Now
Fair
18°
High
32°
Low
24°
Full Forecast

Jobs

Cars

Homes

Rentals

Alerts

Subscribe
Home > News > Local
Bookmark Us   •   Make Us Your Homepage

New campaign aims to end panhandling

Comments 60 comment(s)  
E-mail Story E-mail Story
Print Story Print Story
Share  Share
Text Size: 
Tools Sponsor

By MELISSA LEE / Lincoln Journal Star

Tuesday, May 08, 2007 - 11:54:34 pm CDT

A battle of cardboard signs is about to begin on the streets of downtown Lincoln.

Some you’ve seen: “Homeless, need help. God bless.”

Others started popping up Tuesday and already have raised a few eyebrows: “I didn’t need your money, I just needed a change.”

Story Photo
(Courtesy photo)

Related Media

The anti-panhandling campaign begins

UNL senior Todd Ogden begins setting up materials downtown to promote a campaign to end panhandling. (Anthony Roberts / JournalStar.com)...

Comments: 0
Rated:

Take note, charitable Nebraskans: Those new signs are part of a campaign launched by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the Downtown Lincoln Association asking you to re-think the way you give.

The project, dreamed up by a group of UNL advertising students, asks the public to stop giving spare change to the homeless and instead direct money to agencies like the People’s City Mission.

Their argument: A few dollars here and there can’t fix chronic homelessness. Professional agencies — with access to substance abuse and alcohol counseling, job training and more — can.

And their goal: To end panhandling and help the homeless get off the streets.

“(Homelessness) only gets worse when people give money,” said Todd Ogden, a senior advertising and political science major at UNL who’s leading the campaign.

“When you give money (to panhandlers), you don’t know where it’s going to go … We don’t want to discourage people from giving. We just want people to know giving money to agencies is the better option.”

Ogden will spend the week distributing promotional posters and brochures throughout downtown. He’ll also set up “shadow people” — life-size, faceless human silhouettes holding the new cardboard signs.

The cutouts are meant to represent former panhandlers who got back on track thanks to donations to charitable agencies, he said.

Ogden had a bit of a disappointing start Tuesday: Hours after he set up the first “shadow person” near Douglas Theatre Co. at 201 N. 13th St., it vanished, presumably stolen by angry or mischievous passers-by.

The remaining five shadow figures, Ogden said, will be strapped to benches, making such theft more difficult.

“Hopefully, whoever took it is setting it up somewhere else,” he said good-naturedly.

Panhandling has been a consistent problem downtown and worsens in the summer as warm weather draws people outside, said Susanne Blue, executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach.

Campus, too, is especially vulnerable, as young students generally show more compassion toward the homeless, Blue said.

Lincoln has some 1,600 homeless people, she said, about 50 of whom are chronically homeless, meaning they’ve had no permanent address for a year or more.

Those 50, Blue said, are particularly vulnerable.

Many suffer from mental illness, drug addiction or alcohol abuse. Many have little or no family or support system to lean on.

“These are the ones who have really fallen through the cracks.”

Pocket change, she said, is not what they need.

“A little bit of change here or there isn’t really doing anything to help the individual make changes,” she said. “It’s just a very temporary fix or a Band-Aid, if you will.

“They need meals, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, shelter ... Sometimes giving them a little bit here, a little bit there, is just keeping them on the street.”

Not everyone agrees.

Blue admits she’s been hit with a bit of skepticism from people wondering whether the project could actually make a difference.

And at least one UNL English professor calls the campaign “horrifying and demeaning” to the homeless, several of whom she counts among her closest friends.

“They were really upset and hurt,” said professor Fran Kaye. “And rightly so.”

Kaye said she’s offended by the “shadow people,” saying they imply the homeless are second-class citizens.

“They’re not shadows. They’re real people,” she said. “It’s like my own family being told they’re not human.

“I just think the whole premise is wrong-headed.”

Ogden says his intent isn’t to offend. Rather, he wants to give hope to homeless people who might not think they can change.

He said he’s talked to many homeless people who “want this to happen more than anybody.”

“These guys, they don’t want this image. A lot of homeless people are trying,” he said. “It’s all about hope. We’re definitely not trying to be disrespectful.”

Kaye isn’t convinced. The university, she said, must work harder to embrace diversity.

And she believes those who don’t stop to spare some change could be missing out on valuable friendships.

“If you give someone a sandwich one time, give them some money one time, have a conversation one time and get to know them, it might change their life,” she said. “And it will sure as hell change yours.”

Reach Melissa Lee at 473-2682 or mlee@journalstar.com.


