Well reading this story everyone of these people can afford to buy booze and cig's. Straighten up your lfe get in a 12 step program and get a job.

I think this is probably one of the most open-minded, fair report on homelessness I have ever read. Good work, Eric!

“People are told to come here,” the chief told councilors last week. “In some cases, they are given a bus ticket.”

Imagine that......we build more facilities and we get more people. Spread the word, Bangor is now a destination resort of sorts.

What’s the worst part of being homeless?

“I miss my kids,” he said, kicking the bottle at his feet. Sometimes, he goes to the public library and looks them up on Facebook, just to see pictures. “I miss my house. I don’t want to be like this.”

"BDN activists using my plight to sell newspapers is a close second. Of course I pity them because at least I still have my self respect."

Now you people say they should get a job. How many jobs are avable to the number of people out of work have any of you checked no you have not. Now the jobs that are availble do you need a collage education ect? Now there are people that are working full time that are taking part time jobs so they are taking away from someone that wants work an thats a proven fact. Now what person can live on part time work say at 20 hrs a week at minim wage ?? All your fast food places hire KIDS to work part time so all they half to pay is workers comp an no other benefits. I know that one McDonalds in waterville hires at least 50 kids to work so if one fast food place dose it i bet the others do it too.

Things will get worse you aint seen nothing yet

Farmer101 2:56 AM~ I agree... we've not hit the tip of the iceberg on this one, yet.

Sunny D and Vodka in a plastic bottle...def will knock any bum of his knocked over his tree seat....Actually, probably knock any dude over a log. Epic photo...epic bums....epic article. Honestly I spit the sunny D i was drinking all over my computer when I saw this cause I was laughing so hard....f'n bums

How unfortunate that over the past nine years we have been involved in two wars bleeding our country dry. Thanks "W".

Fortunately, I have been able to find work but so many people have been dumped by companies because of their bottom line. They wanted more profits so they work with fewer people. Everyone in this country should realize this could happen to them. This land where immigrants come every day to experience the good life knows that hard work is what gives them a chance and they are not afraid of doing that but it takes away jobs that our citizens could have had. There but for the Grace of God, go I.

get a job..hahahaha... what would we ALL do if "they" stopped printing money tomorrow, just stand and watch it all go down the tubes?

this isn't just a bangor, people slacking issue.. big government's taking us for all we got and it's not helping that ny, boston and many other big cities are sending people with one way tickets to our beautiful "service city" the buck has to stop somewhere and we're all feeling the implications. it is going to get a lot worse unless we start brainstorming a more sustainable, just way of living.

The next great depression is coming. Our biggest companies are all going multi-national and our manufacturing jobs are all moving elsewhere. This country will be a rusted out urban jungle in a couple more decades when unemployment hits 20%.

Obama's hope and change is working as planned, magnificently! Continuing down the path will truly redistribute the remaining wealth. When we all become equally poor, then we shall have obtained UTOPIA!

leumas, if mass homelessness is Obama's fault it is just as much yours, because you and your supposedly better-prepared candidates did not win. You didn't have a plan to avoid the continuing economic collapse, no one did.

Your snarky comments don't offer anything more than a scapegoat.

If you/we feel uncomfortable about the revealing photograph of the Sad Sunny-D and Popov Picnic, then you/we should truly look at ourselves and what we can do before it all goes down the tubes permanently.

feed them and they will come and stay........along with the rise in crime.

(the Liberals might as well blame Bush for this too...)

Mass homelessness is Obama's WISH. And it's coming true. I didn't blame it on other democrats or Bush. It is a designed method to take over everything..... or what's left of it.

6:28 AM, rnblnchrd

They already did!

On 11/21/09 at 4:08 AM, Jazz11 wrote: Repeated separate thumbs down will cause comment to be hidden

How unfortunate that over the past nine years we have been involved in two wars bleeding our country dry. Thanks "W".

I can hardly wait till some of this Obama Shlt starts coming around so we can blame him for everything too! Will you people just let it go? You're only making the future worse for your "Saint".

