Compassion for The Homeless

[MACKTEXAS]

Again, I am not talking about the regular people down on their luck. Most of the homeless have mental issues.....not capable of working. Retarded and Schizophrenic and paranoia. Most will not stay in a homeless shelter.....freeze to death with a homeless shelter blocks away.

If the mayor of New York make bus service free they will live on buses.

You are making a distinction in the kind of people who should receive the assistance you favor, but unfortunately, that does not address the point(s) from my post #88. Economics, practicality, and facilities are huge factors in these matters.

I'll hand it to you that "If the mayor of New York makes bus service free they will live on buses." I guess you're assuming that would be good? He might want to check with the cities of Tucson and Portland to see how well that worked out for them. From all I've read, they reported a rise in assaults, drug use, and disruptive behavior, making buses a mobile refuge for undersirables, overhwelming the systems, and deterring regular users.

 

[IrishEyes]

As someone posted a calculation that the world will end in 2060, why don't we all just enjoy our time
we have left, be proud of the fact we earned our living, fought our own battles, tried to pass our knowledge
onto the ones behind us, eat some popcorn and watch the unfolding.
Deaf ears won't hear, the has to be me mentality isn't decreasing, the I want what I want now is the new norm,
and they sure are not going to listen to a group of elderly anyway.

 

[Messy]

You are making a distinction in the kind of people who should receive the assistance you favor, but unfortunately, that does not address the point(s) from my post #88. Economics, practicality, and facilities are huge factors in these matters.

I'll hand it to you that "If the mayor of New York makes bus service free they will live on buses." I guess you're assuming that would be good? He might want to check with the cities of Tucson and Portland to see how well that worked out for them. From all I've read, they reported a rise in assaults, drug use, and disruptive behavior, making buses a mobile refuge for undersirables, overhwelming the systems, and deterring regular users.

We have asylum seekers. They can just drive over the border with Germany. There are loads of criminals who won't get asylum. Nobody wants them. They keep them in one city. The whole city is ruined. Constant stealing. Nobody wants to give 1/3 of their income to give them a neat house, while working 30 year olds can't get a house and have to keep living with their parents. I think that's more comparable with the situation in America.

 

[Grailhunter57]

You are making a distinction in the kind of people who should receive the assistance you favor, but unfortunately, that does not address the point(s) from my post #88. Economics, practicality, and facilities are huge factors in these matters.

I'll hand it to you that "If the mayor of New York makes bus service free they will live on buses." I guess you're assuming that would be good? He might want to check with the cities of Tucson and Portland to see how well that worked out for them. From all I've read, they reported a rise in assaults, drug use, and disruptive behavior, making buses a mobile refuge for undersirables, overhwelming the systems, and deterring regular users.

No I do not think riding buses would be good. I favor? I favor all of them but you have to do the right thing. I you offer help to some one that will accept it, that is a good thing. But a lot of homeless do not want it.

 

[MACKTEXAS]

Nobody wants to give 1/3 of their income to give them a neat house, while working 30 year olds can't get a house and have to keep living with their parents.

Exactly.

 

[Knight]

America, they have loads and loads of homeless people. How on earth can you help all these people?

Good question since where I live the homeless population is as you say "loads of people."

According to the 2024 Point-in-Time Count, conducted on January 25, 2024, the homeless population in Clark County is reported to be 7,906. This figure represents a 20% increase compared to the previous year, which had a count of 6,566 individuals

That point in time count is from 2024 there isn't a recent time in point count. I imagine that count has increased since decreasing never seems to happen.

 

[MACKTEXAS]

"The lack of deeply affordable housing is the primary cause of homelessness. For many, rising costs create an impossible choice between paying for housing and other necessities like healthcare, groceries, or clothing."

From The National Alliance to End Homelessness

 

[That Lady in PA]

working 30 year olds can't get a house and have to keep living with their parents. I think that's more comparable with the situation in America.

Not in my corner of the USA.
I have kids in their 30s. They and their friends of comparable age are married and NOT living with their parents. The majority are homeowners as it is cheaper to own a home than to pay rent.

The USA is huge, and not every state has the same cost of living. Heck, areas WITHIN a state do not have the same cost of living.

 

[IrishEyes]

Not in my corner of the USA.
I have kids in their 30s. They and their friends of comparable age are married and NOT living with their parents. The majority are homeowners as it is cheaper to own a home than to pay rent.