$1 Sunday Delivery - Subscribe Today!
Local > Back to Top of Story

Post Your Comment

Standards and Rules
All posts to JournalStar.com are subject to our Terms and Standards.
Your posted comment will appear after it has been approved.
Frequently asked questions about story commenting.
(optional)
   
Hide Comments Hide Comments   Newest First Newest First  
dee wrote on May 9, 2007 12:35 am:
" funny this story didnt mention the professional pan handlers who are not homeless but just making a living asking for money "

 Ian wrote on May 9, 2007 12:47 am:
" I would give money more often to the homeless people downtown if they would stop being jerks and yelling things at me when I don't have money to give them. Because of student loans, I owe more money than they don't have. "

 Dianne wrote on May 9, 2007 12:56 am:
" If you want people to give the change they would have given to the people on the street to programs for the homeless instead, are opportunities easily available downtown to do so? Collection containers or some other method? If you want to change the behaviors of the donators you'll need to make it easy to do the alternative donation. "

 adam wrote on May 9, 2007 2:40 am:
" I think the student are very right to do this. I worked downtown. There have been times I have been asked a dozen times a day for change, or cigarettes. A man even frequently hold up a sign that says "won't lie, need beer" the gross of homeless is cluttering the streets. Many need treatment. I overheard two one day sitting on the bench that he recieved 35 dollars in change and dollars. Thats a full days work minimum wage. there is nothing wrong for asking people for change. but to make it a job or sub-level of employment is wrong. the frequent panhandlers are a nuicense and is using this as a means of income and loitering the streets. I ask someone who disagrees to go downtown on a weekend night and see what goes on. rendering our generosity into donating to shelters and what not would give the homeless more of an intention to get proper shelter and food. "

 whatever wrote on May 9, 2007 6:50 am:
" So, what is the purpose of the Peoples City Mission? Why should I feel compelled to give change to panhandlers? And more importantly, why must a person put up with panhandlers? Shouldn't a lot of these folks be institutionalized? The more we provide for these people the more that will show up in Lincoln. Compassion and giving are wonderful things, but it truly only works when dealing with motivated individuals who want to improve their lot in life and are given opportunities to do so. "

 Concerned wrote on May 9, 2007 6:54 am:
" I am concerned about the homeless but I sure get tired of being asked for change or a cigarette. Can't we get a law that states they can not panhandle. If we got a law going than maybe they would get some help or move elsewhere. "

 Garson wrote on May 9, 2007 7:00 am:
" "young students generally show more compassion toward the homeless." No. They are just easily influenced and gullible. "

 No Way wrote on May 9, 2007 7:29 am:
" Sorry - these people have no reason to be begging for money. We have the Peoples City Mission, the Matt Talbott Kitchen and many other resources to assist the unfortunate. These people choose to be where they are, and they choose to make a living by begging, not working. Many years ago my mom gave me a nice pair of gloves for Christmas. Several days later I saw a man with duct tape wrapped around his fingers asking for change. I told him I didn't have any money but I gave him my gloves. The next day he was back out there with the duct tape, gloves nowhere in sight. You wouldn't get much free money if you were wearing nice gloves, apparently. They are playing you for a sucker, folks. Don't give them money. It just encourages more people to beg. "

 mike wrote on May 9, 2007 7:37 am:
" ive seen the will work for food and they will not work we tryed to hire one and he said no thanks he just wanted the cash "

 Chad wrote on May 9, 2007 7:40 am:
" Sorry but I won't give a dime to these people ... I work right next to an area where I see atleast 10 totally different random homesless people a day and every day I see them go to straight to the liqour store right after they get money from some sap that thought they were going to buy food. Constantly fighting, stumbling drunk into busy streets, and vandalizing local businesses. "

 argh wrote on May 9, 2007 7:46 am:
" I, for one, will give my change and dollar bills freely to any homeless person I choose to give them to. The notion that some paternalistic overseers should funnel my funds only to individuals who exhibit their definition of proper middle class behavior is repugnant. And, please, proper care in Nebraska? Just yesterday we learned that the Beatrice home run by Health and human services is STILL not up to federal standards of care, and is understaffed and underfunded. And, woe to any of these homeless folks if they happen to be gay, because that makes you persona non grata in the eyes of HHS. I wouldn't wish getting placed in the stream of the state "care" system in Nebraska on my worst enemy, much less a homeless person. They can take my money and buy food, wine, cigarettes, or anything else they choose. I'd drink too if I were in their shoes. "