On 11/21/09 at 6:43 AM, leumas wrote: "Mass homelessness is Obama's WISH. " That's just plain stupid.

"I am for doing good to the poor, but...I think the best way of doing good to the poor, is not making them easy in poverty, but leading or driving them out of it." —Benjamin Franklin

If someone handed you a bus ticket, would you go to a place where they promise you handouts, or a place where there might be a chance to get a job? 30 million illegal aliens do agricultural work throughout the sunbelt. Millions of Asian immigrants work 80 hours a week in stores and restaurants. Is it a great life? no, but it gives them a base to build on and some kind of self worth instead of sitting around getting hammered and feeling sorry for themselves.

One girl said that she has been homeless for 10 years???? And what about the 20 yr old whose mom is dying, why isn't he at home helping her????

.

Some of these homeless people seem to have formed friendships with other homeless people........Why don't they band together, get jobs and share an apartment??? In better economic times good hearted people and cities have opened their hearts and pocketbooks to help these folks, Times have changed now and us good hearted folksand cities have all we can do to take care of ourselves.........Time for the homeless themselves to get serious about how to improve their situation .......Definitly time to think outside the box, the big cardboard box called home.

"Mass Dependency" is Obama's wish, and it's coming true faster than we think!

Most of you are really pathetic. Obama did this, Bush did that.

No, look in the mirror. The country is how it is because YOU did nothing to help it be different.

Losers

WHAT DO YOU PROPOSE ITHINKSO2?

Is that the solution? Play the blame game...blame Obama, blame Bush, blame liberals, blame conservatives. Pretty apparent that neither liberals nor conservatives can even begin to solve most of our problems. Everyone has their heads so buried in sand or other places and the problems just keep getting bigger and bigger and bigger.

No jobs, no homes, no healthcare, 2 expensive wars, mounting debt...how about some constructive thinking instead of blaming everything and everyone.

leumas, I don't know if it's Obama's wish but it is a political wish from groups like the Bilderburgers, Congress and the stinking rich etc. Presidents are basically the middle man if he goes against congress and all these other groups a "magic bullet" will find him. But this is what N.A.F.T.A. and New World Order is all about.

Clintons parting words were "welcome to new world order". It was implied to mean world peace but when Bush got in office what happened, there wasn't peace, quite the opposite.

I think before any more people get all homeless and lazy, from hopelessness and poverty and letting the government control our lives the best thing to do is stop buying stuff from companies, especially those who were American and then moved to a foreign country. I call them traitors, even Ben and Jerry's ice cream sold out to a foreigh country, let their over priced cheap quality stuff stay where they moved it to. I know everyone of us has a job talent, we may not love it but are good at it, and I can tell you anyone with a job talent is more than happy theses days to share what they know for the sake of taking back our country. All business's started with one pair of shoes or one shirt, or one car, we did it once we can do it again.

I don't think homelessness itself is a problem directly related to the economy or who is president. Our country has had many economic downturns, some worse than others. We are all given the same opportunities from a young age, no matter what our background, and if we want to work hard and get an education, the sky is the limit. Yes, some of us have lost jobs, I am now working at a job making a little over half the salary I was making last year, but I refuse to give up, and may have to get a second job to not lose the things I have acquired over my lifetime. At what point down the road to homelessness do you have to stop and analyze the situation and make the necessary changes to avoid that, some do it sooner than others, it's called self discipline. And yes, some of those folks may have not had a father(or mother, or both) like my own growing up beating drive and ambition into me so when the time came to leave the nest, the tools and knowledge were in place for me to be able to take care of myself.....I do feel sorry for those folks.

They are homeless and jobless because they are drunk or on drugs! Trust me this state gives money away like its freakin candy!!! I know many people that sit on there fats butts and they get there home paid for, their internet paid for, food paid for and they even get gas cards to drive to the darn methadone clinics. They are also doing drugs and alchohol on the side and partying with our hard earned tax money. The system is screwed up!!

When I was in California in the 80s I noticed there were no homeless on the streets of LaJolla I was told they were given a bus ticket elsewhere, the same thing in Portsmouth NH during the 90s.

