1. PERCEPTIONS OF SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS THE HOMELESS
An Independent Learning Project Presented by
Andrea H. Gauntlett
To
Joseph J. Miglio Ed. D.
Faculty Advisor
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Master of Management
Cambridge College
Cambridge, Massachusetts
June 3, 2012
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Acknowledgments
I am thankful for the many individuals who assisted me with this Independent
Learning Project. They made this work and learning possible and I appreciate the
kindness.
They are: Michael Reiser who encouraged me to get started, Yanilsa Nunez who
challenged my discourse; Professor Mark Speller, Victoria McKinney-Vareschi, Brian
Lima, Gary Bonnell, Paula Dill, and Janice Bushel for their inspiration. Dorothy Griffiths
challenged my perceptions and increased my ‘world-view’. Ann, Justin, Mary, and
Pauline Austin, Una Barnett, Janet Currie, Abraham Glaser, for hours of discussions; and
to the many other known and unknown individuals who contributed their time and shared
their viewpoints on the survey. To my immediate family: Carl, Carla, Sheryl, Leslie, and
Karl Gauntlett: you are my rock. Thanks for your unending support. To my advisor Dr.
Joe Miglio, thank you for challenging me to always present my best efforts. Much
gratitude and appreciation goes to my neighbor and friend Christina Bulman, and Ron
Dibona, Cambridge College Writing Lab.
This Research is dedicated to my 13-year-old son Karl, a staunch and vocal
advocate for homeless people everywhere.
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Abstract
This paper examines the unpredictability of homelessness, perceptions of social
responsibility towards the homeless, resources available for the homeless, and improving
the plight of the homeless. The author initiated her research based on the perception that a
disproportionate number of the homeless population abuse allotted services, as there is no
system of accountability tied to benefits distribution.
The thrust of the research is based on the fact that Massachusetts has a liberal
policy of aiding the homeless. It is this liberal policy that has increased the need for more
homeless services, in the state. Utilizing multiple methods of research, this ILP will
assess people’s perception of their social responsibility towards the homeless. Since no
one is immune to homelessness, the author recommends that homeless families,
regardless of their circumstances, be held accountable as socially responsible people.
Hopefully, accountability expectations would encourage homeless beneficiaries to
contribute to the upkeep of their communities and in return acquire new survival skills.
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Table of Contents
Acknowledgments ............................................................................................................ iii
Abstract............................................................................................................................. iv
Table of Contents.............................................................................................................. v
Introduction...................................................................................................................... 1
Background ....................................................................................................................... 5
Problem Statement............................................................................................................ 5
Literature Review………………………………………………………………………..6
Methodology.................................................................................................................... 21
Data Collection................................................................................................................ 23
Summary of Analysis...................................................................................................... 35
Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………....44
Statement of Learning…………..………………………………………………….......47
References........................................................................................................................ 50
Appendices....................................................................................................................... 53
7. Introduction
Being homeless makes one vulnerable to countless ills ranging from illness to
unemployment. Consequently, there is much sympathy towards the homeless population. On
the surface it appears that there are not enough resources to alleviate the problems of
homelessness, but that is not the case. There is an abundance of resources. One problem is
that the resources are not efficiently and effectively utilized. Perception of Social
Responsibility towards the Homeless, takes a “behind the scenes” look at homelessness. The
expected outcome is that more people will advocate for changes in the welfare system –
changes that will demand social responsibility and accountability of the homeless
population. The major cause of misuse and abuse of services has to do with a lack of
accountability from distributors as well as recipients. A lack of accountability triggers other
abuses and siphon services from deserving individuals and creates a deficit of funds. In
today’s economy, many families are one paycheck from homelessness. Therefore, it is
necessary to modify the use of limited resources like welfare dollars and rental assistance
programs for homeless families. Social responsibility means “being responsible for the well
being of others in our community.” (Question 5 Survey Responses) This is where social
responsibility becomes relevant.
Social Responsibility is taking the initiative to do something one feels will benefit a
greater number of people in the community. Based on encounters of working with homeless
families, and low-income families, I chose to investigate perceptions of social responsibility
towards the homeless. Homeless people often spend their days and nights in anyone of many
places like street corners, subway stations, under bridges, and on park benches. They have
no place of their own. Many people double up with friends and family members until they
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are able to move out on their own. While some homeless people manage to improve
themselves and their situations, others tend to develop a debilitating reliance on the social
service system. This unending dependence on government financial assistance infuriates
some and spurs others to take social action.
The homeless usually don’t know where or when they will have their next meal or
where they will spend the night. The homeless who live on the street are very territorial.
They have their own preferred spots and don’t like anyone to invade their territory. They
will get defensive if that happens. There are two dominant views with regards to
homelessness. One view is the perception that people are homeless due to carelessness.
For example, they overspend and live above their means and expect to be bailed out of the
self-inflicted dilemma. Those are seen as trying to get by at other people’s expense. Another
reality is that there are often underlying mental health reasons, as well as family discord, that
lead to homelessness. For example, there have been instances where parents will disown
young adult offspring who choose different lifestyles. The reasons for homelessness are not
always obvious and that’s why some people may wonder about the homeless. Some have not
had to deal with the homeless up close and personal. Some people believe that homelessness
is due to a lack of affordable housing and or economic dearth. This thinking fosters the
belief that if economic remedies are enforced, then, homelessness will cease to be an issue.
There are different shelter programs for homeless families and each tend to target
different populations. Some shelters like the Lowell Transitional Living Center on Appleton
Street, Lowell, MA are geared towards individuals. That shelter provides a meal and a bed
just for the night but the homeless go elsewhere during the daytime. Congregate shelters like
Millie’s Place and House of Hope in Lowell, Massachusetts typically have different families
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living under the same roof in one room setting. Faith-based shelters like, Lazarus House,
The Pine Street Inn, Dentistry Ministry, and the Salvation Army cater to a wider range of
people, and are the first to respond in emergency situations. Then there are Scattered Sites
Family Emergency Shelters (SSFES) like those run by Community Teamwork, Inc. These
consist of 50 leased two and three bedroom apartments in different locations that are utilized
on an as needs basis.
Community Teamwork, Inc. (CTI)
CTI is a non-profit community action agency in Lowell, Massachusetts. It is one of
nine Regional non-profit agencies, across the state that has taken on the fight against
homelessness and homelessness prevention. These regional agencies are the homeless’
biggest and largest housing resource. CTI serves 42 cities and towns across Massachusetts,
19 of which are located along the Merrimack River. Three of the 19 communities (Haverhill,
Lawrence, and Lowell) are gateway cities that offer asylum to refugees and immigrants. For
example, Lowell has multitudes of Cambodians and Liberian refugees. Lowell also has a
population of 106,519 people and is the largest of the three gateway cities (CTI 2012-2014
Strategic Community Action Plan).
The US Census 2010 American Fact Finder indicates that while Haverhill has an
11.8 % poverty level, Lowell has been designated a Renewal Community and
Empowerment Zone due to its poverty rate. Currently, Lowell has a 17.7% poverty level.
(CTI 2012-2014 Strategic Plan p. 4, 5).
CTI manages over $70,000,000 in federal, state, and local funds with 89% of that
being federal and state funds. Its division of Housing and Homeless services runs
Temporary Emergency Scatter Sites Program, Scattered Sites Transitional Apartment
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Program, Housing Consumer Education Center and grant program, Merrimack valley
Regional Network to End Homelessness, Representative Payee Program, Home
Modification Loan program, Foreclosure Prevention, Housing Choice Voucher Program
(section 8) and a much newer Home Base program which started August 1st
, 2011.
A CTI quarterly report confirms that as of August 1, 2011 there were 2,234 Section 8
units leased to families facing homelessness and the waiting list had a remaining 12,624
families. But the Section 8 housing program works similar to the 65% rental subsidy offered
by Home Base. The difference between the two rental assistance programs is that the
Section 8 voucher can last indefinitely. Consequently CTI’s S8 waitlist is usually 8-10 years
long (CTI quarterly report on Homeless Services). Most Section 8 families receive some
other form or multiple forms of government assistance. Just recently, the Department of
Transitional Assistance (DTA) issued an Operations Memo that Transitional Assistance for
Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) cash benefits are limited to 24 months in a
five-year period. Having worked with both low-income and homeless families, it is not
uncommon to serve homeless families who grew up seeing their parents and grandparents on
Welfare benefits. This group is referred to as the multi-generation homeless (Homelessness
in the United States).
The unfortunate reality is that homelessness is an equal opportunity affliction. One
never knows whether, or when, homelessness will strike. Anyone of us can instantly become
homeless. There are frequent stories of fires demolishing homes. A case in point is that in
one week alone close to 100 people became homeless as a result of two fires in one Lowell,
MA community. In the current economy, many working families are one paycheck away
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from homelessness. They have no savings to buffer them in cases of sickness, job loss, or
emergency car repairs. They live, daily and weekly, pay check to pay check.
Background
The author of this publication worked for a Massachusetts non-profit agency and assisted
numerous homeless and economically challenged families to become self-sufficient and
participate in decisions that affect their lives. Notwithstanding, there are still powerful
people who, by their actions, enable the homeless rather than challenge them and hold them
accountable.
This paper addresses the fact that, in Massachusetts, the perception of social responsibility
towards the homeless led to the creation of attractive services and benefits for the homeless.
Consequently, more people are choosing to move to Massachusetts to become homeless.
Problem Statement
This ILP will investigate and highlight the growing dilemma of homelessness.
