As previously mentioned, homelessness is widespread and often overlooked in the United States. When people continue to ignore or look away from the issue, they are turning their backs on other human beings who more than likely did not ask to be in their current situation. Making a difference in other people's lives is not always easy or what most people aim to do. Despite this, there are many ways that one can easily add their support to the homeless population.
Contribution comes in many different forms. One model that is simple and easy to remember is to CARE. CARE stands for contribute, advocate, reach out, and educate (National Coalition). Contribution is anything from donating to your local shelter to smiling at a homeless person you see living on the streets. For obvious reasons, smiling at someone may not seem as beneficial as giving handouts, but for some, a smile could make a huge difference. Many people without a shelter are used to being given dirty looks for begging, or are used to just simply being ignored. Acknowledging that they are a human being (in the form of a smile) can completely change the way they are going about their life, just by realizing that people do care about them. Other forms of donation, such as food, clothing, and money, are always appreciated by homeless shelters. Typically, people do not feel comfortable giving out money to someone begging because they believe the money will be spent on drugs or alcohol, so giving something such as food or clothing is always a good option. Secondly, advocating is extremely important. Advocacy doesn’t mean you must march around and tell people to support the homeless, as there are many different options. The National Coalition for the Homeless suggests following local politics, getting involved with a local street newspaper, or being more aware of your language. Becoming more aware of your language is a concept that many have not heard of before. Oftentimes, we hear the homeless being referred to using derogatory terms, such as hobos or bums. These terms are extremely derogatory and just becoming aware of how you speak about the homeless can make a difference and change the way you, as well as others, think. Finally, reaching out and educating refer to volunteering and teaching others what you have learned. Volunteering and directly helping the homeless is one of the best ways to understand the way of life and situations that they have been placed in. It allows you to interact and get a unobstructed view of their lives. Volunteering can be done at shelters, soup kitchens, working with children, and many other possibilities. Helping out the homeless is not a difficult or complicated task. Using any of the CARE methods can make a difference in someone’s life whether it is volunteering or just sharing a smile. As awareness begins to spread for the homeless population, the more help that will become available. Homelessness is never a issue that should be overlooked, and I personally hope that recognition continues to spread.
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AuthorMy name is Alyssa MacDonald, and I am a senior at Dunlap High School. I will be writing about some of my exciting travels that I have been able to experience! Archives
April 2018
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