THE SPRINGS ECHO

Early on in our lives, we begin to hear promises. It begins with something small like a trip to the candy store. As we get older, more promises. Then maybe we hear of that big promise, a car at graduation! We hear promises over and over again. I now see, and I believe, in good faith, that the city, the churches, and the community are doing everything they can to fulfill their promises. I hope and pray that the things that have been overlooked or just have not been addressed might now be focused on.

 

To support the city's battles with homelessness, maybe, just maybe, someone's broken promise might be made complete. The one that comes to mind as the most important for all of us is the restroom situation: not being able to use them except only in certain places. Most establishments won’t even consider letting us in to do what every human being must do every day and every night. The only options we have are to risk being arrested for relieving ourselves outside or using portable outhouses that are very badly maintained and likely disease-ridden. It’s hard enough for men, but what about women?

 

We all know there are homeless people who do not live in shelters. I am one of them. The parks are part of our life. I have seen more people in our community giving for the holidays than in any past year. I thank every one of you for that. I know now is the time to ask for your support in helping us be treated with the same type of humanity that you would expect for yourself and your families.

 

The parks, as we all know, are part of our life. The police watch the city as do family and friends. I also watch. Why can't we get a restroom that is safe and clean for us to use? If we, as a whole; the city, the citizens, the police, and the homeless work together we can solve this problem. It is within our reach if we work together as a community of compassion.

 

No broken promises, please, just a request that I hope becomes part of our community. 

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