 To concerned wrote on May 9, 2007 8:04 am:
" If you want to make a law against it, then you can just pay for the extra police force it will take to enforce that law. Which would you rather do, give to the mission or even help serve the meal, or pay more in taxes for the police to ticket them? "

 several ideas... wrote on May 9, 2007 8:04 am:
" Take old parking meters and attach them to the poles already in place. Pain them a distinguishing color and launch an ad campaign stating that change placed in the speical meters will go to the Peoples City Mission, Matt Talbot etc... The existing infastructure is there (i.e. poles for parking meters) and there has to be a surplus of old meters. This would allow placement of secure containers in the parts of downtown that have the most problem. "

 M Watson wrote on May 9, 2007 8:20 am:
" Giving to non-profits is important, but direct aid to people who are immediately hungry or homeless is quite simply a moral imperative. Walking past a poor or desperate person show depraved indifference. I have lived in other cities that have tried similar approaches to hiding poverty and homelessness from the offended eyes of the affluent. It does nothing to solve the problem, which cannot be left to private nonprofits. This will take a commitment by everyone in society, that is, redistribution of wealth and/or higher taxes. And folks, you get the society you pay for. "

 Tom wrote on May 9, 2007 8:28 am:
" The worst is the guy with the ultraannoying drum. Never give him a dime he beat my friend with one of his spoons "

 Julie wrote on May 9, 2007 8:42 am:
" For those of who HAVEN'T seen it, perhaps you should watch the documentary called Homeless in Paradise. It is an eye-opening look at homelessness in a place that has it way worse than we here in Lincoln. This is made from the standpoint of the homeless, not the people who want to try and help them. Homelessness is a way of life for some and take that away and you have very dysfunctional people. Not all the homeless out there are white male alcoholics, but rather there are people out there who, by some twist of fate, found themselve on the street and adapted to that life. In a perfect world, these people would live in nice little homes with the white picket fence and green grass...but alass...this is not a perfect world. What works for some, does not work for all. Many times the homeless are mentally ill and the system has failed for them. This does not mean they are bad people. Yes, homeless people can be an eyesore in the eyes of those who want that perfect world. But in the bigger scheme of things, they choose the life they have and many will gravitate back to that life no matter what intervention takes place. It is unfortunate, but a fact of life. Yes, help out the mission, and provide for their well-being, but remember that not all of them WANT help getting off the streets. Compassion and understanding can go a long way. "

 easy wrote on May 9, 2007 8:51 am:
" In my opinion, its a lot easier to give some spare change to a homeless person as I'm walking by than to drive down to the city mission and donate some money. So what if the homeless person goes out and buys alcohol and cigarettes. We're free to spend the money that we have whichever way we want to. Why can't the homeless do the same? "

 Charity wrote on May 9, 2007 9:14 am:
" Why would I give my money to the People's City Mission? The spend more money on beaurcracy and advertising than helping people. "

 dangerour wrote on May 9, 2007 9:18 am:
" Another point I would like to bring up, is the fact that it can be dangerous to stop and help someone. You don't know who they are, or what their intentions might be. I know a law enforcement officer who told me just the other day he was about to contact someone holding a sign asking for money. Right before doing so, a generous woman stopped her minivan, and gave the person a few dollars, then drove away. After contacting the transient, this law enforcement officer checked his background only to learn that he was an unregisterd level 3 sex offender. I want to be clear...I am not implying that every homeless person holding a sign for help is a sex offender. My opinion is simply that donating to the shelter, or other similar programs is safer, and certainly can be more effective in helping those truly trying to improve their lives than arbitrarily handing out a dollar here and there. "

 The Other Julie wrote on May 9, 2007 9:33 am:
" I always want to give them an application for a job.. McD's is usually hiring....and they are right across the street from them. I wonder if they have a lisence to panhandle. If you have a camper with food to sell out of it you have to so why not these people. "

 Jason wrote on May 9, 2007 9:34 am:
" your friend was probably drunk and messing with him. I see it all the time. Also about young kids being more generous, when I was in college I FOUND $20 and went and bought food for me and my buddy instead of giving any to some bum. They have ways out they just choose not to take them. "