The destitute are hopeless. Spending $20 on booze and cigarettes doesn't matter because it is an infinitesimal amount compared to what they must save to get a weekly rental. In that situation the rationale is easy to understand. This is not simply a problem for the individual this is a problem for all of us.

Unfortunately, we are not all created equal nor have we all had the benefit of good examples of disciplined living. There are people in the world, sometimes in our own families, who will never "get it". Marginalizing our less fortunate brothers and sisters does not solve the problem. I don’t have an answer but I try to do my part by contributing to the municipal fund for public assistance, donating to food pantries, giving food to people who are begging. Most of us are just one emergency away from the streets.

You know I have never been a person on the system and when things were tough and I was a mother at a young age I worked hard. I worked two jobs and finished high school. I made sure I educated myself in something that would never go under for the good of my child. I would feel soooooooo guilty to take from hard working people that when I did borrow i always paid back. I never took anything for free. When my mom helped me work and go to school I made sure to give her my paychecks. She was soooo proud of me. My husband and I work very hard and yes I have had to work fast food, but you know you do what you have to to put food on the table. I quit smoking because we couldnt afford it. While people were out drinking I was saving that money. Drinking and partying are things you do when you have enough to do that. That 20 that they spent for booze could have gone into the pocket and saved for new clothes from goodwill for a job interview. Trust me there is plenty of work out there. I only graduated from high school and I know there is plenty of work. I have never not had a job. People that tell me they cant find work arent doing it right, you have to call and hound the people you applied to. I always go in to a job and tell them Im willing to do anything and they do everything in there power to get you in to work :) You really just have to want to work!!

This is a sad commentary on society and life, especially that of the homeless, but also the rest of us who live in warm homes, have plenty to eat and who often don't see those who are less fortunate than ourselves.

It is easy to blame the politicians, Bush and Obama and all of their predecessors. But this isn't a problem that has suddenly come upon this society. This goes back for many centuries...probably since the beginning of human history as we know it.

There are no easy answers, but there are some questions: Some of those have family as mentioned in the article...a mother in Houlton...children that are only seen on facebook.

Have we become so thick and lizard skinned that we turn our backs on family and loved ones? How did family survive a century or so ago? Many built big houses or added on and in effect, you had several families...generation...living together under one roof. It was at one and the same time family and survival. Think about it.

And think about the words that Jesus said in Matthew 25 "When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When di we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The KIng will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for me." and it continues..."For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me."

So, reflect on these words and in the words of a great prophet, "Do something."

We must first forget about Bush or O'Bama. This is our problem. We cannot sit back and expect simeone else to deal with this problem. I have volunteered for years doing community dinners. Early on I couldn't understand how the homeless could criticize what we were serving , until I came to the realization that many has serious mental problems. It's the easy way out to play the blame game. This is a local issue and should be addressed by local people. Rather than crap on these people, ask how you can help them out. Volunteer at a shelter, stop by the police station with some sandwiches, ask you pastor how you can become a more compassionate member of humanity. We cannot look to Washington and Augusta to deal with Bangor's homeless. They are so far removed and really don't care. All politicians are concerned about is getting re-elected. We don't mean squat to them, except when they want our votes. Don't allow this issue to divide us, this is the time to recognize that we are all in this together. If every reader of this article were to give up 4 hours of television a week to address this problem, think how many lives you would impact. When you are at the mall christmas shopping, don't avoid eye contact with the bell ringers, drop a $10. in the bucket. You'll never miss it and you might even feel better about yourself. Blessings and prayers to all of you. Open your hearts and wallets , make a better world for those less fortunate than yourself.