The USA is huge, and not every state has the same cost of living. Heck, areas WITHIN a state do not have the same cost of living.

My grandson in college is talking about staying around the college area when he graduates to see if he can get work there (Upper Virginia bordering Washington D.C.) Dad told him, before you rush into this, you have 2 years, look up what it will cost to live there and see if you
think you need to begin saving up." Grandson did some checking called dad "OMG Dad! a small studio apartment is $1,900 a month!"
Bingo!

 

[Messy]

Good question since where I live the homeless population is as you say "loads of people."

According to the 2024 Point-in-Time Count, conducted on January 25, 2024, the homeless population in Clark County is reported to be 7,906. This figure represents a 20% increase compared to the previous year, which had a count of 6,566 individuals

That point in time count is from 2024 there isn't a recent time in point count. I imagine that count has increased since decreasing never seems to happen.

Gelderland Zuid: 1040 km2, 584.000 residents, 1357 homeless, but 1/3 sleeps with family or friends, 1/5 in a vacation home or car, 19 percent in homeless shelters and 8 percent = 108 people sleep on the street.

Clark County: 20,955 km² 2024 approximately 2.4 million residents
7,906 homeless

 

[That Lady in PA]

My grandson in college is talking about staying around the college area when he graduates to see if he can get work there (Upper Virginia bordering Washington D.C.) Dad told him, before you rush into this, you have 2 years, look up what it will cost to live there and see if you
think you need to begin saving up." Grandson did some checking called dad "OMG Dad! a small studio apartment is $1,900 a month!"
Bingo!

Yep.The people in that area have roommates... sometimes three roommates!


Meanwhile you can get a house in my area for under $1000 a month.
Our mortgage is just over $800, son's is 900-something for a 4 br house on over 20 acres.

 

[MACKTEXAS]

The average monthly mortgage payment is the sum of all payments divided by the number of borrowers, which can be overstated upwardly by expensive, high-end loans.

In contrast, the median monthly mortgage payment represents the exact middle value, offering a more accurate typical cost.

The attached link (updated 02/06/26) includes a map of the United States,showing the median monthly mortgage payment for each and every state.

The map is about one-third down the page at this link -> The Motley Fool *[Hover over the map with your cursor to see the median mortgage payment for each state.]

_____________________________________________________________________

*"The Motley Fool is a multimedia financial-services company . . . Reaching millions of people each month through its website, books, newspaper column,radio show, television appearances, and subscription newsletterservices . . . " Per -> NASDAQ.COM

 

[Aunt Bea]

My grandson in college is talking about staying around the college area when he graduates to see if he can get work there (Upper Virginia bordering Washington D.C.) Dad told him, before you rush into this, you have 2 years, look up what it will cost to live there and see if you
think you need to begin saving up." Grandson did some checking called dad "OMG Dad! a small studio apartment is $1,900 a month!"
Bingo!

Off campus housing around Syracuse University is now running $1,100.00/bedroom/month.

The kids make it work.

Some, that have cars, live in my complex and split the cost of a two bedroom apartment at about $1,300.00/month among four people.


Back on topic, IMO homelessness is usually a symptom of some issue in a persons life that is more serious than a lack of funds or a shortage of housing stock. Address those problems and the housing issue along with many other issues will most likely solve themselves.

 

[Messy]

Off campus housing around Syracuse University is now running $1,100.00/bedroom/month.

The kids make it work.

Some, that have cars, live in my complex and split the cost of a two bedroom apartment at about $1,300.00/month among four people.


Back on topic, IMO homelessness is usually a symptom of some issue in a persons life that is more serious than a lack of funds or a shortage of housing stock. Address those problems and the housing issue along with many other issues will most likely solve themselves.

1100 for 1 bedroom? That's crazy. Here they are 350 to 560, depending on the city and place. But Amsterdam is also 900 or more than 1000 for 1 room and people who have refused to work for decades just live in a house with a garden for 400 rent in the real cheap area or 650 and then they sometimes whine on tv that the neighbour's tree grows over the fence.

 

[StarSong]

1100 for 1 bedroom? That's crazy. Here they are 350 to 560, depending on the city and place. But Amsterdam is also 900 or more than 1000 for 1 room and people who have refused to work for decades just live in a house with a garden for 400 rent in the real cheap area or 650 and then they sometimes whine on tv that the neighbour's tree grows over the fence.

