An Answer That’s No Answer

The problems of homelessness and hunger appear to have become chronic, bringing with them increasing levels of annoyance and anger among the better-off. Aggressive panhandlers and men using front yards as toilets assault the senses and sensibilities.

A number of fed-up residents in the Orange County community of Costa Mesa think they have an answer: Shut the three respected charities that help the homeless. That would drive away those down on their luck--to someplace where they would become someone else’s problem.

How simplistic. How wrong.

Fortunately, city officials have been meeting for months with those running a soup kitchen and a shelter and a group that assists people who want to learn how best to help the homeless and ease concerns of residents, many of whom fear that petty crime is increasing.

The city’s mayor was right in urging the charities to remind those they help that they have to live by the rules. Of course, given the number of homeless people with mental problems, that is easier said than done. Still, the mayor said the problems caused by those using the shelters were not as bad as critics claimed, and that in any event throwing out the charities and hoping the clients followed was not the answer.

Homelessness and hunger are regional problems, demanding regional answers. All cities have to help solve the problem and show some compassion.