Utilizing a multiple method of research, this ILP will assess people’s response of their social
responsibility towards homelessness. Additionally, it is anticipated that some understanding
of moral obligation may lead to impactful action and support of this ongoing issue. The
findings of the telephone interviews conducted for this research paper highlights the fact that
homelessness is a growing dilemma. Based on the initial findings, a more in-depth survey
was conducted to poll people’s perception of their social responsibility towards the
homeless. The findings of the in-depth survey are that all people are impacted by the plight
of the homeless. So even though having a moral obligation to help the homeless is a noble
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cause, a failure to hold the homeless accountable for their actions is a grave disservice to any
community.
Literature Review
Causes of Homelessness
We will examine causes of homelessness, homeless assistance programs, perceptions
of the homelessness issue, the impact of social responsibility towards the homeless, and
suggestions for increasing accountability and social responsibility of the homeless
themselves.
The causes of homelessness are:
• Mental illness
• Substance abuse
• Lack of affordable housing
• Post War Afflictions
• Domestic Violence
• Poverty and Natural Disasters
People become homeless for any one or many of the fore mentioned reasons.
Mental Illness
Mental illness is non-discriminatory. You can admit that we all know someone in our
family that has difficulty coping with normal activities. For instance, individuals may have
difficulty establishing long-term relationships, or unable to hold a steady job; or do things
that we consider out of the ordinary in terms of their speech, their appearance or their
behavior. The degree to which this person’s illness affects and or impacts each family
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depends on the availability and effectiveness of support systems. According to the Kim
Foundation, untreated mental illnesses make it difficult to stay employed, pay bills and keep
stable and supportive relationships. It is also reported that although the cause of some mental
illness is unknown, such illness can result from a combination of biological, psychological,
and environmental factors. Some examples of biological factors could be:
• Brain injury
• Gene abnormalities
• Poor nutrition
• Streptococcus bacterial infections.
Psychological factors causing mental illness could be:
• Trauma such as emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Poor ability to relate to others
• Feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, anxiety, anger or loneliness
Environmental factors that could trigger mental illnesses are:
• Death or divorce
• Dysfunctional family life
• Living in poverty
• Changing jobs or schools
• Social or cultural expectations of beauty
• Substance abuse by the person or the person’s parents
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Substance abuse is the excessive and or inappropriate use of behavior altering
substances, such as medicine, illegal drugs, and alcohol. In Judgments of Responsibility,
Weiner shares that substance abuse may be due to prescription medication, alcohol, or even
illegal drug use. He went on to explain that often times, addictions lead to dependence and
eventually a drain on financial resources, resulting in job loss, housing forfeiture, and
destruction of relationships (Weiner 1995).
Now-a-days childhood drug addiction is very common due to easy accessibility, and
advancement in science and technology. Older generations provided more supervision and
demanded more accountability of their children. Times have changed and many children
lack supervision and have easy access to unsafe substances. In the December 9, 2011 edition
of The Sun, one mother shared her story about the manner in which her son developed drug
addiction. She wrote that it began at a party when a ‘friend/acquaintance’ offered her son a
pill for a ‘great high’. He took the pill and that led to a series of experimental drug use and
eventual addiction. (Mom’s Heartbreaking Story p15)
Lack of Affordable Housing
Affordable housing means having the finances to adequately cover housing costs
without undue hardship. At an October 2011 conference on Criminal Justice Re-entry
Strategies (Partnership for Change to end homelessness) facilitators stressed that felony
convictions, low-paying jobs, and unemployment can all lead to the lack of affordable
housing and eventual homelessness. Ex-offenders, when they are released from prison, often
have no money or a home and they end up on the streets. In addition, because child support
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enforcement can now lead to the loss of a driver’s license, if a parent is behind on payments
it could eventually lead to loss of job and homelessness. (Keys to Ending Homelessness
Conference Series)
Post War Afflictions
The average person is not privy to the plethora of challenges that confront our
veterans once they return from deployment to face civilian life. Many veterans struggle to
resume a normal life and a vast number suffer breakdown of one form or another that
consequently results in their homelessness. In March of 2012, while attending a
Homelessness Conference Series, I learned that 25% of homeless families are Veterans who
have served their country in wartime conditions. Some Veterans return home disabled due to
injuries. Some develop substance abuse issues as a result of trying to deal with the trauma
they experienced in the war. More specifically, they may have witnessed babies being
blown to pieces or may have participated in various atrocities. Others feel isolated due to the
inability to adjust to normal everyday life, like how to find a job, or coping with family life,
for instance they may have left when their children were just babies and not had a chance to
adjust to the major changes in home life that took place during their absence. They
sometimes become depressed and may isolate themselves or find it difficult to function in
civilian life. Post war veterans who were in attendance at the Ending Homelessness
Conference Series, shared stories of their experience into homelessness as a result of
“feeling out of place,” having no job and no income, and lacking the stability to get back in
the flow of civilian lifestyle. One veteran shared his experience of having frequent
flashback, which made it very hard for him to cope with civilian lifestyle. He was unable to
work. He became an alcoholic, his wife left him, his whole world fell apart, and he decided
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to move into the woods. There are other examples of the reasons that Veterans are often
victims of unemployment and homelessness. On December 4, 2011, The Sun reported that a
U.S. Marine Corps veteran, who had lost his job, resorted to alcohol and was homeless and
sleeping in the woods. The veteran had worked as a mechanic but was laid off after 20 years
when the auto shop closed down. Then the friend who had been renting him a room lost his
home to foreclosure. Luckily for this vet, he was rescued by another veteran who was
formerly homeless (Donovan p 1, 4).
According to the United States Department of Labor and the National Coalition for
Homeless Veterans, many programs tend to shun veterans because of problems related to
stress-disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, serious psychological problems, and HIV. For
example, veterans with stress disorder often require more time-consuming, and specialized
intensive assessment, and will need referrals to other programs that work with veterans
seeking employment. (Veterans, p. h. U. S. Department of Labor)
Domestic Violence
Although many people are unaware of it, domestic violence is a common cause of
homelessness for many women and children. Some women become victims due to their
undocumented status. They may come to this country illegally and end up pregnant, and
because of their illegal status they suffer in silence until they are forced to flee their abuser.
In other circumstances, the woman may be uneducated and or unemployed and feel
subservient to the individual financing her upkeep. Once she musters enough courage to flee
her abuser, she often flees with just the clothes on her back and no place to go. Many such
homeless people and families do end up in emergency shelters. In a story that appeared in
The Sun on August 27, 2011, a 36-year-old woman was living with her boyfriend who
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worked while she stayed home with three children. One night they had an argument and the
mother was forced from her home and became homeless. Hartwell (The Sun, August 27. P
3) She was fortunate to get out alive unlike many other women in similar situations. In
another newspaper article, (Saturday, December 4, 2011) The Right Doors at the Right Time,
in My Life, is the story of a homeless mother moving from a homeless shelter into permanent
housing. The woman in this article had helped care for her aunt’s two children. Her aunt had
been murdered 14 years earlier, due to domestic violence. (Wurm. The Sun, December 3, p.
4).
Poverty and Natural Causes
Some families are born into poverty and are not cognizant of their potential to
improve their situation. It requires effort, determination, and support services; consider for
instance, getting an education that leads to a better paying job, learning to budget and
developing money management skills, and applying for aid for low-income families.
Although poverty may be a major reason that most families end up homeless, there are
extenuating circumstances like fire loss and a variety of natural disasters like hurricanes and
tornados that could result in anyone being homeless. On Friday, December 9, 2011 the local
newspaper ran the following headline: “ Fire ravages apartments, UMass Lowell students,
others homeless after three-alarm blaze” (Favot The Sun, December 9, p. 1) An early
morning fire had resulted in the destruction of three adjoining buildings and the
displacement of all residents, most of whom were college students.
Employees in the human service and the social service field may be unaware of the
amount of financial assistance paid to persons presenting themselves as homeless. One case
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in point is the circumstance of a family who entered shelter with three children yet the
mother’s income exceeded $1600 per month for unemployment. She had no rental expense,
she paid no bills, and she still failed to save the required 30% each month. In addition to her
unemployment income, she collected $600 per month in food stamp benefits. Anyone who
knows of such abuses should be reporting them. This is an opportunity to participate in
social responsibility towards the homeless. If each one of us took the responsibility to
become socially responsible and report all such abuse, it would help to ensure that much
needed funds go to those who need it the most.
Government Funded Programs
The government is the biggest funder of services for the homeless. The Department
of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is the agency that provides cash assistance (welfare
dollars) for 24-months over a five-year period. (Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive
Office of Health and Human Services, Department of Transitional Assistance) Many
mothers do not work because they fear they will no longer get a welfare check if they have
earned income. The DTA is now starting to hold these welfare recipients accountable by
mandating that they participate in activities that will eventually make them self-sufficient
and wean them off DTA cash assistance. This is a positive move as it is not uncommon to
encounter families who are third generation welfare recipients. In addition to cash benefits,
homeless families also have access to housing assistance programs such as the following:
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Individuals without Dependents
According to Mass Resources, Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Program,
(HPRP) is a federally funded homelessness prevention program. It provides services and
financial assistance to homeless and at risk households in need of short-term housing
assistance. It is primarily for adults without dependent children. Those funded must be able
to improve their housing situation within a short time of getting the funds. HPRP is a 3-year
subsidy program with stipulations to use 60% of the funds in the first two years and 100% of
the funds within three years. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community
Development (DHCD) sets the goals for the state’s HPRP. The two goals are to:
• Reduce the number of families sheltered in hotels and motels
• Help homeless and at risk individuals without children find stable housing
Each city and town sets the goals for its HPRP program. They decide how much each
household gets. Once disbursed, HPRP funds are paid directly to landlords or utility
companies. An eligible person or family must have housing and be at risk of losing that
housing.
The purpose of the HPRP funds is to help resolve the housing crisis, for instance
cover back rent, so the person does not end up homeless. It may also be used to keep current
housing or move into a new unit in cases of impending evictions.