 A FORMER "SHADOW" PERSON...... wrote on May 9, 2007 9:46 am:
" I feel that Mr. Ogden needs to get a reality check. Has he EVER stayed at the Mission? I was in a position through November, December and January that I had to stay at the Lincoln City Mission. Just where does all this money donated go??? Certainly NOT to the men tat are staying there. There are NO "programs" available there for one to sing up for to try and get back on your feet. This is seemingly left to ones own devices. Try and ask for a bus pass???? You're told to go donate plasma, which you can't unless you have a local address, and get the five dollars for one. as for a job....forget it. Unless you call "donating" time at the mission a job. True there are some men (and women) that are on the streets because they choose to be. And true there are some that do, in fact, need to be in an institution or in jail. But there are those, like myself, that need a little bit of help getting back on ones own two feet. Yes I managed to do it, with little help from the mission. Other than a meal and a place to sleep they did little else. Mr. Ogden. I would certainly like to know where you found your statistics. Because they must have come from the people that actually RUN the mission. Those folks will paint you a picture of Shangri-la and send you on your way. When you SHOULD be talking to those that are "flying the sign" and those men that are out there busting their butts trying to get out. Or come and talk to me. I'll be happy to tell you exactly what goes on. The Lincoln City Mission is so worried about how they look on the news that you NEVER see a news crew come into the mens side during the Holidays. But you will see the "Family side". Perhaps that is what people expect to see. But as for help getting back on MY feet???? I received meals....yes.....a place to sleep.....Yes. The only other thing the Mission readily gave to me was a haircut. And I had to literally BEG to get that. At least you don't have to do that at Matt Talbot. Thanks Sarah. If people want to give money I would STRONGLY suggest that they give it to Matt Talbot. Maybe they could even restart Daywatch again. But give money to the Mission??? Not me. I'll give my change to that guy flying the sign. Do I care what he does with it???? No. He's a big boy and can make his own decisions. But when you see the same person day in and day out....then perhaps you should have second thoughts about giving money to him. Let's face it....some of them are only doing it for booze or drugs. But ther ARE a select few that REALLY put the money to good use. Trsut me....I HAVE seen it. I would like to see Mr. Ogdens contact information someplace so that I could talk to him. Nothing mean or bad. But I really feel that he needs a slight reality check. "

 Lindsay wrote on May 9, 2007 9:57 am:
" Oh jeez, I think I've been asked every way possible by every type of person for money. I had a guy once dressed in designer clothing try to panhandle money off of me so he could go get breakfast at McD's. Whoever mentioned it already is right, some people just like the lifestyle, and they choose to remain homeless. You can only help those that want to be helped. "

 yo wrote on May 9, 2007 10:04 am:
" Ever talk to these guys?, Dennis says he is no different than Jesus Christ, living off the kindness of strangers. Point out to Dennis you'll hand him some change when he raises the dead, makes the blind see or dies for every one's salvation. The nice lady at 11th and Cornhusker lives under a near by bridge. Her efforts at change are converted directly to alcohol. Bottom line, hand them a can of tuna and see how grateful they are. These are people taking advantage of anyone in the public gullible enough to feel sorry for them. It is against the law to ask for money. It is against the law to panhandle to or from a moving vehicle. It is against the law to advertise from a public right of way. It is not against the law to sit and display a sign. Every handout only contributes to the problem. Study their faces, it's the same folks day in and day out. Your change isn't helping them to get on their feet. Your change only allows them the luxury of not working to support their habits. "

 Ryan wrote on May 9, 2007 10:26 am:
" That "annoying guy with the drum" is deaf. He probably hit your friend because they were pestering him drunkenly. And he's an extremely nice guy if you'd stop to get to know him. "

 KB wrote on May 9, 2007 10:29 am:
" I think these people with all the answers have to use their noggins' as to whether to give to the homeless or not. Having worked in a mission in a big city with the homeless, I don't think you can cut them off completely. There are all kinds and reasons they are homeless. First of all, I'd hate to be homeless in Lincoln, and second while the article isn't all bad, Lincoln has an attitude of, everybody MUST march to our tune. I've got it in my family, we weren't raise like that, but if you live in Lincoln that enviorment grows on you or else, even my neighbor told me when I moved back to Lincoln, "IF YOU LIVE LIKE WE DO, THEN YOU'LL BE ALRIGHT." I was shocked to say the least. Many of the homeless refuse to go to the mission, where I was, and had for years slept under bridges even in sub-zero weather. Always in the winter, police try to encourage them to go to the missions as well as many church groups, and if they won't go give them blankets, food and clothing. These people are from all walks of life, many with mental problems, lost jobs and see no hope, many have been homeless for so long they don't want to go to the mission and be treated like, you take my orders and do what your told. I was told here whether raining or cold, after their meal its out the door. I know one man at the mission was unhappy here and was going to get on a bus and go back to the state where I moved from. I think you can try to help these people but to put up signs is demeaning and further drives alot of these people from getting help. The big mission I helped at, they were expected to go to church and have Bible study before or after the meal which most did and were very appreciative of it. I have never seen alot of church or Bible study at the mission here. Saving souls is more than just food and a bed. The article seemed a little calloused to me, and probably there are alot of UNL on the downtown streets that need to be put somewhere. I was just told this week end about a father searching for his daughter downtown for a long time and finally found his UNL daughter in a dark alley. Was told its not pretty down there. Also, tell me where these homeless people are suppose to find jobs in this town?? The homeless people at the mission that have jobs can't make enough to afford an apartment!! The article has the cart before the horse, and Lincoln doesn't want to lower their standards to get blue color jobs. If you don't have a college degree in this town your trash and don't know anything. "

