The newspaper stated that a man was found murdered in the D. The victim was a homeless person and his plight all too familiar to American society. He is the one who we see begging for money as we walk the streets, has few possessions, perhaps living out of a grocery cart, and certainly no home. What are we to do with this issue of our society? When the temperature drops below freezing, we need to do more than "feel sorry" for those living outdoors. We see them trying to find shelter in harsh conditions yet we do nothing. However, a free handout is not the answer. A chance to contribute to society while giving them back their dignity is.
To battle the increasing population of the homeless, government funded shelters should be constructed. These shelters will not have a revolving door policy. This project is dedicated to helping people in the long term. Those entering these shelters must be willing to try to turn their lives around for the better. Should anyone come to the shelter sick, intoxicated, or on drugs, they will be medically assisted. If intoxicated or on drugs, they will be required to seek treatment and rehabilitation. Counseling and job training are a necessary part of this program. If President Bush's legislation is approved, faith-based organizations will be allowed to serve in conjunction with the shelter. If these guidelines are not followed, individuals will not be allowed access to the shelter. It must be understood that this project is not just a shelter, but a chance for those who are homeless to enter back into society as productive people with dignity. .
Any new undertaking possesses aspects which are good for society as well as aspects which may be questionable. The good this particular project would bring is obvious. The number of people on the streets, homeless and begging for the essentials just to live another day, will be reduced. Those who complete job training could be placed in jobs, serving the community and themselves with dignity.