RESPECT

The American people are abusing our homeless. In L.A.'s Skid Row area, Councilwoman Jan Perry plans to clean up the streets along with the police by chasing the homeless out with no apparent thought as to where they will go from there, and L.A.'s Public Works crew has repeatedly dumped homeless person's shopping carts in the streets. 1

This is a poor example for the general public who speaks of disgust at the sight of the homeless. During this time of mass layoffs, many more people could find themselves on the streets. No one is immune to this fate. These people are vulnerable to sickness and predators and every effort should be made to get them off the street and into safe housing.

I am pleased President George W. Bush is giving a $1-billion grant for our homeless. This money will go to soup kitchens, job training, health care, drug and alcohol counseling, more shelters, etc. Thank you, President Bush. Now, if only our local governments would follow his example.

Like Bush said, "We must always remember there are people who hurt in our society." The president added, "I encourage America, as we head into Thanksgiving, to find a program that needs help." 2

P.S. I would like to thank the people who have approached me on the street to tell me they like what I say and especially like one thing about me: I don't ask for money to support my cause, not a penny. The only thing I can say to that is my focus is on those who are less fortunate than I. Americans, I ask that you call your local homeless shelter and see what you can donate, or just give money, that is always appreciated. Let's stop taking away what little people have left and start giving. Thank you. Gary

References:
1 Stewart, Jocelyn Y. "Skid row plan just short of sweeping endorsement," Los Angeles Times, Saturday, November 3, 2001, B1.

2 Jackson, Robert L. "In Time of Giving, Bush Unveils Homeless Aid," Los Angeles Times, Wednesday, November 21, 2001, A20.