 exlincolnite wrote on May 9, 2007 11:16 am:
" As Michael Jordan once said, "If you can say, 'Brother can you spare a dollar?', then you can be trained to say, 'Would you like fries with that?'" "

 Beedle wrote on May 9, 2007 11:17 am:
" I agree with Lindsay. Giving to the City Mission is great, but many of the chronically homeless people won't use the services because it would mean they couldn't drink or do drugs. Sad, but that's how it goes. If a panhandler passes the test of not blocking my path while I'm walking or making catcalls at me, I'll take a cue from my brother and offer to buy them a cup of coffee or sandwich. But no spare change from me. "

 S wrote on May 9, 2007 11:20 am:
" There is a law already in Lincoln against panhandling. "

 San Franciscian wrote on May 9, 2007 12:02 pm:
" I work in the Civic Center/Tenderloin in San Francisco and walk past panhandlers, drug addicts and prostitutes every day on my way to the office. You all need to address this problem (and it is a serious quality of life problem) before it gets to large to manage. You only worsen the problem buy giving money. If you want to show compassion adopt a homeless person and make it your financial responsibility to get him or her the help s/he needs. A dollar of a cup of coffee only serves to assauge your guilt. . . There are plenty of opportunities to serve the poor it that is your intent. Church and city programs are crying for volunteers AND money. So, rather than complain or perpetuate this hypocrasy . . . do something. Because the problem with only get worse!!! I walk past people sticking heroin needles in their neck. That your dollars or dimes contributed to. "

 {PK wrote on May 9, 2007 12:31 pm:
" If anybody cares to consult the Bible, it tells you there are homeless and poor and they will alway be with us. And when you feed and care for them, you are doing it as if you were doing it for the Lord. If you don't care for them your as much as slapping the Heavinly Father in the face! "

 Sean1 wrote on May 9, 2007 12:41 pm:
" Okay, so a couple of days ago I'm trying to get to my car for an appointment and I'm accosted by a woman who tells me her car broke down and she needs a ride downtown. When I tell her that's not possible she then tells me she needs a couple of bucks for bus fare to Omaha to see her kids. I tell her "no", but I'll give her a minute before I call the police. I then pull out my cell phone and she disappears. Panhandling downtown, sitting on a corner with a sign is one thing. Working a residential area is another. Fail to do something about it and the homeless will be camping on your front lawn because they have a "right" to. So professor Kaye has numerous individuals among the homeless as her "closest friends". I note that none of them are living with her or wandering the streets in front of her home. "

 DT wrote on May 9, 2007 12:46 pm:
" I feel for the women who have liitle ones....they need to be directed to where they can get help and set up goals to follow thru on to get on track for themselves and their kids! Now as far as these men that stand out there holding these signs.....if they are capable of working---they need to work! I feel that some of these people do what they do as their 'job'! Sad to say but true! It is easier for a man to get on their feet faster than a woman with kids! "

 sdb wrote on May 9, 2007 12:48 pm:
" I've stopped to tell men with signs to apply at Goodwill. They always need help. At the time I worked in the office & no one ever came. Some of these people don't want help & will always be panhandling just to survive. And I'm not talking about the ones with mental illness either. "

 missing the point wrote on May 9, 2007 12:51 pm:
" First, the "shadow people" are not supposed to represent homeless people. The "shadow people" represent people who were homeless but now have their life back on track (i.e. they are no longer on the streets). Second, maybe if more people donated to the mission instead of giving out beer money the mission would be able to fund more programs that help get homeless people back on track in addition to giving them a meal. "

 John line wrote on May 9, 2007 1:16 pm:
" what would you normally spend your money on? i believe this is not the way to handle homelessness. "

