, meals, and recycled clothing. Your efforts don’t have to solve the entire nation’s problems only solve one day’s needs for a homeless person.
Do good and be kind.
“There is a lot that happens around the world we cannot control. We cannot stop earthquakes, we cannot prevent droughts, and we cannot prevent all conflict, but when we know where
the hungry, the homeless and the sick exist, then we can help.”
Jan Schakowsky