Money for Homeless Falls Off in Crisis

“The Ripple Effect in L.A.: Increased Homelessness” (Commentary, Oct. 3) is accurate. Social service agencies are facing a harrowing dilemma of the need for increased services and the reality of decreased funds. With the recession and the looming effects of Sept. 11, more and more blue-collar workers are being laid off, resulting in an increase in homelessness. With funds being sent outside of L.A., the funding sources are drying up. This is a disturbing quandary that can potentially bring tragedy to our own L.A. streets.

Joel John Roberts

Exec. Dir., People Assisting

the Homeless, Los Angeles

*

With the recent tragic events that have targeted our nation, we can only expect an increase in homelessness all over the country. Thousands of workers will lose their jobs. Those laid off will have nowhere else to turn for help, thus being forced onto the streets.

It’s wonderful seeing Americans donating money to help the victims of the terrorist attacks, but we also need to continue to raise money for the poor. The only thing that members of the public can do to fight against poverty is to continue fund-raising and donating money as they used to, before the events of Sept. 11.

Lilit Gedzhekushyan

Van Nuys