 Chris Brandstetter wrote on May 9, 2007 1:29 pm:
" I have given change in the past but have seen most of it go for alchohol. I have gottin tired of funding some peoples alchoholic habits and have stopped giving change all together. I have toyed with the idea of giving out McDonalds $1 gift certificates, but have not. Yesterday we had one come into our buisiness, he was so drunk you could smell it five feet away. I had to escort him off the property. "

 jes wrote on May 9, 2007 1:58 pm:
" I don't think the homeless want help. It's easy enough to go to McDonald's or any other place at fill out an application for a job...but then they'd have to work and answer to a boss. Living homeless has no responsibilities. No boss, no rules. "

 Rae wrote on May 9, 2007 2:16 pm:
" I would lkke to hear PCM's take on this. Are they not a Christian organization? Do they endorse having these life size standups chained to benches -- with signs mocking those who are asking for money? Yes, the article said the standups are really to represent the homeless who got help..........but is that who they really represent? I dont have a problem with trying to make some changes......I agree that long term solutions are always the ideal. But what would Jesus do? Would he think it was OK to chain these standups to benches and put posters in the windows downtown? Whatever we do for the "least of these"-- we do for Jesus Christ. There has to be a balance. I felt the article came across very uncaring and Un-Christ like. You bet there are people who just want the money for booze and drugs. Does the bible say that we help people ONLY IF they meet our standards?? God doesnt call the righteous , but the sinners !! We are all sinners.. and we all need help. I dont mind the concept of how to help the homeless needs to change to long term interventions..........but I take great offense as a Christian in the way this is being presented. Matthew 25 should be our guide. "

 Irritated wrote on May 9, 2007 2:29 pm:
" Okay, so what happens when the Mission is full (which it frequently is - especially during winter months)? Yes, you can get food from the Mission, from Matt Talbot, and a host of other agencies, but if you apply for a job after sleeping outside and not showering for a week, who would hire you? You'd be dirty, smelly, and even if you got the job, it would take time to save up for an apartment so you have a place to rest and get cleaned up. There are certainly opportunities out there, and some people consciously choose panhandling for a lifestyle, but some have very, VERY legitimate difficulties getting a job and getting on their feet. It's just not that simple. There may be hiring laws preventing discrimination again races/ethnicities, gender, etc., but not against a homeless person. If you're all sick of looking at them, would you really want "them" handling your food or serving you your $12 coffee every morning? Many managers would say "no" and hire someone else. At the end of the day, people can break the cycle, get help they may need, and greatly improve their situations, but it takes a LOT of time and energy for something that may or may not happen (getting a job, getting the "good life") versus the easier task of doing what you've always done. "

 Ack!! wrote on May 9, 2007 2:30 pm:
" I cannot believe the level of prejudice and intolernce that has come down in these comments. Just go get a job? How easy do you all think that is? If you have no phone and no permanent address exactly how is this mythical prospective employer supposed to contact you? And how selfish are the people who are concerned about being inconvenienced by the homeless??? I am sure they are sorry that they're sitting within your view as you go off to your job, back to your home and family and generally running your life on your terms, you have it so hard. It seems incredibally arrogant that people seem to think they are so above the homeless to be able to judge them, we all could be in their shoes "There, but for the grace of god, go I" ? Ring a bell?? I am not even asking people to give anything, just try to remember that you don't know anyone's circumstances but your own, and even if they are making choices that you personally would not make does not mean they are right or wrong. "

 Les Miserables wrote on May 9, 2007 2:46 pm:
" After standing all day, dealing with rude, selfish idiots in a small, hot fast food joint. Making millions for the owner of the business while you get so little in return that every penny is spent just to pay for rent and food... Hmm, all of a sudden the street looks kinda good. "

 Shannon wrote on May 9, 2007 5:47 pm:
" If I see someone holding a sign, I usually go into the nearest store, and buy a small "care package", nuts, crackers, maybe a sandwich, and a bottle of water. If they go and trade it for booze or whatever, that is there choice, maybe I am a food for always feeling like they appreciate my efforts, but there thanks always seems sincere, and so are my intentions. "

 Cartmen wrote on May 9, 2007 6:10 pm:
" I can jump over them in my skateboard or sing a song called "California...is good to the homeless" while leading a bus that goes to Malibu. "