Persons who are homeless, living in shelters, hotels or motels, or on the street may request
HPRP money to request and keep housing, for example, HPRP financial assistance can
cover:
• Three months hotel assistance
• Up to six months back rent
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• Security deposits
• Up to 18 months of utility payments, if six months overdue
• Moving costs
• Short-term storage fees
• 30 days hotel stay if household found permanent housing but unable to move
Care of contact (Mass Resources.org).
Specialized housing programs for Veterans
According to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, (NCHV)
And the United states Department of Labor (DOL) the Homeless Veterans Reintegration
Program, “HVRP is the only federal program wholly dedicated to providing employment
assistance to homeless veterans.” HVRP focuses on emergency shelter, food, and substance
abuse treatments. “It is estimated that 23% of all homeless individuals are veteran”
(dol.gov/vets). Although there are housing resources specifically for homeless veterans that
service is available in a limited number of states and is referred to as United States Code,
Section 2021, as added by section 5 of publication 107-95 the Homeless Veteran Assistance
Act of 2006 (dol.gov/vets).
HVRP is available in 38 states and is primarily for veterans with serious issues such
as psychological problems, post-traumatic stress disorder, extensive substance abuse history,
legal issues, and those with HIV.
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Housing subsidy for parents with dependents:
On August 1, 2011, the Department of Housing and Community Development
(DHCD) rolled out a new housing assistance program called Home Base.
Home Base is a rental assistance program that covers 65% of a family’s monthly
rental costs for up to three years. This new housing program is geared to homeless families
currently housed in hotels and other emergency shelters. It is primarily for parents with
children and pregnant women. Home Base is configured off the fact that it is more cost
effective to subsidize monthly rent as opposed to nightly hotel rates. For instance one night
at a hotel can cost $99, whereas a month’s rent may be $850 for a one bedroom, $950 for a
two bedroom, or $1100 for a three bedroom apartment. The average family has 3-5 children.
Each Home Base family is expected to pay 30% of their income (earned or unearned) for
rent and utilities (MLRI). Families are also expected to utilize the available resources to
stabilize themselves over the next three years and move from stable housing into permanent
housing.
Home Base families must meet the DHCD determined Emergency Assistance criteria.
That included:
• Families sheltered in motels
• Families transitioning from other short-term rental assistance programs
• Families moving out of shelter programs
(Massachusetts Law reform Institute, MLRI)
According to MLRI, Home Base can help pay for rent or other housing costs for up to three
years and participants must follow a Stabilization plan, which is a plan to help families stay
in housing. Home Base also pays:
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• Up to $4,000 a year to help families move into their own apartment.
• A rental subsidy provided families pay 35% of their income for rent and utilities.
Any parent with a child under 18 years of age that met the Emergency Assistance
criteria, could get Home Base.
Every state has its own programs and laws regarding homeless families. However,
Massachusetts is more lenient than most other states. Consequently, this has created a mass
migration of homeless people and an increase in demand for homeless services. The effect is
that we have to create more programs for sustainability. One flyer read, “Two weeks ago,
DHCD announced plans to stop offering Home Base to families applying for shelter and
would continue to only offer shelter to families who are homeless due to fire, natural
disaster, and domestic violence and to parents under the age of 21” (Homes for Families
11/22/11).
In reading different articles and questioning different people, it appears that
Massachusetts, unlike most other sates, has a very liberal approach to aiding the homeless.
As a result, non-residents sometimes can get housed before residents of Massachusetts. This
very liberal policy has resulted in an influx of homeless applicants, many from other states
such as Texas, New Jersey, New York, New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Puerto Rico.
By the second week of November, there were memorandums announcing that Home Base
was low on funds.
Research undertaken by the School of Social Policy and Practice confirmed that
Massachusetts has a history of been sympathetic towards homeless families.
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“Most families in Massachusetts facing homelessness receive assistance through the
Emergency Assistance (EA) program which serves an important function for families facing
housing crises” (Ending Homelessness in Massachusetts, p. 2).
The report on Ending Family Homelessness in Massachusetts further stated,
“Currently, the state has an unlimited level of responsibility in providing shelter to families
for an indefinite period of time. This drives longer shelter stays and results in less than
optimal matches between family needs and level of assistance provided” Culhane, Byrne
(2010).
Daily, one encounters stark reminders of the plight of the homeless. We frequently
observe male and female, young and old standing on street corners pleading for monetary
assistance. They hoist placards detailing that they both unemployed and homeless. In
addition, communities and individuals are inundated with appeals to fund homeless
programs. Most people feel obligated because they believe that it is their social
responsibility to help.
Social responsibility of housing the homeless:
The sense of social responsibility for housing the homeless is overwhelming. Social
responsibility is best described as the feeling of obligation or concern one shows for another
human being in his social circle, be it the family, church, school, workplace, or bigger
community.
The government alone cannot reorganize to curtail abuse of services in the welfare
system. According to authors, Donald E. Chambers and Kenneth R. Wedel, “Social policy
and program solutions are inherently imperfect to some degree and constantly require
24. 18
revision.” (Social Policy and Social Programs, p4). This is where social responsibility
comes into play.
The socially responsible in each community can and should take action to reform
ineffective government policies. People who waste benefits and services are typically very
defensive and will curse and threaten their caseworkers at the drop of a hat. They exhibit
the attitude of “entitlement” and make no effort to educate or improve them selves and
should be held accountable. They should be made to show monthly budgets and proof of
bills paid. That way they will understand and use the many free money management
workshops to improve themselves. They are quick to tell you what extras their kids must
have. They spend their cash allotments on cable, cell phones, and accessories while their
bills go unpaid. According to one survey respondent, there is no need to work for money if
it will be given to you.
“… People are quick to take advantage of something that has no requirements. If there was
a million dollar scholarship for someone who didn't have a home and all they had to do was
write their name down and they were awarded, everyone would do it. There would be no
need to work for the money if it’s given. That's how housing goes, people move out of their
houses and into the system knowing a house will be provided for them, however there was
no need for them to move out. It just seemed like the easier, less difficult option.” (Question
6, survey response)
Those are a few of the many reasons why social responsibility for homelessness should
strategically focus on counteracting abuse in the welfare system.
The perception of social responsibility towards the homeless motivates many caring
individuals to devote countless time and energy to advocate for services for the homeless.
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However, not all homeless people are deserving of the limited available benefits. For
example, consider family “A,” when you take them to the furniture bank, they are
conscientious enough to take just what they need. Then you have family “B,” they will clean
out the warehouse and leave nothing for another homeless family. My position is that we
should prioritize aid to people who are victims of natural disasters. They are generally
appreciative and tend to make great strides once they obtain stable housing and supportive
services. Those appreciative people make advocacy a worthwhile undertaking.
According to social psychologist Bernard Weiner, judgments of responsibility is
about helping, and helping behaviors are determined by inferences of deservingness and
responsibility (Weiner 1995, p.185). He refers to the fact that daily, one is bombarded with
questions and issues of responsibility, blame, and punishment, such as, “Why are there so
many homeless people? Is it their own fault?” and “Who or what is responsible?” (Weiner
1995, p.1)
In Judgments of Responsibility, it is stated, “Conservatives believe more than liberals
that individuals are responsible for their plight” (Weiner 1995, p.181). Essentially, people
who become homeless as a result of carelessness should be held responsible for creating the
condition in which they find themselves. But Weiner also points out that because there are
insufficient resources to help everyone, resources and needs must be balanced (Weiner
1995, p. 181). He explains further that assistance should be given based on urgency or
severe need and that the effectiveness of the assistance given depends on whether it makes a
difference (Weiner 1995, p.182)
Judgments of Responsibility, also cites the following factors as “Perceived Causes of
Poverty:
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Individualistic causes
• Laziness and lack of effort
• No attempts at self-improvement
• Alcohol and drug abuse
• Lack of thrift and proper money management
Social causes
• Failure of society to provide good schools
• Failure of industry to provide enough jobs
• High taxes and no incentives
• Prejudice and discrimination
• Being taken advantage of by the rich
The homeless situation is made worse by the nationwide economic downturn. Many
businesses have closed and more and more employees have lost their jobs and are unable to
pay their bills. Some have lost their homes to foreclosures while others have been evicted.
Communities and individuals are inundated with appeals to fund homeless programs.
As a result of Massachusetts’ liberal policy towards low-income and homeless
families, anyone presenting as homeless can access benefits even if a resident of another
state. There should be fixes in place whereby the needs of long time residents are resolved
before attending to the needs of the newly arrived.
The Effect of Social Responsibility
In Massachusetts, the perception of social responsibility for housing the homeless
has resulted in a liberal support system for the homeless. It is common knowledge amongst
27. 21
the homeless that Massachusetts provides more aid to low income and homeless families
than most other states. As a result of the many support services and programs for homeless
families, countless people move to Massachusetts to become homeless. Due to the influx,
there has been an increase in the number of families seeking housing assistance. Another
factor that impacts the influx of homeless population is health insurance coverage. In
Massachusetts all families must have health insurance coverage. Those that cannot afford
coverage automatically get Mass Health coverage. It is safe to say that the feeling of social
responsibility towards the homeless triggered the influx in the demand for increased housing
assistance and social service benefits in this state. The increase in demand for homeless
services has depleted many resources resulting in the closure of several housing assistance
programs. There used to be a program called Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid
Transition program (HEART Act), which was referred to as ‘rapid rehousing’. That program
ran out of funds in 2009. Next was the RAFT program that offered Rental Assistance for
Families in Transition. There was also the SHIFT program offered funds to Stabilize
Housing for Individuals and Families in Transition. It provided housing funds for homeless
families. Rapid rehousing resulted in hotel and motel stays that led to exorbitant shelter
costs, so Home Base was created.