I can remember many years ago we had factories that hired many of these people that the higher educated people didn't want - We used to have gas stations attendants at every pump - most of the jobs that USED to be available are now gone - Many used to join the military or work in the woods or as farm hands - Not everyone is forunate enough to have good parents with parenting tools - not everyone has a father or mother that owns the family business that can be passed down - It is very easy to idle your time with cig's & alcohole when the road ahead looks hopeless -

Just think what the $150,000 spent on studies for a new adutorium could have done for these people - Just think what 4000 turkey's could do for the TRUELY HOMELESS - (these turkey's & pumpkin pies shouldn't be given to people who drive up in cars and drress better than you do) - Manna is not doing enough for their intended begging ways - Churches could open their doors at night - what a waste to heat these HOUSES OF GOD BUILT FOR HIS FLOCK - locking the doors - only open for business when the plate is being passed around - UNLOCK THOSE DOORS - There are solutions - The very people who beg for money & food turn the other cheek to those who really need it - thinkaboutit

What kind of utopia are some of you people living in? You are never going to get rid of homelessness. People are mentally ill, drug dependent and drink themselves onto the street. That is where they will stay. Some end up there because of economic hardship, those work themselves out. The people that live, drink and abuse drugs won’t walk down that path to cleaner life. If we were the richest nation in the world, we would still have homeless, so stop smoking your medical marijuana and believing you can create the Land of Oz.

You can only house the homeless overnight, get them out of the cold. How about we use the failing civic center, open up the banquet hall area at night and line up the cots. You should be able to put a few hundred cots in there from 9pm to 6am. It’s already heated, won’t cost us much more then it already does, other then security. Yeah, it will draw, but we already draw people in from all around.

Thinkaboutit - St Johns in Bangor locked its doors after a homeless person started a fire on the alter area. Alot of the older churches do not have sprinkler systems and the insurance tells them they must lock them up.

Benbarr, when you say "do something" are you referring to us or them?.......

Im sorry but I know quite a few of the homeless in bangor and they are addicted to perscription medication and they are being fed this like it is freakin candy. That is what is happening with society people. These quacks we call doctors are what is causing these mental issues. They are normal working people until something in there life happens, they go to the doc and next thing you know they are putting them on antidepressants and that is just the start. The people I knew are no longer the same people, they look at life after perscriptions and state counseling in a different gloomy light. The state is not helping these people in the right way. They are trying to cover everything up and then give them housing and money for the rest of there lives to live the same patterns.

Ladyslipper, that would be us.

i've been there ... homeless in the bangor area in the not too distant past. I guess i'm one of the success stories referred to. But then, I don't have a drug or alcohol problem, and my mental health issues are manageable. I don't know the answer to the problem. It's disheartening when you're hip-deep in it, but i don't think there's any single one solution except, perhaps, cooperation between the people with the resources and the know-how to help. PCHC, the Main Street Shelter, Manna, ARC, the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen... all help, but a more concerted effort is necessalry.

and bobo_1 --- you are so totally ignorant, and lacking in compassion, i'm not even going to waste my wit in answering you.

iTHINKso2 wrote: "Most of you are really pathetic......... The country is how it is because YOU did nothing to help it be different."

Speaking for the "Losers"....... What should we have been doing? Is it not enough to work 80 hours/week to pay our own way AND support the State's welfare programs?

iTHINKso2, I don't hate you. You can't help it that you were raised with your hand out and don't know any other way.

This could happen to anyone. Illness, loss of jobs....and there are few jobs.

Brandy...there is alot of truth to what you are saying. I know one young couple who moved to another state and is in that situation. Too many pain meds, treated for depression and just spiraled out of control. The drinking and the drugs may start as recreation or a few hours escape but for some it becomes a way of life. In many cases, these people have absolutely no hope. It is really sad....there is no reason for it in this country. Where I live you don't see homelessness. People have a way of helping neighbors out. We know each other by name and everyone pitches in to help. This is really heart breaking...

I just left the Bangor area and moved to a new state earlier this year. It is incredible the difference. 'Hiring' signs are plentiful, and I have yet to see one homeless person on the street. Bangor is a haven to homeless people, the police chief is absolutely correct. It will only get worse there. I'm so glad I'm gone.

Too many people , Not enough jobs. No nit picking, No who should do what, Just Fact. There is no answer, and yeah it's going to get worse. I so wish there was a way.