Do you live in Holland? Your profile doesn't state where you live.

 

[CaliS]

I let my son's friends live with us off and on, but I would be afraid to accept a complete stranger into my home. I do have compassion, but also self preservation. DH and I give at church, and pray for those in most need of blessings.

 

[smiley]

there always seems enough land about unless we are talking major cities - and some people in Oz have opted for live in vans and attached tents and pay a weekly rental to stay somewhere - that's a life style some say they like as interviewed - others prefer bricks and mortar - some in cities some not - trying to mix and match the needs of the entire population in any country sounds like a bloody nightmare!! - anyone interested in a career in town planning?? arghh!!

 

[David777]

Since the primary topic of this thread has now run its course, I'll offer the below 2 links for those that actually want to really understand what has been occurring versus bits and pieces of simpleton manipulative nonsense being tossed their way from news media and politicians in the pockets of corporations and businesses. First this 2024 report is current regarding effects of illegal immigration with a focus on housing and societal costs.

https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Camarota-Testimony.pdf

Although the below 1986 report link is now 4 decades old, rather dated in a list of ways, it still offers an excellent analysis of why the USA has problems today including those that affect excessive increases in homelessness. May you read and understand. After the thorough 1986 immigration legislation, what happened is the political and media powers in the pocket of corporations allowed many of the illegal activities that were supposed to end to continue while endless usual diarrhea flowed from their media, hiding whatever from public awareness.

One thing I like a tiny twig floating hopelessly without effect in the vast flooding Mississippi River, will emphasize is the our current problems are highly related to what has been occurring with businesses and corporations for decades and a reason this peon long ago dropped out and tuned in from what I see as somewhat ridiculous mainstream society.

https://cis.org/Report/Illegal-Immigration-and-Colonization-American-Labor-Market

 

[RambleTamble]

Since the primary topic of this thread has now run its course, I'll offer the below 2 links for those that actually want to really understand what has been occurring versus bits and pieces of simpleton manipulative nonsense being tossed their way from news media and politicians in the pockets of corporations and businesses. First this 2024 report is current regarding effects of illegal immigration with a focus on housing and societal costs.

https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Camarota-Testimony.pdf

Although the below 1986 report link is now 4 decades old, rather dated in a list of ways, it still offers an excellent analysis of why the USA has problems today including those that affect excessive increases in homelessness. May you read and understand. After the thorough 1986 immigration legislation, what happened is the political and media powers in the pocket of corporations allowed many of the illegal activities that were supposed to end to continue while endless usual diarrhea flowed from their media, hiding whatever from public awareness.

One thing I like a tiny twig floating hopelessly without effect in the vast flooding Mississippi River, will emphasize is the our current problems are highly related to what has been occurring with businesses and corporations for decades and a reason this peon long ago dropped out and tuned in from what I see as somewhat ridiculous mainstream society.

https://cis.org/Report/Illegal-Immigration-and-Colonization-American-Labor-Market

The author of the first study is Steven A. Camarota who is the Director of Research at the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS), a Washington, D.C.-based think tank. He has held this position since 1996.

CIS is a member of the advisory board for Project 2025, a collection of conservative policy proposals led by the Heritage Foundation intended to reshape the federal government.

'Nuff said.

 

[smiley]

often [but not always!] homeless persons have a range of emotional/ sometimes physical /familiarly relationship issues/lack of normal developmental stages etc etc [the list can go on] Most govts/councils etc are either unable to deal with or not interested in dealing with all these issues when say 70-80% of the population are functioning ""normally"" - seem to self-educate well; find an interesting profession/ maybe marry and get married afford a home and get on with living their lives?? I am not attempting to disparage the 20-30% who seem unable to do so - just saying this is how it seems?? - ???? HOW TO FIX IT? - next window?? anyone wanna try??

 

[RambleTamble]

What are the main reasons for the homeless crisis?​

• Roughly 20–30% of people experiencing homelessness have a serious mental illness that may contribute to their housing instability.
• A much larger share — a majority of homelessness in many regions — is linked to housing affordability pressures and lack of affordable units, though precise percentages vary by location and measurement method.
• Mental health is prevalent within the homeless population, but housing affordability is generally considered the larger structural driver when researchers talk about what causes homelessness to rise overall.