The National Alliance to End Homelessness and the Public Broadcasting Service
(PBS) reported that the homelessness crisis has worsened since the economic downturn that
began in the latter part of 2007. It was also reported that 23 percent of homeless families are
“chronically homeless” (Facts and Figures: The Homeless - NOW on PBS).
According to HUD an additional 1.56 million people used emergency shelter or
transitional housing during 2008 and there were 643,067 homeless persons nationwide in
28. 22
January 2009. (NAEH) Although government agencies are low on funds and will cut some
housing programs, the need for housing amongst the homeless has increased. The high
volume of low-income and homeless families in the state, gave rise to renewed efforts by
many community action agencies to assist the homeless, across the state.
Methodology
Guiding Assumptions:
In order to compare and contrast Perceptions of Social Responsibility towards the
Homeless, the author did some investigation starting with a focus group interview. The
purpose of the interview was to gauge the views of individuals from different communities
across the country based on observations that many homeless families in Massachusetts are
non-Massachusetts residents. Subjects were either acquaintances or family members. They
were selected based on age, work ethic, career field, and involvement with diverse
populations. For example, one subject had lived in a Hassidic community in Brooklyn, N.Y.
for 35 years. That individual had also worked as an emergency room nurse at a Catholic
hospital, in another borough. She has lived in a retirement community in Land O’ Lakes
Florida the past 20 years. The objective was to solicit a forthright response from each
participant, of their views of the homeless population in their hometown communities. The
objective was to get the views of experienced and outspoken participants from diverse
communities.
All the responses were documented, and analyzed based on the participant’s
perceptions of why so many families in their communities were homeless. Each response
was then given a weight of 10 points per person. Of the ten people polled, 31.25% felt that
29. 23
homelessness resulted from carelessness or financial mismanagement, and not necessarily
from uncontrollable or unpredictable circumstances. Another 31.25% attributed the
homeless population to the economic factors like job loss and home foreclosures. 12.5%
blamed mental illness like veterans with PTSD chronic homelessness for the homeless
population. Another 12.5% felt that homelessness was due to unpredictable causes ranging
from poverty to natural disasters. The final 12.5% blamed government policy for creating a
social service system that provides incentives for being homeless. For instance, families that
started working would lose food stamps while those who did not work would get an
extension of benefits. An equal number of those polled attribute homelessness to extenuating
situations as well as carelessness.
The focus group consisted of older and experienced individuals mostly from the 60
and up age group. I asked two open-ended questions and allowed the subjects to speak to
their perceptions of the homelessness issue. They were asked two questions:
A. What do you think causes so many people to become homeless?
B. What is your perception of social responsibility towards the homeless?
Data Collection:
In telephone interviews conducted amongst participants of the age group12 to 82
years old, each was asked the open ended question: what are your general views on
homelessness and the homeless population where you live? They gave the following
responses:
The 82 year-old retired emergency room nurse, from Brooklyn, NY is also a 20
year resident of Fort Lauderdale, FL. She said most people are homeless because they are
30. 24
careless and it is the government’s fault. For instance, the system encourages homelessness
by rewarding generational families (unemployed mothers, grandmothers, and children) with
free welfare assistance.
The 64 year-old Lab Technician from Westbury, NY expressed that; some people
become homeless due to hardships and others as a result of their lavish lifestyle of living
above their means.
One 50-year old NYC Board of Education employee shared that he and his family
were homeless, when he was 15 years old. They lived in the city and could not afford the
high rental costs. He feels that fewer families would be homeless if there were more
affordable housing.
One seventh-grader thinks that many families become homeless because they are
poor and have no jobs. He expressed that homeless families need to have more children so
they can get more money. “People will feel sorry for the kids and will give the parents
money to feed those children,” he said.
The 78-year-old Retired Special Education Teacher from Queens, NY said people
become homeless for several reasons such as no job, no social security, and no disability.
There are still others that have never dealt with hardship and they become difficult and
disrespectful so parents put them out because they don’t know a better way to handle the
situation.
The 50-year-old Electrical Engineer from Tyngsboro, MA expressed that
homelessness could have been due to physical or mental health issues. He feels that
government benefits should be based on whether families are homeless due to natural
disasters and not simply because they prefer to live free, and not have to work.
31. 25
The 58-year-old Dialysis Supervisor, from Irvington, NJ felt the reason some people
are homeless could be due to job loss, lack of family support system, and due to mental
health issues. She expressed that the government should prioritize aid to those who were
working and lost their jobs. She explained that the government could curtail abuse in the
benefits system by assisting people based on merit and set maximum limits. For instance
have recipients do some form of community service in order to collect a check.
The 51 year old, International Banker, shared that her observation was that
homeless families have conveniences and amenities that working families don’t have
because working families have to bay bills, whereas the homeless are allowed to life free at
taxpayer’s expense.
The 69 year-old Retired Banker and Landlord from Westbury, NY felt many
people end up homeless due to circumstances beyond their control such as job loss,
displaced housing, and poor health. However he also blamed the government system for
encouraging homelessness. For instance, when someone is always providing for you it
lessens the probability that you will take the initiative to do anything for yourself. He feels
the government should bring back the draft and require 15-18 year-old to spend three years
in the military as is done in Taiwan and Thailand. Such a remedy, he feels, would create
disciplined, responsible, and accountable youths.
The 75 year-old Retired psychiatric nurse and Motivational Speaker from Long
Beach, CA encounters families left homeless mostly as a result of bank foreclosures, and the
Stock market crash. She expressed the view that others who find themselves homeless end
up that way as a result of living above their means and buying on credit when they have no
32. 26
jobs. She feels that, if more people lived within their means there would be far fewer
homeless families.
Analysis:
Data Analysis Based on Telephone Interviews:
Category Reason Persons Weight (10
points per
person)
1
Economy
• Stock Market
Crash
• Foreclosures
• Job Loss
• Inability to pay
bills
• Rental cost too
high
Long Beach, CA
Irvington, NJ
Westbury, NY
Queens, NY
Brooklyn, NY
10 * 5 = 50
=31.25%b
2
Financial
Mismanagement
• Overspending
• They don’t know
better
• Inability to pay
bills
• Lack of family
support
• Run Away
Tyngsboro, MA
Queens, NY
Long Beach, CA
Queens, NY
Irvington, NJ
10 * 5 = 50
= 31.25%
3
Government
Policy
• System encourages
dependence
• System creates a
cycle
Westbury, NY
Fort Lauderdale, FL
10 * 2 = 20
= 12.5%
4
Mental Illness
• Mental illness
• Veterans
Tyngsboro, MA
Irvington, NJ
10 * 2 = 20
= 12.5%
5
Unpredictable
Circumstance
• Uncontrollable
cause
• Poor and can’t
afford a place to
live
Tyngsboro, MA
Tyngsboro, MA
10 * 2 = 20
= 12.5%
34. 28
Survey Questions:
1. What can schools do to help the homeless?
2. What can churches do to help the homeless?
3. What can corporations do to help the homeless?
4. What can the homeless do to help themselves?
5. What does social responsibility means to you?
6. Should there be a state residency requirement to qualify for housing if you are
homeless? Yes. No. Why?
7. Have you ever been homeless? Yes. No.
8. Does everyone have an obligation to help the homeless? Yes. No. Why?
9. What is your age?
18 to 30
31 to 49
Over 50
10. What causes people to be homeless?
Economy
Overspending
Government Policy
Mental Illness
Uncontrollable cause
Other
35. 29
Data Collection:
1. As a tool for data collection, I used the medium, Survey Monkey.Com to administer
a basic Survey of ten questions using the most common themes garnered from the
focus interviews. This additional data was gathered using a non-control group. The
questions were a combination of yes/no responses and open-ended questions.
2. The purpose of the open response questions was so participants would not feel
threatened to share their thoughts. I also grouped participant’s age as follow:
18-30
31- 49
50 and above
3. The significance of the 18-31years, age range, is to understand the thinking of that
specific age range, as it appears that a majority of homeless mothers fall within a 21-
31-years age range. I wanted to capture their perception of social responsibility and
their thinking in general. There were a total of 60 requests from the following
groups: 10 students from Cambridge College, 10 acquaintances, 20 unknown
participants via online medium, and 20 Residential Services Programs employees
from the agency where I work. Of the 60 requests, there were 44 responses. 33
surveys were done on line and the other 11 were entered manually for those who
opted to use the write-in method.
36. 30
Survey Question 6: Should there be a state residency requirement to qualify for
housing if you are homeless?
41. 35
Summary of Analysis:
• 44 respondents completed the non-controlled Survey.
• 37 of them attributed homelessness to economic conditions.
• 33 of the 44 also attributed homelessness to mental health issues.
• 27 of the 44 felt natural disasters / uncontrollable factors caused homelessness.
• 27 of 44 felt other factors like divorce, apathy; lifestyle such as same sex marriage,
and ignorance caused homelessness.
• 23 of 44 felt overspending caused homelessness.
• 14 of the 44 respondents faulted government policy for the current homelessness. So
overall, economic conditions, mental health issues, and natural disasters are
considered to be the primary cause of homelessness.
A majority of respondents, 73 percent favor a state residency requirement for
housing the homeless. Indications are that out of state residents exacerbate the homeless
crisis in Massachusetts. Of all 44 people surveyed only 7 had them selves experienced
homelessness.
When they were asked whether everyone has an obligation to help the homeless, 20
of 44 answered yes, and 24 answered no. Allowing for a margin of error implies that 50
percent feel obligated to help the homeless while the other 50 percent may be thinking that
the homeless are responsible for their own predicament. Either way, it is evident that the
perception of social responsibility towards the homeless impacts everyone. If I had to do this
survey again, I would seek the perspective of currently homeless people and ask them the
same set of 10 questions. This would be very valuable information, and more so, if it came
from those who have benefited repeatedly from housing rental assistance programs over the
42. 36
years. Another advantage is that homeless advocates would understand the thinking of those
who prefer to live off government subsidies rather than work towards self-sufficiency and
economic independence.
