Enablers keep panhandlers on the street

Editor,

In response to the letter, "Don’t judge panhandlers," I have been homeless, I am a recovering addict, I have been to prison and I am a felon on parole. As difficult as it is, and the challenges I have been up against as a felon, I have a full time job. It’s not one I really want with the pay I desire, but I make myself go everyday so I don’t have to go stand on a corner with a sign and I can be a part of this community, pay my part in taxes and try to support my family. I am also registered for full-time school to begin a new career and I’m middle aged with medical conditions. I have had, and still do ha, a lot of road blocks; however, I continue to strive to overcome these challenges. I could have said to hell with it early on, and not done anything at all, getting free hand outs as I went back to prison. But I made a choice. I am willing to go the distance to reach to make a better life for myself. I entered counseling and I got fellowship support from my church. 

If people just would have given it all to me, I will not have gained the respect I have now for what I’ve earned. So, the panhandlers on the sides of the streets are there by choice. Community resources that are paid by our tax dollars in order to be a productive member of society have helped me and others, if we’re willing to put forth the minimal effort and the initiative to walk to several places and fill out applications.

I knew my background check would come back to haunt me, but I have still succeeded work. There are church fellowships and other community services willing to help. So, from personal experience, I believe as long as there are enablers, there will be people asking for a free hand out. I am sorry the letter writer’s your son was unable to get the help he needed sooner.