 Erin wrote on May 9, 2007 6:43 pm:
" Does Lincoln have any shelters/centers that are not faith-based? I am uncomfortable with the idea of donating to an organization with a religious base, out of concern that they might deny aid to those who don't share their faith, proselytize at them, tell them they're hellbound, etc. People living on the street have enough problems without getting pressured into conversion (or at least faking it long enough for a meal and a shower) by the people who claim to want to help. "

 tcan wrote on May 9, 2007 7:09 pm:
" While the people behind this concept are likely well-meaning individuals, it sounds that they are not very well-acquainted with the perils of homelessness. Lincoln is desperately ineffective at providing even the most basic services to homeless persons, although we do have a wealth of services available for low-income individuals. The People's City Mission does good work at providing shelter, but effects little change. I worked there as a case manager for the 'guests,' and found that most people who arrived had been there many times before and were returning because the root problems leading to their homelessness were not addressed. Being homeless is not the problem in and of itself. Being unable to obtain and continue employment at a LIVING wage is a problem. People at the mission are encouraged to get a job, any job, and end up working at McDonald's. They cannot support their children working at McDonald's. Domestic violence is a problem, but is often overlooked. Alcoholism is a problem, but is also not frequently dealt with, as anyone who drinks is simply tossed out of the shelter and back onto the street. The real problem is that we have a revolving door approach to service that treats individuals as a commodity. I'd prefer to see a solution to that. "

 tcan wrote on May 9, 2007 7:14 pm:
" Erin: I'm sure there are other organizations out there, but you may consider Lincoln Action Program. ( www.lincoln-action.org ) They are a community action agency with dozens upon dozens of outreach services. Services range from very basic things such as providing immediate meals and dental services to such things as computer classes, a comprehensive job training program with a number of slots working for the UNL maintenence team to step-by-step assistance in starting a small business and purchasing a home. "

 Rae wrote on May 9, 2007 8:07 pm:
" Erin- PCM is religious based, but I have known many who are not Christians who have been served there and have gotten their basic needs met. Not saying major transformations happened, but it got them through a rough time. I would suggest donating to Friendship Home if you are wanting a non-religious organization to donate to that deals with shelters. They house a lot of women and children coming out of abusive settings. Great organization with ongoing needs. "

 Bob wrote on May 9, 2007 9:32 pm:
" I'm sure not too many of the homeless have alot of hope left. They may be able to work if they were cleaned up but when hope on the inside is gone, most probably don't care whether another day comes or not. When I was young I could have very easily been homeless. Stayed with a school mates sister and took a dime store job to survive. My home life was not good, always told I'd never amount to anything. As hard as I tried to get a job the state employment told me I'd never get a job, turned a deaf ear. Only by the Grace of God did the Lord surround me with the right people and places, and my life turned around. Only by leaning on God did I ever survive and my how He has Blessed me my whole life. You turn away from God and you altimately find yourself whinning and struggling through life, and as we see, in the gutter. If you give to the Mission, you are giving for the Lord's work, if the Mission chooses to not use the money for its purpose, I'll guarantee the Lord knows your intentions and the Missions intentions. "

 Marc wrote on May 10, 2007 12:10 am:
" Wow! I couldn't let this one go without commenting.After reading all of these comments, I have to say that I'm really surprised at the number of condescending, judgemental people so eager to stereotype and catagorize our homeless. These are human beings. At what point does a person lose enough pride to stand with a sign begging for money? Drug or alcohol addiction a factor? Maybe for some. If I was homeless (and might have been a couple of times in my life if not for family) I would probably be looking for an escape from reality also. Mental illness? Any first year college student knows the corrolation between mental illness (specifically Schizophrenia) and homelessness. Bad luck? Tough breaks? Bad decisions? Regardless, don't we as human beings have to help each other? And isn't this the real issue? How do we help these people? I'm not afraid to admit that I don't know. I know that I feel like I should, that I have an obligation to...but how? I won't give money to them because I'm afraid that if they are homeless because of an alcohol or drug problem I might be contributing to it. I'm not stereotyping here. I wonder how many give to these people simply to avert some internal ethical dilemma, or for the momentary self gratification of feeling like they might have made some type of difference in these peoples lives. I just can't believe that 1$, 5$ or even 100$ would really make any significant or long lasting difference. I have read many "get a job at McDonalds" and "city mission" comments. First of all, as others have posted, REAL EASY getting a job without an address and phone number. Not to mention a mental illness or drug/alcohol addiction. PLUS self-esteem so low that i'm ok holding a cardboard sign begging for change. Plus, is it even possible, really, to pay rent, utilities, phone, groceries etc. at $5 and change an hour? Even at $10 an hour it's tough. So what's the answer? The agencies? If they are helping, why are there so many homeless? If they had more money would there be less homeless? I just don't think so. I think these people need to be treated as individuals. I think that they need to feel like they "matter".They need someone to help them with the root causes of their problems and help them get back on their feet. How this might happen in our society, with our current programs, I don't know....I really wish I did... "