Commentary on Analysis and Impact
Immigrant Perspective on Homelessness
Working Immigrants will tell you that they walked 8 miles to and from school but it
helped them to develop resolve and character. Immigrants come here to work, so once they
get here they make sure they find a job. Eight of them may live in one room but it doesn’t
stop them from getting ahead. Overcrowding motivates them to work more and save more so
they can save enough to improve their situation.
During a casual conversation, in downtown Lowell, an immigrant, shared how she
learned to not overspend. She grew up with her grandmother who used to tell her to “Live
within your means. Don’t be green eyed and go wanting what other people have. Keeping up
with the Jones’ is not a good idea. You don’t know how they got what they have so don’t
envy them. Live within your means. You will be happy because you won’t have to steal and
end up in prison.” Her family would celebrate Christmas in their one bedroom home. They
would decorate with balloons and Christmas cards, and painted the roots of the trees in their
front yard with limestone. On Christmas Eve she would tie an old stocking on the front door
and pray for a gift from Santa. Christmas Day, they would go to a Caroling service at the
local church, have breakfast, open their stocking foot and cook a nice Christmas meal. That
first year, Santa left her some crackers, cheese and a blue plastic reindeer. She was
extremely happy because she was not used to getting gifts, other than a book or two from
her Sunday school teachers. The good thing about her humble experience is that she learned
43. 37
to live within her means. As a parent, she gave her children practical gifts like books they
could read, learn from, and enjoy. They learned that it was ok to not have what their friends
had and still be happy. She taught her family customs and values. Now no matter where in
the country they may be they still look forward to coming home to be with family. For that
immigrant, Christmas means being together with family and less about gifts.
A Second Model of Data Collection: Case Analysis
Observation:
As an employee in the human service industry the author sees patterns of the
misappropriate use of housing assistance funds. The pervasive question is whether or not the
abuse of housing subsidy and indiscriminate distribution of funds creates an influx in the
system. There is the probability that abuse of government aid adds to the increasing demand
for more homeless services.
Below are some case histories based on observations of a case manager, in one
Scattered Sites Family Emergency Shelter program, over a 10-month period.
Case Studies
The following five scenarios all involve homeless families.
Case Study 1: Careless spending and lack of accountability
There are documented histories of this shelter resident’s propensity to overspend and
live beyond their means. Overspending is a major reason that many families get evicted and
become homeless. For example, most want to have cable and the reason is always the same,
“my kids need something to watch, and my kids have to have cable”. One woman ran up
44. 38
over $656 in unpaid cable bills while in shelter and neglected to save the required 30% of
her $1207, monthly income. She had shoddy credit and took out a cable contract in her 4yr-
old daughter’s name using the child’s social security number. Needless to say, that child is
destined to repeat the homeless cycle as a result of her mother’s irresponsible and selfish
actions. It is common practice for parents to spend their Social Security and Child Support
checks on clothes and electronics while their bills remain unpaid.
Case Study 2: Lack of initiative.
Some shelter families feel that they have to keep up with their neighbors. They
refuse to walk with their kids to the library and spend quality time with their kids while
educating themselves in the process. These families are not the only ones with questionable
decision making skills. The government funds their lifestyle and provides incentives for
irresponsible actions. The average shelter family lives rent free in three bedroom units that
costs DHCD $875-$1100 per month. They are allowed to get away with doing as they please
and still collect their benefits. In my view, housing programs should be penalized for not
meeting state program requirements then maybe they would be forced to hold families
accountable for their indiscretions. At times when case managers attempt to hold families
accountable they are made to feel guilty. “ X is homeless and already has enough barriers. It
is your job to make X life easier.” Parents who keep their kids out of school 13 days because
they wake up late and miss the bus should be held accountable. It is not fair for that child to
miss out on critical learning opportunities.
45. 39
Case Study 3: Shelter families who want to improve but do not know how
One shelter family owned two vehicles and was driving without insurance. The male
had three motor vehicle tickets totaling $875. He had a speeding ticket for driving over
25mph in a school zone, another for driving without insurance, and a third for overdue
excise tax. But he was relentless in his job search and landed a job that paid $450 per week.
He got his check via electronic payment and opened a bank account. Instead of paying down
his debts, he gave $200 cash towards food cost for a relative’s funeral. He then applied for
Comcast cable at a cost of $174 per month. He paid $24 to alter a pair of donated pants,
when for that price he could have bought three used pairs at a second hand store. He also
overdrew his new account by $275. In the meanwhile, his domestic partner had a 2yr old
Trinity Ambulance bill for $1000 with a court-mandated judgment to pay $50 per month,
but she earns $150 per week. This family gets food stamp benefits of $472 per month. Their
joint monthly expense consists of $150 per month for auto insurance, $70 for telephone bill.
Yet, they did not pay a single debt. Fortunately, unlike most homeless shelter residents, this
couple had only one child. The first suggestion for this family was that the male
immediately cancel his Comcast plan, then go down to the public library and read up on
Massachusetts’s motor vehicle laws. It was explained to him that he could not afford to give
a $200 cash gift so the next time relatives want money to let them know that he lives in a
shelter. He said he was too embarrassed to do that. The case manager explained to him that
his immediate family was his first priority and next time to let his relatives know that he is
unable to help them but once his situation improves he will pay his dues. The male did go to
the library and read up on motor vehicle traffic rules. He cancelled his cable contract, and he
has been saving his 30%.
46. 40
Case Study 4: Homeless families who will change if pushed to do so
This person had been in shelter for 10 months, yet she was on her third case manager
because no one wanted to be bothered with her. She was convinced that she would get Home
base. Imagine her shock when case manager #3 told her she would not recommend her, as
she had done nothing to improve her situation. It was explained to her that her best chances
of getting stable housing was for her to get a job and start doing something for herself
because her CORI record (Criminal Offender Registry Index) severely limited her chances
of qualifying for public housing. Her case file listed her as being “bipolar with schizoid-
effect. Not long after that conversation, this individual checked herself into a drug rehab
program, despite her prior denials of not “using.” Her attitude has been remarkable since and
she is much improved. She is polite, courteous, and respectful. Hopefully, she will complete
her rehabilitation program.
Case Study 5: Homeless Shelter Families that can and will do better if held
accountable.
This person earns $570 per week. He and his son, a high school student, live rent-
free in a 2-bedroom unit funded by DHCD. This shelter resident is 47 years old and from
Puerto Rico. He fathered seven children but pays child support for the two youngest boys,
one of whom lives with him. He came into shelter owing $14,000 in child support payments.
He was advised to put the 30% required savings allotment toward paying down his child
support debt, since he was living rent-free, and unable to open a bank account because of his
child support debt. He declined to make the extra payments. He said was already paying
$150 a week and wanted to wait for his tax refund. But the police came looking for him and
47. 41
even though he proved that he was paying the child support arrears, he lost a day’s wages
and had to pay a $275 processing fee. The lesson here is first things first. His child support
payments are now down to $9,000. His only other expenses are: food, transportation, and a
minimal fee for his methadone patch. Like a majority of shelter residents, this client is a
former drug addict but is recovering.
Commentary on Analysis and Impact
Once approved for housing, the homeless live rent-free in spacious apartment units.
The system pays their utilities allowance, gives them food stamps and in some instances an
additional cash allowance. Yet some of them refuse to save the mandated 30% of their gross
monthly income. Some homeless families make a living off the homeless assistance housing
subsidies. They present themselves as homeless to get into a program then stay in the
program till their time expires then move on to another program and start the whole cycle all
over again. Once the chronic homeless have cycled through a program and exhausted every
available resource they move on to another program, sometimes in the same city. If society
fails to hold them accountable for helping themselves and continue to enable their lifestyle
they will always be around and that perpetuates the homeless condition and creates an influx
in the system.
It is commonly believed that the chronically homeless never had anything and won’t/
or can’t work. Some are believed to be professional loafers who contribute nothing
worthwhile to society. However, some people are that way because no one bothered to teach
them another way, like helping them develop life skills so they will be able to function on
their own. Some people feel that the homeless should be doing something during the day to
48. 42
earn their government benefits. Others have voiced that many community-based programs
need help and the homeless population could assist by providing much needed help. Even
helping to clean neighborhood streets would be a worthwhile contribution from someone
with no income tax obligation.
One person interviewed, voiced that there are different aspects to homelessness and
added that the condition should not be encouraged with free benefits. Someone else
expressed that the homeless should be made to go out and volunteer in different places. A
third person said that hospitals and nursing homes are saddled with overworked employees
and could use help with non-medical stuff. She used the example of one nurse serving ten
patients. She pointed out that a homeless person, as a volunteer, could get water for the
patients, take blood pressure, empty the garbage, sweep the floors, change the bed linen, and
that help would be a great service to the nurse, the patients, as well as the community. She
further pointed out that the hospital staff being assisted by the homeless/volunteer would get
to know these persons and may decide to hire them, in the future. She ended by sharing that
although these are hard economic times, there are still lots of jobs out there for those willing
to make the necessary adjustments.
The case manager serves, advocates for, mentor, coach, and assist homeless families
to transition into stable homes. It is disturbing that some in leadership positions will and do
instruct case managers to transport all homeless families to their appointments yet do not
hold these families accountable for taking the initiative to practice self reliance, as in, take
incremental steps to navigate your way to appointments via public transportation, so you get
in the habit of thinking for yourself and doing for yourself. Yes, the homeless do have many
barriers, however, it is to their benefit that they develop themselves as capable human
49. 43
beings. Homeless families can be coached, and mentored to do things for themselves. They
need practice in doing little things so that they can learn self-reliance, be independent, and
develop self-sufficiency skills to transition into the working world and be on their own. It is
about the concept of teaching a man to fish as opposed to giving him a fish. Inspiring and
motivating others to take that step towards change is not that easy but it is doable. When
people are not held accountable and there are no consequences they tend to not care.