If someone is truly "Down on their luck" I can't imagine a friend or family member not taking them in. If they don't have a job to contribute to bills they can do the housework for the homeowners while they are at work, watch the kids, help out with chores. If I had a friend who needed a place to stay and would do this at my house, I would never refuse them a bed.

Sadly though too many people want to feel sorry for themselves and do nothing physically or mentally to better themselves. I'd be damned if I spent the few dollars I had on cigarettes, alcohol or drugs. What had happened to peoples pride?

And no, I am not willing to provide the same accommodations to a stranger, if no one they know has allowed them into their home, there must be a reason.

Jazz11: of course it is Bush's fault, so is global warming, Aids, landslides, Tsunami's, the list goes on and on.. get over it. here is a solution that does not require the government. if you are so concerned, why don't you offer one or two of these homeless people a room in your house or apt for a few weeks, You know, just until they can get back on their feet.

Well the negative ones on here, be thankful you have a warm home to live in. Dont you realize some people just get lost in this world?? I understand the parts about being able to get cigarettes and alcohol, that is not right, but Im sure it is given to them, and maybe the alcohol keeps them warm, and maybe they just become alcoholic because what do they really have to lose? Yes they should try to get jobs, but be honest people if you were an Employer and someone came to you and told you they were homeless and wondered if they could have a job, someone with a heart would love to do this for them, but you snots out there would turn them away because of the automatic dont trust a homeless person attitude. Look at all of these buildings in Bangor that sit empty, the old Home Depot, Wal-lmart building and other ones, tell me there is not enough money generated in Bangor Maine for someone to take these buildings over and give more beds to the homeless, thats just my opinion. I do realize if this was done, than there would be more people taking advantage that probably did not need it. I realize also there are some homeless people out there that just may like that lifestyle of going to shelter to shelter in different states, but obviously they have mental problems because who would want to be homeless? They form bonds and become family to the people that they travel with and share sleeping places with. I for one think it is so sad! I live in Lincoln and the other day there were three homeless people here and I gave one of them some money, and I myself at first was leary, because I did not want it to go to booze, drugs ect. Its the chance I took but you know, I am glad I took that chance because the look in his eyes was that of a thankful person... Wake up you rich snobs, and dig in your wallet a little bit to help or hire some of these people that want to make a change in their life, there are some of them that really do. This Country is one screwed up mess, and dont just blame Geroge Bush or Obama, its us the people too, we can make changes for our communities and ourselves with out the help of Political figures, there are lots of people with Money in the state of Maine, stop living so high off the hog and have some heart. So sick of the Rich People In this Country! Come down A Level to the real world. Everyone is suffering besides them.

How many people in our state are being fed and housed directly by a check form the state? Longterm handouts are a culprit in this problem and the generational education of socialism. So many feel like they "deserve" a check, a meal, a home. We need a dramatic National Attitude adjustment!

Thank you Eric Russell for a factual article on homelessness. I personally do not feel people can step over the stigmas attached to it and see "it’s rare when a homeless person has only one diagnosis. Oftentimes it’s alcoholism, coupled with depression, coupled with more serious mental health diagnoses." Homelessness is more complex than a lack of housing options and a matter of a person wanting to "Straighten up, get in a 12 step program and get a job." I am thankful daily I have never been homeless.

There is an very old saying

You do not know what you are talking about

until you HIT the BOTTOM of the BARREL<<

Pride, what about Pride in Us

Some days I wish ALL the Black and White stinkers

Could get a Good Look at the Bottom of the Barrel

How long I do not know

Long enough I guess to be overwhelmed

And get a change in ATTITUDE<<

If YOU are NOT part of the Solution You are PART of the PROBLEM<<

I agree with that it will only get worse. This sense of entitlement that is sweeping the country will only make this situation worse. States are going bandrupt...there is just no more money. There will be no more welfare and unemployment checks to hand out and people will end up on the streets. The system just does not work. There are generations of families who live on welfare. There is absolutely no reason for that. I know some on disability who would like to work but there are times when pain kicks in and they can't but because the way the system is set up it's all or nothing. There are many creative ways that could be used. Companies could develop products, train and even have housing offered to people who are willing to work for them just to help people get back on their feet. We are depending too much on government to fix the problems and they want us to depend on them even more. This dependancy on government will only make things worse.