 JJ wrote on May 10, 2007 8:22 am:
" I realize that not every pan handler is a drug addict or alcoholic, but it is hard to trust someone you see with a sign on the street. There used to be an older guy with a sign out by the N 27th Hy-Vee who would ask for money for food and I saw him in Hy-vee several times buying a 6-pack. Something needs to be done to get these people the help they need. "

 hubba bubba wrote on May 10, 2007 9:12 am:
" you can't get a job if you don't have a fixed address. "

 Lacey wrote on May 10, 2007 10:35 am:
" Seriouslu, I have been accosted by homeless fellows while downtown. I had one follow me for almost a block asking for money from the"sexy lady" and another begging me to ask for my cell phone so he can make a call. The first man wouldnt leave me alone until another passerby saw him and got in his face about harrassing me. The second one I told I was going to call the cops so he tried to spit on me and then left me alone. "

 Sean1 wrote on May 10, 2007 12:07 pm:
" What would Jesus do? He said "The poor are always with us". He did'nt say anything about bums. "

 Rae wrote on May 10, 2007 1:17 pm:
" You have some good points. Bottom line is, the needs/demands are so great for counseling etc that there is never enough professional staff to meet everyones needs. In the system, we just put bandaids on things. Give people some shelter and food and tell them we will have an assessment done. Then we do the assessment to determine that they need counseling etc.....but then we dont have enough counselors/case workers to get to the root of the problems.

I saw this when I worked for Region II with the mentally ill. I do prison work, and I see it in the prisons.

So, the concept all sounds good. But where all the professionals who are suppose to be helping these homeless-- and who is gonna foot the bill? Dont tell me HHS- they are way in over their head "


 Deepa wrote on May 10, 2007 2:46 pm:
" I find this story heartbreaking and can only commend Prof Fran Kaye's principled and humane response. The suggested solution(which speaks very poorly of UNL) is a pretty typical conservative knee-jerk reaction I've seen several "tough-love" communities employ, but the"shadow people" concept gives it a uniquely dark and chilling aspect that no one in "the diverse midwest" should be at all proud of. This is hugely dehumanizing response to a terrible human problem the structure of our society is causing, not for the most part individuals. Come to your senses UNL and Lincoln, please. Stop needlessly hurting people who are already getting bad breaks. "

 Professor Kaye wrote on May 10, 2007 8:06 pm:
" OK--in a sense, Sean is right--anyone who is living with us is no longer homeless. But we do have several of our homeless friends stay with us for a night or two, especially when the weather is bad. So please don't impose your conclusions on my life. Thanks! "

 Rae wrote on May 10, 2007 9:13 pm:
" I got immediate email responses from Mr.P at UNL and the President of the Downtown group supporting this campaign. They assure me that they too share my concerns but want to be part of a larger solution-- including safety for the UNL students. /And I dont disagree .... Again, I never had a problem with the campaign. Just the life size shadows. I appreciate these two leaders taking time to respond to my concerns.........especially since their organizations are secular. "

 A Former "Shadow" Person wrote on May 11, 2007 6:07 am:
" Just try and do much of ANYTHING in this town without a fixed address. You can't donate Plasma or do an MDS study. Most places will NOT accept 110 Q (Mission) or 1911 R (Matt Talbot) as a "fixed" address. And as soon as a person mentions that they are staying at the Mission during any interview they are immediately placed on the "Blackball" list. It's very hard in this town to come up with so much a a five dollar bill to get s bus pass. Don't believe me???? Try it some time. "

 victoria wrote on May 15, 2008 8:20 pm:
" I am homeless.

I am not a drunk. I am not a drug addict. I have stayed at the people's city mission and to tell you the honest truth, I felt so much darn safer on the streets.

People inspire fear and hate by thier ignorance and their unwillingness to look at the other person and see why thier life is the way it is. Someone said they want to hand us homeless people a job application instead of money and you know what, that would be great.... but are you going to buy me my work clothes? give me a place to shower? actually give me the job? Because nowadays, people wont hire people with no address and when the option is between food and a shower, I will take the food 10 times out of 10.

There are many kinds of homeless people. I am an educated white young female. And yet, I am homeless. This by far is not a personal choice.... its not like one day I woke up and said, wow... its the middle of January, I think I will go be homeless. God no. And while there are many outreach programs.... are you going to be the one to take me in until a bed opens up? Because it can be months before you can be accepted into anything.

I am homeless. And until you've been where I have been, don't you dare tell me or anybody else that they aren't helping us, because it might not be permamnet help, but at least thier is some type of help being given so we all remember that humanity isn't a dead cold heart. "

Ads by Yahoo!