Everyone has it within him to be socially responsible.
50. 44
Conclusion
Overview Based on Research Findings
Homelessness is a touchy issue due to its unpredictable nature. The homeless
consists of people who were born into poverty, some who are mentally ill, drug addicts,
alcoholics, and people who find themselves homeless due to unforeseen situations. A case in
point is a refugee mother whose husband threatened to have her to deported. This single
parent fled an abusive relationship and did not file for child support because of her ex-
husband’s threat. She slept in her car and showered in public restrooms while working
several jobs. She shuffled her children amongst extended family members.
Resolving the homelessness crisis is a complicated issue due to the various causes,
the growing number of homeless families, and the generational and chronic homeless, some
of whom abuse the welfare system. However, there is a need for improved procedures for
managing the homeless benefits and monitoring the homeless population. It would be
helpful to have a universal tracking and measurement system in place nationwide. That
would allow for tracking, monitoring and managing the chronic homeless. The anticipation
is that, such a measure would free up necessary resources for those made homeless as a
result of natural disasters, or due to illness.
One interview participant expressed that some politicians and landlords work to
perpetuate homelessness while they generate more income revenue. His view was that
powerful and influential people decide what gets done. Notwithstanding, each person can
impact homelessness, either from a socially responsible stance or from a corporate social
responsibility framework. In order for the chronic homeless to improve themselves, their
advocates need to think within the realm of what will enable the homeless to contribute
51. 45
productively to society. Each of us has the potential to make a positive difference in the life
of another person. We can all help the homeless, one person at a time. Help them discover a
purpose and help them understand that they too can make valuable contribution to their
communities instead of feeling that society owes them a livelihood.
Whether we advocate for more tax dollars for Veterans, the elderly and infirmed, the
mentally challenged, or the chronic homeless, homelessness and housing effects entire
communities and must be effectively managed.
If we are serious about an end to homelessness, we can use effective and cost efficient
methods like encouragement, inspiration, mentoring and, coaching to strengthen and
develop those of our fellowmen who lack the will and drive to develop on their own.
I favor a major restructuring of the ways the government funds homeless programs.
• Prioritize aid to families who are homeless through no fault of their own.
• Limit aid for those who are homeless through their own negligence.
In some communities there are systems in place that dictate how problems are
resolved. We need an infrastructure that condition people to live a socially responsible
lifestyle so they contribute to the betterment of their community and society as a whole.
It is cited in Social Policy and Social Programs, that a man said to the Universe,
“Sir, I exist.”
The Universe replied, “However, that fact has not created in me a sense of obligation.”
(Chambers and Wedel, 5th
edition)
Overall, there needs to be more social awareness of homelessness issues. That can be
done through conferences where formerly homeless persons share their experiences with
schools, businesses, and churches so that all communities will be made more aware of
52. 46
hidden factors that can contribute to homelessness. The reason there needs to be an
increased social awareness of homeless issues is that as a society what affects one will
eventually affect all of us. For instance when increasing number of individuals perpetrate
welfare fraud, it negatively impacts those who need benefits and are without an income.
Welfare fraud also increases the taxpayers expenses as they must pay higher taxes to
compensate for a shortfall in government revenue, used to meet the growing demand for
welfare benefits. Some ways to increase social awareness and perception of social
responsibility towards the homeless are:
• Hold the chronically homeless accountable and help them by encouraging them to
take small steps to improve themselves.
• Link benefits with milestone accomplishments, like extend working parents
childcare voucher, if they increase their work hours.
• Another social awareness and perception tool could be to increase the involvement
of area churches in dealing with homeless issues.
Encourage churches by giving them grants to increase their existing community service
outreach programs. Many churches already assist families with food vouchers and utility
bills based on meager donations. The churches could help many more families if there was
substantial funding. Government subsidies to community-based churches could help
streamline and prioritize service to residents thus stabilizing communities, one family at a
time. This would also curtail generational dependence on welfare benefit. There could be
mentorship programs in place to increase self-development and foster self-sufficiency.
Churches know the needy families in their communities and often have an established
relationship with those families and can mentor families.
53. 47
Statement of Learning
My research on Perceptions of Social Responsibility towards the Homeless has
positively impacted my view of homeless people. The literature review made me aware of
hidden factors that can result in homelessness. I realized that homelessness is non-
discriminatory. It can afflict anyone at anytime from natural disasters such as earthquakes,
tornados, tsunami, fires, illness, accidents, and job loss. In Judgments of Responsibility,
Weiner points out that “being depressed has a dramatic negative effect on social
relationships, resulting in the absence of positive, supportive involvements with others.”
Weiner (1995, p.119)
Many of the families that I work with in the shelters, say that they do not get along
with parents and siblings. Prior to my research, if someone said that they were unable to
work because of their depression, I would wonder whether it was an excuse that people use
when they don’t want to be held accountable for their behaviors. As a result of my new
awareness I try to keep an open mind and not be judgmental. I practice viewing everything
through different frames.
When I started writing this paper, I was at a very different place due to my limited
views and perspectives on homelessness and the homeless. My work with homeless families
involves moving families out of hotels into short-term housing, linking them to programs for
money management and or job training, locating stable housing, and then transitioning these
families over to long-term housing. I work with families that became homeless due to drug
and alcohol abuse, young mothers with children from multiple fathers, and those who had
54. 48
never worked but were surviving off government subsidies over several generations. There
are instances of employees being told that it is their responsibility to use their personal
automobile to transport the families to their different appointments because “families
already have too many barriers and should not have to contend with transportation issues”. It
was that directive that prompted me to do a paper on homelessness. My aim, when I began
this research, was to address the issues of those families who settle for welfare benefits and
refuse to work despite their able-bodied status. My thinking, then, was that it is the welfare
system and indulgent, decision makers that enable chronic homelessness. However, the
book, Social Policy and Social Programs explains the manner in which some social
programs are administered. Chambers and Wedel wrote:
“Public policies generally are not designed with the needs of individuals in mind; rather they
are designed for groups of people who share a common social problem.” Consequently,
“Social policies and programs will fail some, perhaps many individuals on some occasions.”
Chambers and Wedel (Fifth Edition P.8)
The research also opened my mind to the realization that things are not always as
they appear on the surface. For example, it is tempting to think only of the free, spacious,
and multiple rooming accommodations that these homeless, non-working families enjoy
while hard working families survive on much less. The study documenting that:
“Living space increases the occurrence of annoying incidents, for example, interfering with
the movements of others.” Weiner (1995, p. 207) made me aware that there is more to the
space allotment. Having done the research, I now realize that it makes sense as to the reason
that these stressed out, and homeless families deserve to have spacious accommodations.
The added space decreases the likelihood of conflict and confrontation.
55. 49
I also became aware of the fact that grossly overweight people may have other issues
unrelated to their food intake, such as a hormone imbalance. In Weiner’s book, the chapter
on responsibility and stigmatization, it reads, “In both cases it was stated that the individual,
although the best qualified job applicant, was not hired because the department head
‘doesn’t like to be around fat people’.” Weiner (1995, p.77) I no longer think of obese
individuals as slovenly, but see them as saddled with the burden of being unemployable
because hiring people don’t like “fat” people.
Overall the experience brought about a positive insight within me. Although, I still
have strong views, my altered approach is to pause, think, and ponder the fact that, there are
other lenses through which I can view each scenario. I discovered that I am amenable to
looking for workable solutions and positive options. For example, instead of taking the
stance of, “I don’t do taxi service.” I now consider the different ways to improve
transportation for the homeless.
Working on this ILP has been an enlightening experience for me. I have become
more understanding, and accepting of others’ viewpoints and am more likely to weigh my
ideas before putting them on the table. I am more cognizant of the fact that each day
presents new opportunities to learn, to grow, and to share.
.
56. 50
References
Annual Update 2011 Opening Doors United States Interagency Council on Homelessness
(USICH) (n.d.) United States Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH)
Retrieved December 31, 2011, from
http://www.usich.gov/opening_doors/annual_update_2011/
Austin, J. E. (2000). The collaboration challenge: How nonprofits and businesses succeed
through strategic alliances. San Francisco, Calif.: Jossey-Bass Publishers.
Chambers, D & Wedel, K. Social policy and social reform (5th
edition)
Community Teamwork, Inc., (2011). Strategic Action Plan (Conference-2014, Lowell, MA.
Donovan, M. (2011, December 4). On front lines for vets in need The Sun, pp. 1-4.
Fact sheet: Transitional living program for older homeless youth. (n.d.).
Administration for Children and Families (U.S Department of Health & Human
Services) Retrieved December 18, 2011,
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/fysb/content/youthdivision/programs/tlpfactsheet.
Facts and figures: The homeless (2009, June 26). PBS: (Public Broadcasting Service)
Retrieved December 10, 2011 http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/526/homeless-
facts.html
Favot, S. (2011, December 9). Fire ravages apartments. The Sun, p. 1.
Federal government aid for the homeless - A timeline of government involvement, The
Mckinney-vento Homeless Assistance Act, Federally Subsidized Housing, Public
Housing www.library index.com/pages/282/Federal-Government-Aid-
Homelessness.html Retrieved December 18, 2011
Hartwell, M. (2011, August 27). Devens Shelter gives homeless families in transition hope,
57. 51
help The Sun, p. 3.
