It’s been all over the news, homeless encampments throughout the city. I see the tents as I go by in a taxi or on the bus. There’s always been a sort of distance between them and me. Until recently. I went with a friend of mine to one of the homeless encampments to help sort clothing donations and that distance I was so comfortable with was gone. The homeless crisis was right there, in my face.
There is a stigma surrounding the homeless, they’re lazy, they’re all drunks and addicts, they’d rather be on the street than use the available resources. From spending just one day with them, I found it not to be true. Yes, some struggle with addiction and mental illness but anyone living from paycheck to paycheck is vulnerable. They could be just one bad paycheck or one financial emergency away from being homeless. It wouldn’t take much. Some don’t feel as though they deserve any support, being unhoused can make a person feel worthless.
I wish I could say I’m surprised at how many of them have steady jobs, they just can’t afford a suitable place to live. Rental rates are out of control in the city. I’ve seen some of the more “affordable” apartments and they are veritable dives. Even so, a person making minimum wage can ill afford one, and food, and transportation, and any other necessities.
I feel empathy towards the unhoused persons, there was a period of time I was homeless myself. Living out of bags containing all your worldly possessions is not my idea of a good time. I feel angry that more isn’t being done by all levels of government to house the homeless, especially during the winter months. I feel sad that these people are in such dire straits. And I feel grateful every single day that I have roof over my head and food on my table.
Want to help the homeless but don’t know how? Consider buying an insulated tarp for their tent, it can make a big difference in keeping the heat in during the winter months. Some civic minded folks have started Facebook groups to organize hot meals, laundry, donations and other necessities. Consider joining one or creating your own group to support the homeless.
My Phoenix Rising 