In most cases I wouldn't give money to homeless people. It's like someone said it's a chance you take. Buy a meal instead or fruits or something. Even a blanket or boots, hat, gloves. It's really sad...

How many People have we kicked out of Institutions ah (BMHI) comes to MIND<<

and never did do what WE PROMISED<<.

How many people across this country are in the same BOAT<<

Nope we Spend Tons of Money to get or take away Human Rights

Churches you can just Stick IT<

But<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Someone said it pretty Well

What JObs

Look around

Burger KING McD`s All the Stores at the Mall

All young Kids get the JOBS

to do what with

Spend on Slut like clothing, gang related clothing, Hand Pilots, Cell Phones that do it ALL

Music, Sick Violent Vides Games and on and on it goes.

What FREAKIN JOBS

maine62, if only you had a taste of being homeless, you would not be so quick to laugh, you r very hearthless. i once had to live on the streets but with luck and a will to survive got me out but times were not has bad as they r now. i thank god every day for helping me out. another thing that bothers me is all the illegals living in this town or anywhere in maine get all the benifits, rents paid, food stamps and they never even paid a penny of taxes. that is something that needs to be addressed soon before they take everything we ever had. also, some of these homeless people could find work up north where they have to depend on mexicans to do there work. i do agree some homeless are not willing to work, only look for handouts. they have to look at themselves and make a decision if they could escape that kinda of life.

StacyEmery: I agree. I think many of us can be very thankful we have never been homeless. It is complex and I give credit to those, like Dennis Marble, who work with these people.

ElectraGlide: You are so right about the lack of jobs and opportunities here. It is just one more factor. It is unfortunate, in many ways, that the Bangor area is "the last stop" for many; there may be the social service agencies here (Acadia, etc) but the lack of jobs and other essentials to get one back as a productive member of society are largely lacking.

I have to put my 2 cents in about being homeless. I became homeless 4 yrs ago and went to the BAHS. Probably the scariest thing I ever had to do was walk through that door,not knowing what would happen to me,because I was always afraid of homeless people. The staff were so supportive and compassionate,making me feel like things would be ok. I got to know alot of the people staying there and I have to say that they were not what I expected.So many people like me,down on their luck,no place to go.Until you have experienced being homeless,try not to judge others. The worst part being at the shelter was when we would wait to go in at night. We would gather outside until the door opened. I can not tell you how many times cars went by yelling at us to get a job or calling us losers. So hurtful to hear those things when you feel bad enough. Not all homeless people are drunks and druggies as alot of people percieive them to be. There were alot of people with mental illness staying there,because there is no other place for them to go. After being there for 3 months I applied for a job within walking distance. When I told them where I lived,I didn't think I had a chance in hell to get the job. Well, I got the job,got an apartment and turned my life around. I pray that circumstances never lead me to be homeless again. Thank you to all the staff at BAHS for all that you do. It is not an easy job. And to all the people out there that don't know what it's like to be helpless,cold and hungry,I pray this never happens to you. MM

fairywingz: Good thoughts. Sometimes we have to try (or at least imagine) walking in another's shoes and what they go through. Matthew 25.

twwreath: You said it.

How about working out a deal with one of the vacant big boxes like the old Home Depot building? It could be partitioned to minimize unnecessary heating costs.

We need to take care of our own, first, however. We can't afford to create a situation that makes us a magnet for sending all of the eastern U.S.'s homeless (unless the senders want to help out).

One of the saddest aspects is that this situation was foreseeable.

Perhaps Jane and her passed out companion in the picture wouldn't be homeless if they stayed away from the bottle.

jimdingo, thank you for your inspiring comment. You should get an award or something. Seriously. You are the kind of person that built America, or at least the America that everyone was proud of.

Augusta should be appalled at this type of story. Their policies have driven hundreds of thousands of jobs from the state and this is the result.