Homeless Program. (n.d.). Department of Commerce Home Retrieved December 18, 2011,
from http://www.commerce.wa.gov/site/823/default.aspx
MassResources.org Home. Homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing program HPRP
in Massachusetts. (n.d.). Retrieved December 18, 2011,
http://www.massresources.org/hprp.html
Hovanasian, D. (2011, August 21). A warm nest The Sun, p. 13.
Keating, E., Pradham, G., Wassall, G., & DeNatale, D. (2008). Passion and purpose: Raising
the fiscal fitness bar for Massachusetts’ nonprofits. Understanding Boston, 1(June
2008)
Kotler, P., & Lee, N. (2005). Corporate social responsibility: doing the most good for your
company and your cause. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley.
Lesley University, Child homelessness initiative (Oct. 19, 2011) - Cambridge, MA.
Retrieved December 31, 2011, from http://www.lesley.edu/child-homelessness-
initiative/index.html
Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance Criminal Justice Re-Entry Strategies (2012)
(Conference)
Mass Law Reform Institute (2011). Assisting families experiencing homelessness MCLE, 15
Mom's heartbreaking story of a child's drug addiction (2011, December 1) The Sun, p. 15
Moran, L. (2011, October 20) Church Oks downtown homeless-center plan. The Sun, pp. 1-
9.
Regional Housing Network of Massachusetts. (n.d.). Mass Housing Consumer Education
Centers. Retrieved December 18, 2011, from
58. 52
http://www.masshousinginfo.org/mnpha/aboutus.html
United States Department of Labor - Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program. The U.S.
Department of Labor Home Page. Retrieved December 18, 2011, from
http://www.dol.gov/vets/programs/hvrp/hvrp-bp.htm
United States Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) (n.d.) United States
Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) Retrieved December 18, 2011, from
http://www.usich.gov/
Culhane, D. & Byrne (2010, May 11).
University of Pennsylvania Scholarly Common Service (2010) Ending family homelessness
in Massachusetts: New approach for the emergency assistance program.
Weiner, B. (1995). Judgments of responsibility: a foundation for a theory of social conduct.
New York: Guilford Press.
Wurm, M. (2011, December 3). The right doors at the right time in my life The Sun, p. 4.
59. 53
Appendices
Appendix A – Excerpts of Telephone Interviews:
A 75-year-old retired Psychiatric Nurse, Senior Olympian and, Motivational Speaker,
Long Beach, California said:
“Here, everybody is in the parks now. They have no place to live but there are
different reasons. Some people end up homeless because they put most of their savings in
stocks and when the market failed they lost everything. Banks foreclose on some so they are
out in the streets. Many have student loans they have to pay back for the rest of their lives
but they have no jobs. Yet, they foolishly take out another loan to go back to get another
degree to get a better job when they never had one in the first place and the banks give it to
them when the interest rate is so high. It’s not surprising that they are now out in the parks.
One thing leads to another. It is said that, ‘The richest man is the man who spends the least.’
Others bring it on themselves because they live above their means and charge things
by Visa when they can’t pay for it because they have no jobs. Look at cellphones; everyone
has it whether or not they can afford it. Most of these conditions come about as a result of
people living above their means.
Many parents try to give their kids allowance when they don’t work for it. That is
one more example of people living above their means. If kids don’t want what the parents
can afford then they deserve nothing. One computer in each room is how parents isolate
themselves from their children. When there is no communication between parents and their
children the children don’t want to go home so they stay in the streets and their friends
encourage it. But the basis of stability is in the home. If children respect their parents half
their problems are gone and they don’t have to run away from home to live on the streets.
60. 54
No one should ever encourage children to have problems with their parents. Friends are not
always the best source of advice and will desert you when trouble overcomes you. Real
friends care about you and want you to be ok and connected with your family. Whenever
children leave home and it is not the parent that sends them away there has got to be a
leeway. If children are meeting the responsibility of what their parent request for them then
adjustments can be made. There has to be some mending from that point of view.
I am a volunteer, motivational speaker. I go to the schools and colleges to give talks
to sport teams. I explain to them, these are the benefits that are in your favor. It gives a little
relief here and relief there. I encourage them to find their parents wherever they are. I may
say to them, find her wherever she is because she is the best.”
A 50-year-old Electrical Engineer, Tyngsboro Massachusetts said:
“ They may have lost their jobs. It could be due to physical health issues, mental
issues and not wanting to stay home. It depends on what makes them homeless.
Find the root cause of what drives people into homelessness. Benefits should be based on
whether their homelessness was due to devastation or whether they just don’t want to work
and prefer to live off someone else. ”
A 58-year-old Nursing Manager of a dialysis unit, Irvington, New Jersey said:
“Believe you me, a whole heap of people homeless for different reasons.
In this day and age the shelters are full. A lot are in those hotels and many have no place to
stay. Some lose their jobs while others lost their homes and are staying with relatives. Some
61. 55
people have no family while some have mental conditions that make them feel threatened.
Others run away from family but they don’t have to be in that situation.
Those who were working and lost their jobs are the ones we should help.
The other day I was watching this woman on the Oprah show. She had just come back from
Iraq and was homeless yet she didn’t look unkempt. Some people are homeless but they
never had any home to begin with and they believe the government owes them something.
Then you have others who are nasty and lazy and are not coming out of the system. Those
tend to be very defensive. You can help them but they are not going anywhere. The more
you give and the more you help that set is the more you have to put out because they are not
coming out of the system. No matter how much you give them it will always be the same.
They save nothing and wear the best that we working people can’t afford. Something should
be done about those homeless people that abuse the system. Reward people by merit, we
can’t keep them on it forever. There should be a maximum limit and no more. The
government should not penalize those who try to work.”
51-year-old International banker, from Queens, New York, said:
“No matter how much free money people collect it doesn’t seem to make a
difference in their homeless status – they still homeless and forever will be that way. I don’t
think it can end. For instance, look at the hunger situation in Africa. With all the money that
these different groups collect you’d think they should at least be able to stop hunger but you
still see starving and malnourished people on TV. When it comes to homeless benefits they
should make it mandatory that they do something. The homeless have everything and can’t
pay their bills. It’s amazing what lazy people will take to live for free. It’s a shame that
62. 56
Veterans don’t have the luxury of the homeless. The older folks who need health assistance
are struggling. American leadership needs to take a page out of England’s book.”
A 69-year-old retired banker, landlord, Westbury, New York, said:
“My view is one should not use too broad a brush to paint the homeless. Lots of
people find themselves homeless because of circumstances. Some people lose their jobs but
you don’t know it because they are embarrassed so they dress up and go out everyday so it’s
hard to notice. The system encourages homelessness by supporting mothers on welfare.
Most people who find themselves in this situation want a better life but their circumstance
trap them. They get paid for not working. It’s better to encourage them to get jobs and
change their lives. The system should devise a way of training them to move from
homelessness into self-reliance.
Part of homelessness is about who owns these large apartments that are rented to the
homeless via large scale government subsidies. It’s similar to the reasons they build prisons.
Prisons are like franchises and the stocks are sold on Wall Street. Politicians decide which
county the prisons are built in. The little people go to prison. Pause for a while and look at
the bigger picture. I guarantee you that there is a hidden hand out there that unless you look
carefully you will not see it.
Let’s go back to the welfare system. Look at where Welfare recipients spend their
money. Look at who owns these businesses, liquor stores, and supermarkets. The rich and
mighty say cut out food stamps and welfare but most of these companies get millions of
dollars in tax breaks, much more than the jobs they create. Read this article: Tom Russert
and the homeless cycle. Of those in poverty, 99% are scrounging to get by and they move
63. 57
from place to place having children so that perpetuates it. There is no family circle if they
can’t form that unit.
A smaller group of homeless individuals abuse the system and as a result they cycle
in and out of various programs that serve the homeless. It’s a complicated issue. It’s the
system that’s broken but they are not fixing it because someone is benefiting from it. If they
wanted to they could bring back the reform system and send away delinquent youths. Until
they fix the system, it’s going to go from bad to worse. When once they get caught in the
system it becomes chronic. Other complications to homelessness are too many layers of
government and they are not speaking with one voice. There should be a reciprocal system
of issuing benefits. If someone is always providing for you it lessens your incentive to do
things for yourself. It’s other peoples tax dollars that’s taking care of them so they don’t
care. Government should have a system in place that 15-18 year olds do at least three years
in the military so they learn some discipline, like in Taiwan and Thailand. Over there, it’s a
part of their education. America should bring back the draft – so young people are
conditioned how to behave and act as responsible individuals. Government needs to stop
paying them money for sitting home and doing nothing. Look at those people in the parks
marching while you and I have to pay taxes to support them.”
12-year-old 7th
Grader at Innovation Academy Charter School, Tyngsboro,
Massachusetts, said:
“People are homeless because they are poor and have no jobs and no place to live.
They have to have all these kids so they can get money for food. If they don’t have the kids
they won’t get any money. No one wants to see hungry kids on the street. Do you?”
64. 58
A 82-year-old retired emergency room nurse, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida said:
“Some people are homeless as a result of carelessness. Others just don’t care,
especially those already in the system. They have the attitude of “It out there for everybody,
and I want it too.” I see a woman caring for her two granddaughters. One of them gets
pregnant and the boyfriend offer to marry her but the grandmother tells her, “Don’t do that.
Make the government take care of the three of you.” This is how some people get to be
homeless. They don’t realize that the government don’t have money unless we the taxpayer
contribute with our taxes. The government is at fault for providing all these freebies. It
encourages laziness and people get into trouble and become homeless because they never
learned independence in the first place. The system encourages homelessness and a
dependency on welfare benefits. I know this woman. She is on Welfare and her daughter is
on welfare. The daughter is pregnant and not working. The odds are that the child will grow
up and go on welfare too.
