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Comment by Gerry Ashley on May 31, 2008 at 2:02pm

If we could clone a few hundred million Saras, we'd have a relatively simple solution to the problem. However, that not being a likely event, we must all learn to look beyond the implied "stain" of the word "homeless" and see these as people once again. We also need to discover and accept a few facts:
1.There are NUMEROUS homeless shelters in each community. SUPPORT THEM. And I don't mean just on Thanksgiving when you're trying to make yourself feel good about yourself the embarrassment of riches your hard work has provided. You need not apologize for being successful. But no matter HOW successful you are, there's always time to help with shelters whether its through donating your time or perhaps food or clothing. Trust me on this. It will feel JUST as good doing this on June 1st as it does on Thanksgiving day.

2.) In some locations, there is still RIDICULOUS legislation making it ILLEGAL for restaurants to donate prepared - but unused - foods to homeless shelters. By that I mean Buffets, Restaurants that pre-cook food in bulk, etc. The reason (supposedly) is to prevent the restaurants from being sued if someone chokes on a chicken bone from a free chicken dinner. Don't laugh. In today's society that's a sure thing. But SOME places have now drafted documents that absolves the restaurants of any such litigation, freeing them up to donate tons of food to shelters that could desperately use it. Your assignment: find out what the deal is in YOUR location and MAKE IT WORK. It doesn't take a lot of effort to be a hero.

3.) It used to be the stereotype homeless person was a drug addict, an alcoholic or simply a person who just didn't make any effort. We know that's not always the case, however. But nowadays, more and more people who used to be gainfully employed and part of the American dream are living paycheck to paycheck because of the economy. One layoff or serious illness and they quickly fall through the cracks. I've been there myself. If it weren't for a dear friend who was there for me when I was victimized, I'd have been homeless with a dog. How great a country can we truly call ourselves when so many "regular Joes and Joans" are falling through the cracks each and every day? Don't sit idly by. Find out what your community has in the way of support services. Doesn't have enough? START a program. Remember this nation was created by "We The People" and we've allowed elected officials to take that away us. Work with them as best you can but be fully prepared to do this on your own without government help. Start a program and make it viable and your government will come to you with support, especially during election time. Not an election year? Get to know your reps PERSONALLY and NURTURE that relationship. They won't be able to turn you down without knowing it will bite them in the BUTT the next time they are up for re-election. If they aren't willing to support your community, BITE THEM IN THE BUTT come election time.

4.) Learn the effective way to BITE POLITICIANS IN THE BUTT. Then DO IT. It's called find someone else who WILL support you and elect them to replace the self-serving incumbents. Remember: They don't OWN the office. They just WORK THERE. And WE. THE PEOPLE, are their boss. Lobbyists may pay them more money than we do, but they don't vote. WE DO.