For the people that belittle and criticize those who are homeless, please, walk a mile in their shoes first. Try and get a job with no address and no transportation, try and look clean and presentable to apply for a job where the only place one can wash is a McDonald's restroom. Try sleeping outdoors in an area where you never know if you're going to be assaulted or rousted by police. Try spending all day, every day, lugging all your worldy possessions around with you so they won't get stolen by other desparate homeless individuals. Stand in line humiliated waiting for a warm meal, the only meal you'll get that day, try curling up in a drafty alleyway in late November, shivering, sleepless, and then come back and make a comment in the BDN on how spoiled rotten and ungrateful the homeless are. Vodka and orange juice would look pretty damn good to you too...

That picture says it all.

Send them to Florida....

The average smoker pays about $7 per day to smoke. Four people spending that could rent an apartment. Fact is, people do not want smokers in their apartments. It's s serious barrier to finding a place to live. Most of these people are homeless because of a behavior that others find unacceptable.

Another problem William is would you really want people like these people smoking in your apartment?

It would be burnt down within a week.

God bless Dennis, Shawn, and Rev. Carlson and the others who are helping our homeless brothers and sisters...

Lord, when I am hungry, send me someone to feed;

When I am thirsty send me someone who needs a drink;

When I am cold, send me someone to warm;

When I am sad, send me someone to cheer;

When I need understanding, send me someone who needs mine;;

When I need to be looked after, send me someone to care for;

When I think only of myself, draw my thoughts to another;

So let us pray as though everything depends on God,

And work for peace and justice and shelter as though God depends on us for everything.....

I say if the homeless can afford alcohol they can also afford their own health insurance.

If they don't pay.. put 'em in jail until they can reform their criminal ways! (argh! Pirate sound!)

Chersully giving out bible verses, but wants eqaul rights, she is definately not a true christian then.

i like it thinkaboutit, but hey be careful the moderator is posting. give you ahint her name is chersully2000 or karenlite lol. She has reported me so many times

Thanks David I just wanted to give a different perspective to the way people look at the homeless,but I see so many narrow minded will never get over the stigma of all homeless being scum of the earth. I just wanted people to try and imagine through my eyes what it would be like for a 45 year old woman to all of a sudden because of unseen circumstances,have to go to a shelter. I do have to say that although it was the worst time of my life, I am a better person today. It made me realize that you make what your life is and never ever take things for granted,because in a split second things can change dramatically. I wish people could understand that or at least try to. MM

Brandy, you mentioned before to save some money and go to Goodwill to buy clothes to wear for a job interview. I actually did that 4 days before I had an interview to work at an assisted living facility.I found a nice outfit,but I couldn't find any shoes. Every day I walked to Goodwill to look for shoes,but never had any luck. I figured I would have to wear my ratty old sneakers and would look unprofessional. I planned to tell the person interviewing me that I was sorry about my sneakers,but hey I am homeless and can't do anything about it. The shelter has a table that has donated clothes and other items on it. Sometimes even shoes,but not the day of my interview. Lots of stuff on that table that day. Before my interview I once again went to Goodwill hoping I could find shoes. No luck. True story.When I got back to the shelter to get ready for my interview, the table with all the stuff was empty except for a pair of black,really ugly shoes in my size. Nobody at the shelter knew I was looking for a pair of black shoes. Nobody knew where they came from. I got the job and never wore the shoes again. Never lose hope!!!! MM

I know something could be done. Centers where these people could do woodworking, a place to live, help for their addictive problems. But it would take money and people doing volunteering. I know it would work. Who ever started it should not think of profits but just sustaining people and helping them while they get back on their feet. Places where there would be huge gardens...sell vegetables. Even like green houses and florists. Repair services like clothes, shoes, small appliances. Donated and sold. People have to brainstorm and get ideas going. Christmas tree farms would keep people employed for seasons. Make wreaths for Christmas. Plant more trees in the spring. Very few people do not have some type of skills that can be used or developed....come on this America...could be done.

firefly : I agree

jimdingo, jj16oz, RevGerald, and firefly : Good comments...some good ideas, and inspiring words.

