Reply #97: Perhaps I read it differently [View All]

I saw the OP as pointing out that Habitat is only for those with children and that they don't address the needs of the homeless. Which I agree with, but I also agree with the fact that that's due to the type of charity they are. I missed the fact that they don't care if "single homeless people die in the streets" part. I agree that we can't blame HH for that, and I think that HH does fine with the work they do. However, since I've not lost any friends to death by homelessness recently, I don't think I can relate to the level of despair that the OP is actually feeling. As such, I'll not be throwing stones, but rather attempting to expand the conversation.

I strongly believe that housing is a basic human right and not something that should be left up to charities to provide. If I have any argument here it's that we should be slapping our legislators upside their heads with that message, rather than assuming it's a charity's responsibility.

When you speak of agencies do you mean governmental? Whose great plan it is to build more shelters and hide all the homeless, not provide them with permanent housing option's. Or do you mean such as the National Coalition for the Homeless? The NCH is greatly involved in all facets in homelessness reform but they aren't really making any headway. I blame their ineffectiveness on apathy from Americans. Beyond that it begins to breakdown and it's up to the states and communities, or not, as they see fit. Most don't deal with providing permanent housing, however, not if you're devoid of children. On that fact the OP is correct.

I'm sure I've said much more than you were interested in reading by this point. I apologize for going on so, I just feel for those who have fallen and feel they keep getting slapped by the hands that should be helping them back up.