Somebody should do something

To the editor:

November is National Homeless Awareness Month. Homelessness is an issue that most of us probably do not think about very often. It is an issue that, in many instances, is unrecognized in our community. The annual statewide homeless count tells us that the face of homelessness in Cape Girardeau County is made up of mostly women and children. There are many reasons, but those in our community tend to center on scarce resources for single women with low-paying jobs who are trying to raise their children. So what can be done?

A local group has been struggling with this question for the last 18 months. We have reached the conclusion that a solution will not likely come anytime soon from Washington, D.C., or Jefferson City. After exploring several different options, we believe a successful and sustainable solution is possible by tapping into the resources from our local community, specifically the faith community.

We are inviting individuals and churches to participate in a discussion to better understand the problems of the homeless and become directly involved in providing the resources they need. Our goal is to involve churches in the provision of safe and clean shelter along with the establishment of relationships that help individuals regain self-sufficiency and prevent future episodes of homelessness.

Somebody should do something about the homeless issue in our community. That somebody is you and me. Please lend your support to help the homeless become self-sufficient. Join us at the Salvation Army at 9 a.m. Nov. 17 to learn more about how you can be a part of this effort.

LINDA GARNER, Chairperson, Transitional Housing Subcommittee, Community Caring Council Housing Needs Committee, Cape Girardeau