It's not a criticism, it's an observation.
The homeless problem

Mike Cox

Recently, the homeless issue brought controversy to the Columbia area. A commission was established, local governments are struggling with options, and everyone involved is trying to figure how to do the right thing.

There are many problems. Local businesses are upset about the location of shelters. Anywhere But Here is the overwhelming sentiment. Money is also a sticking point. But some of the problems associated with this issue will disappear if the commission can find a way to separate the homeless from those bums and vagrants hogging the resources.

We all know who the homeless are. Mostly women and children who are temporarily down on their luck and need a boost to get back on their feet. This is who we see in TV newscasts and magazine stories about the homeless.

But a lot of the people we actually run into are merely posing as homeless. These people used to be called beggars and winos. They aren't trying to improve themselves, intend to continue doing what they're doing indefinitely, and primarily want something to drink.

If the Homeless Commission can find a way to distinguish homeless from bum, decisions will get a lot easier. No one wants to deny help to those desperately in need, but the hobos and vagabonds who have long roamed the country looking for a handout have infiltrated the homeless people and are sucking away the limited resources

Guilt about giving to the needy has allowed many of us to be taken advantage of. Decades ago, only the truly desperate would beg for a living. Today, the guilt associated with living off the kindness of others has disappeared, and people with no intention of improving their lot are mixed in with the truly needy.

Polite society is starting to realize this, but political correctness prevents any rational discussions. So if this newly founded Homeless Commission, and others like it, can find a way to separate the real homeless from the imposters, the attitudes and resources will grow positively.

The bums have even grown more creative in their approach. It's almost like market research has been involved. We've all seen the sign Will Work For Food. It's obvious the person holding the sign wants neither work nor food. He is looking for a handout. I've even seen these guys work in shifts on cold days; one warming in a fairly nice car while his partner looks desperate at some busy intersection.

Sob stories involve stranded families, sick husbands, desperate searches for work, and promises to hunt you down and repay your kindness. If you give them money, you become a sucker, and they are encouraged to continue the practice. But then the truly homeless are left out

This is a sticky problem, but I'm sure the people who put Homeless Commissions together across the country already have a plan in place. After all, anyone in charge of spending tax money should be smart enough to solve a little problem like this. They are, aren't they?