Homeless Aid

In its coverage of Christmas on Skid Row (“Poor Given $10 Bills as ‘Elf’ Carries on for Cadillac Santa,” Dec. 24), The Times portrayed what might have seemed like the ultimate act of generosity--giving the homeless money for Christmas.

Handouts are not what the homeless need. In fact, the first ever homeless opinion survey conducted jointly by the Los Angeles Mission and the Gallup Organization found the homeless agree. When asked what they need, the homeless called for job training and job skills programs, drug and alcohol programs, shelters, missions, and other places to sleep.

A truly generous act to help the homeless is giving them a way off Skid Row. Rehabilitation, training and job placement are the best gifts we can give the homeless because they are what actually enable the homeless to get off Skid Row and back into society. Individuals can make a difference in the lives of the homeless by supporting those organizations which provide a way off Skid Row.

MARK HOLSINGER

Executive Director

Los Angeles Mission