They're building like crazy where I live, but just a small percentage of the new housing is affordable housing. Many of them are higher end units because that's what's most profitable.

 

[smiley]

sounds like we are not prepared to take care of everyone whichever way you put it?

 

[Messy]

What are the main reasons for the homeless crisis?​

• Roughly 20–30% of people experiencing homelessness have a serious mental illness that may contribute to their housing instability.
• A much larger share — a majority of homelessness in many regions — is linked to housing affordability pressures and lack of affordable units, though precise percentages vary by location and measurement method.
• Mental health is prevalent within the homeless population, but housing affordability is generally considered the larger structural driver when researchers talk about what causes homelessness to rise overall.

They're building like crazy where I live, but just a small percentage of the new housing is affordable housing. Many of them are higher end units because that's what's most profitable.

Yes same here. The housing crisis is the main reason. A guy on a News forum said that it costs so much to build them and then they get only 650 rent for a whole house. People are so spoiled here. They all think they have the right to have a social house, not apartment, with a garden when they can't or don't want to work or work part time. Lately the comments I read from singles. It's unfair! We need extra govt money! Why can't we live in a family house alone? We also want space! Boohoo poor us. I am super grateful that I can get a 1 bedroom apartment with 4 with 1 part time job. That is luxury. But that's not good enough for them.

 

[Paco Dennis]

sounds like we are not prepared to take care of everyone whichever way you put it?

Good question...too massive for me. So for an experiment lets ask AI :

Moving from a system rooted in individual competition and private ownership toward one based on collective care is a massive structural shift. It essentially requires moving the goalpost of society from capital accumulation to human well-being.
To prepare for such a transition, a society would likely focus on decommodifying essentials—ensuring that the things people need to survive are treated as rights rather than products.

---

1. Decommodification of Basic Needs​

In a "care-first" society, the market no longer determines who gets to eat or have a roof over their head. This involves:

• Universal Basic Services (UBS): Instead of just giving people cash (UBI) to spend in a private market, the state or community provides free access to transportation, high-speed internet, and utilities.
• Socialized Housing: Shifting from housing as an investment vehicle to housing as a human right. This could involve ending speculative real estate and creating high-quality, community-managed living spaces.
• Food Sovereignty: Establishing localized, non-profit food networks and community gardens to ensure nutritional security regardless of income.

2. Redefining "Work" and Value​

Free-market capitalism values "productive" labor (things that create profit). A society focused on care would pivot to:

• The Care Economy: Elevating the status of "reproduction" work—raising children, elder care, and community maintenance—to the same level as industrial or tech work.
• Shorter Work Weeks: Reducing the standard hours of labor to allow citizens time to engage in "mutual aid" and democratic participation.
• Democratic Workplaces: Replacing private ownership of companies with worker cooperatives where decisions are made by those doing the labor, not external shareholders.

3. Universal Healthcare and Accessibility​

Given your experience with peripheral neuropathy, you know firsthand that health isn't just about "fixing" a problem; it’s about long-term management and environmental adaptation. A care-based society would move toward:

• Social Model of Disability: Instead of expecting the individual to "fit" into a rigid economic system, the society adapts the infrastructure (public transit, workplace ergonomics, sensory-friendly spaces) to fit the person.
• Preventative and Holistic Care: Since the profit motive is removed, the focus shifts from selling expensive treatments to maintaining long-term wellness and providing robust support for chronic conditions.

4. Collective Ownership of Resources​

Taking care of everyone requires managing the "Commons"—resources like land, water, and energy that belong to no one and everyone.

Feature	Free Market Capitalism	Collective Care Society
Primary Goal	Profit Growth	Human & Ecological Flourishing
Resource Allocation	Ability to Pay	Human Need
Property	Private / Exclusive	Common / Social
Success Metric	GDP (Gross Domestic Product)	GNH (Gross National Happiness) or Well-being Index

---

How would we start?​

The "preparation" phase usually begins with Mutual Aid networks. These are grassroots organizations where neighbors help neighbors—sharing tools, food, and medical supplies—proving that we can meet our needs through solidarity rather than transactions.
Would you like to explore how specific cities or countries have already successfully implemented "Universal Basic Services"?

 

[Pinky]

Not too far from us, a complex of cube structures has been built to house the homeless. I would like to see more built around the GTA.