Tuesday, April 8, 2008

My MPA Capstone class visited the Broward County Central Homeless Assistance Center today for our final field trip of the semester. The facility is very impressive, providing a wide range of services to the homeless. Most of their staff are volunteers, except the medical staff. It is sad that homelessness exists. But it is amazing that Broward County has such a wonderful facility to help them get back on their feet.

Related but separate is my issue with PRIDE. I understand about pride and how some people have it by the bucketful. But what I don't understand is how some people allow their family or kids to suffer because of said pride. How can you say you're a good parent when you would rather have your kids live in your car than take advantage of the assistance available? And don't tell me pride is important when your kids go to school hunger, or shower in the fast food joint's restroom.

Holding on to your pride when you're responsible for only your own welfare is fine. But if you have a family that is depending on you GET HELP. It's only fair to the children you brought into this world. More than that it is your responsibility to take proper care of them.

4 comments:

Unknown said...

I am a great believer in having pride but not at the expense of hurting your kids or love ones - then that's stupid. I also wonder why people who has been working for years and paying taxes refuse assitance. They've been working for it so why not take it?

Anika Hamilton said...

That's exactly my point. Pride in and of itself is not necessarily a bad thing. But when others are involved...

*shaking my head, big sigh*

Phoenix said...

That's a tough one. I have a very hard time accepting help. Not sure why, but I always felt like it admitted failure or laziness. Having had to at some points in my life, I am a huge supporter of food shelves now. I think there was a disconnect before about need and ability. Sometimes you are able and you still need. Very different than laziness.

Anika Hamilton said...

That was one of the things our guide mentioned. Sometimes you're doing everything you're supposed to do as a responsible adult but circumstances just make things difficult.

Kelly chile, I'm glad you accepted help when you needed it. :-)