A 64-year-old Lab Technician, Westbury, New York, said:
“It’s the economic times in which we live. It is brutal. We are living it right now and
people are losing their homes. Then there are others who never had anything. They are
always going to be around. It is a frustrating cycle. There are the two sides so it depends on
the side from which you are writing it. It’s the lifecycle that people live.”
50-year-old Board of Education employee, Brooklyn, New York said:
“I am very sympathetic because I have been homeless myself - when I was fifteen years
65. 59
old. We could not afford the rent and we lived in the city. In metropolitan cities we have
more minorities. Now we have a lot of homeless families and little children in the streets.
This country wastes a lot of money in the meantime people are suffering. Government
should consider giving subsidies to landlords to offer lower rent to tenants.”
78-year-old retired Special Education teacher, Queens, New York said:
“Some people are homeless because they relocate and end up having nothing. People
can’t afford to live the way they would like to. Everybody is different and some people don’t
know better. Some people are homeless because of drug use. They use so much and can’t
pay for it. Alcoholics are not thinking stable so they do things that result in them having no
home. Some people really have no jobs and are not on disability or social security. Most of
the homeless young people are that way because they have not learned to deal with
hardships. They are rude and disrespectful to their parents, so they get put out. Somebody
has to take care of the children so they come under the educational system. But families are
supposed to stick together. Children are not supposed to be rude to their parents. When
children respect their parents that’s where the blessings come in because they will always
have their help and support when they need it the most.”
66. 60
Appendix B: Survey Questions
Question 1. What can schools do to help the homeless?
Showing 44 text responses
No responses selected
A good trade
4/28/2012 1:25 AM View Responses
Prepare children for what lies ahead if they don't graduate. Teach self-reliance not
dependency.
4/28/2012 1:04 AM View Responses
Food drives, teach homelessness awareness, prepare younger generation to help
4/28/2012 12:41 AM View Responses
Create breakfast programs. Create more education around
4/28/2012 12:26 AM View Responses
Get more involved with student's stability. Most of the time they just focus on the
educational piece
4/28/2012 12:11 AM View Responses
Teach!!!
4/28/2012 12:00 AM View Responses
Have higher standards of learning
4/27/2012 11:53 PM View Responses
Make sure children are eating at school
4/27/2012 11:48 PM View Responses
Maybe have program available for homeless to better themselves
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4/27/2012 9:21 PM View Responses
Support groups
4/27/2012 8:46 PM View Responses
Participate in programs to help homeless families: discount lunches, transportation
4/27/2012 8:24 PM View Responses
Provide education and support so that homeless students will not miss their schooling
4/27/2012 8:14 PM View Responses
Provide meals and transportation. Make sure children's homeless status is kept confidential.
4/27/2012 8:06 PM View Responses
Provide educational programs
4/27/2012 7:20 PM View Responses
Make sure that none of their students are suffering from being homeless and help them with
services and computers to find jobs
4/26/2012 8:45 PM View Responses
Offer day programs: so instead of being idle in the day they could be engaged in some sort
of structured activity
4/26/2012 7:56 PM View Responses
Hold charity drives, food drives but most importantly educate that homeless people are
people too
4/26/2012 1:09 PM View Responses
Educate the students about this issue. Encourage them to participate in volunteering to
assist.
68. 62
4/26/2012 12:33 AM View Responses
Inform student of how people can get to that situation
4/25/2012 11:06 PM View Responses
Donate canned goods
4/25/2012 5:56 PM View Responses
Food drives
4/25/2012 5:08 PM View Responses
Require community service in schools. Start a food drive or a food bank. Have clothing
drives. Educate students about the homeless.
4/25/2012 4:16 PM View Responses
Make donations
4/25/2012 3:27 PM View Responses
Leave food and clothing drop offs in their main offices, and/or hold yearly collection drives
4/25/2012 9:01 AM View Responses
Schools can donate, food and money in the form of fundraising.
4/25/2012 8:00 AM View Responses
Support the students adjust the best they can
4/24/2012 2:46 PM View Responses
Schools can provide the necessary educational attainment programs to help make these
homeless important citizens in the future. If the schools have the resources to assist people
in need with the exception of providing knowledge, than they should help.
4/24/2012 2:59 AM View Responses
69. 63
Educate them to be better people
4/23/2012 7:42 PM View Responses
Teach self-sufficiency, like how to cook with cheap things, or how to shop for things that
wont fall apart on you/aren’t worth your money.
4/23/2012 4:44 PM View Responses
Offer financial courses to help the homeless with better financial planning skills.
4/23/2012 4:06 PM View Responses
Educate people to help them understand how and why homelessness happens.
4/23/2012 3:33 PM View Responses
Bring awareness to the students about the issue. Recruit families of student mentoring
homeless people on they way out of homelessness by helping them find housing, jobs etc.
4/23/2012 2:03 PM View Responses
Education
4/23/2012 1:57 PM View Responses
Try to keep kids in school & reach out to those kids who are homeless
4/23/2012 1:52 PM View Responses
Provide children with stability, extra help, free meals, and reach out to the parents with
resources and support
4/23/2012 11:32 AM View Responses
Set up donation funds to help like clothes, food, and other resources to assist.
4/23/2012 10:21 AM View Responses
Provide food for the children.
70. 64
4/23/2012 10:15 AM View Responses
Hold drives for food and money
4/23/2012 6:50 AM View Responses
Teach them how to be responsible
4/22/2012 9:09 PM View Responses
Provide volunteer services for example providing meals etc.
4/22/2012 6:40 PM View Responses
Provide a safe non-judgmental atmosphere.
4/22/2012 4:56 PM View Responses
Get them a career not just a job
4/22/2012 4:10 PM View Responses
Providing financial education-life skills to students should be part of the curriculum so the
cycle of poverty can possibly be helped thru financial education.
4/22/2012 4:00 PM View Responses
Educate students on causes of homelessness
4/22/2012 2:32 PM View Responses
Question 2. What can churches do to help the homeless?
Showing 44 text responses
No responses selected
Prayer/shelter
4/28/2012 1:25 AM View Responses
Fundraise, provide emergency shelter, have congregants open up their homes.
71. 65
4/28/2012 1:04 AM View Responses
Provide temporary shelter, ask people to help with anything
4/28/2012 12:41 AM View Responses
Counsel and offer hope
4/28/2012 12:26 AM View Responses
Offer housing advocacy to the Churchgoer
4/28/2012 12:11 AM View Responses
Offer clothing, Toys, safe short-term sleeping spaces
4/28/2012 12:00 AM View Responses
Feed and inform, preventative measures
4/27/2012 11:53 PM View Responses
Collect funds and help with food and clothing
4/27/2012 11:48 PM View Responses
Donation
4/27/2012 9:21 PM View Responses
Food collection, help with rent when they get out of homelessness
4/27/2012 8:46 PM View Responses
Collect donations (food, clothing) fundraisers
4/27/2012 8:24 PM View Responses
Provide spiritual and financial support
4/27/2012 8:14 PM View Responses
Offer spiritual guidance
72. 66
4/27/2012 8:06 PM View Responses
Provide guidance and counseling
4/27/2012 7:20 PM View Responses
Provide meals and counsel/guidance to help find employment
4/26/2012 8:45 PM View Responses
Think of developing decent shelters with programs that would help to support the transition
into and out of homelessness
4/26/2012 7:56 PM View Responses
Hold charity drives and attempt to provide work
4/26/2012 1:09 PM View Responses
Although some already do this, but they can take a special collection in order to help
homeless shelters
4/26/2012 12:33 AM View Responses
Provide counsel and share what they can
4/25/2012 11:06 PM View Responses
Assist with groceries, offer places to stay for families with children, help with jobs
4/25/2012 5:56 PM View Responses
Weekly food drives
4/25/2012 5:08 PM View Responses
Similar to schools, Donating items, volunteering time and spreading awareness
4/25/2012 4:16 PM View Responses
Make Donations
73. 67
4/25/2012 3:27 PM View Responses
Churches, to my experience, have assisted homeless families efficiently. They often have
their own food pantries, and several resources to refer families who need help to. They are
also able to help spiritually, and occasionally financially. The parish members are also
usually very supportive of other worshipers who need assistance
4/25/2012 9:01 AM View Responses
Again donate money and provide shelter for the homeless.
4/25/2012 8:00 AM View Responses
Provide emergency food, clothing, and local resources to their communities
4/24/2012 2:46 PM View Responses
The churches can provide spiritual healing and prayers. The churches can also relate the
cases to their congregation and see who has the ability or who is willing to help the
homeless.
4/24/2012 2:59 AM View Responses
Show them how to recover from their past
4/23/2012 7:42 PM View Responses
Give stability, a place to learn about themselves and a sanctuary where they wont be judged
4/23/2012 4:44 PM View Responses
Open up a weekly or daily soup kitchen, and offer shelter one of two nights of the week.
4/23/2012 4:06 PM View Responses
Bring their saving grace to the homeless shelters.
4/23/2012 3:33 PM View Responses
74. 68
Same as the above + provide shelter
4/23/2012 2:03 PM View Responses
Education
4/23/2012 1:57 PM View Responses
Offer help
4/23/2012 1:52 PM View Responses
Have food drives, clothing drives; attempt to help with living arrangements, Provide
emotional/community support to the family
4/23/2012 11:32 AM View Responses
Influence the community to help out, and provide resources for the homeless to get help
with housing
4/23/2012 10:21 AM View Responses
I think they help lots. They are just financially strapped.
4/23/2012 10:15 AM View Responses
Collaborate to provide shelter and food like Family
Promisehttp://www.familypromisegrc.org/Family_Promise_GRC/Home.html
4/23/2012 6:50 AM View Responses
Build a relationship
4/22/2012 9:09 PM View Responses
Raise money to help with high shelter costs.
4/22/2012 6:40 PM View Responses
Partner with Real estate agents to help find affordable housing.