Good ideas firefly,but who is actually willing to implement them?

And to Eric and the BDN I applaud you on a story well written,but why show what people percieve as homeless with the picture of what you took? You are just adding to the beliefs that all homeless people are drunks. Marianne

jimdingo, your story is what the BDN should be reporting......examples of success and the homeless overcoming unsurmountable odds, your type of spirit and courage should be the emphasis when describing the homeless.......By emphasizing the homeless condition as bleak , dismal, hopeless, and doomed; is counter productive.......One of the best books I've ever read is George Orwell's , "Down and Out in Paris and London"....his own story of homelessness and poverty .........

jim and cher...donations would help but large companies or an individual who is loaded. I think something like that could sustain itself but it would be start up. It would help not only the individual and families but also communities and the country as a whole. Imagine the hope and encouragement it would give people. It would also help weed out those people who really don't want to help themselves and those that want to but just need a little help in a low time in their life.

Lady you are so right. I really wish that they had some success stories and not the bleak ones that they talked to. I did not have courage or the spirit when i became homeless at all. You have to want a better life because you only have one life. A good friend of mine told me to pull up my bootstraps and do what you have to do and I did. Maybe I should write a book too!!! lol Marianne

Jim...I live in an area where I am blessed I don't see this. All it takes is someone a big heart and a big mouth...LOL....

Well obviously I do have a big mouth as you all can see. Today I have seen ignorance and I have seen compassion to our fellow citizens who might or might not need our help. I will and can help out to those who want it. In fact I will be calling the BAHS to see what I can do to help out,especially during the holidays. I know what it is like to be there during Thanksgiving and not having anything tio be thankful for. They do their best,but it is not the same as being with your family. Marianne

Great job on the photo's, Kevin.-----I'm sure it isen't easy tracking these people down in some of the places they use as a refuge.

Jim...if we'd all do what we can in our little part of the world the world would be a much better place. Good luck with that. I'm sure there are people who would be willing to help. What I meant by "big mouth" is making noise to help those who need help. If we don't speak for them no one will. Sometimes we get into a place where we feel so helples that the only hand we reach out to is the one that reaches out to us. God bless...

Louise, Do you think that his tracking down these people was a good example of what homeless is. His photos are one sided. Can he find the success stories instead of the "GREAT PHOTOS" he got of the abusers? Has Eric researched some of the better examples of how being homeless and actually rising out of the situation to go on and be a decent and working citizen? Why not check out the success stories of the homeless? I am sure there are alot that have rizen above this stereotype that you have created by showing pics of drunks. Thanks for showing what people already percieve as homeless!!! Great job Eric and Kevin. Marianne

I go into stores and fast food places all the time who are "hiring all shifts". Drink up your booze and get a job. As one who has worked every day for 40 yrs, i have no sympathy for you idiots. And I'm not giving you any money for cigarettes either.

Why doesn't Bangor set up special bicycles attached to generators and they could get paid for the electricity they generate. It would be good for the environment, too.

Jimdingo that is a really cool story LOVE IT! And wtg on making your life what you want :) I wish more people would not lose hope and become part of the system. There is always a way to turn your life around. Unfortunately people just dont have the drive to something with there life because they think there is no hope! Well there is and you really do make you life the way you want it.

brandyl673: You make some good points. Sometimes there are those who do need assistance from "the system", so to speak, but unfortunately, there are many that have a hard time getting out of that cycle once they become part of "that system." I am not talking about getting help (food,etc) from church groups,etc., but the more "institutionalized" assistance that can often become perpetuating and hard for some to get out from under. Maybe that is why some just choose to live outside, under bridges,etc. as they feel they are more in control of their lives that way. ( but of course , that is not a good outcome either.) If one can keep strong and have the will to more than survive and as you say, not lose hope (sometimes easier said than done), then there would be more good outcomes like that of Jimdingo. It is good to hear such real-life stories.

It's people like bamabasher who discourage people into helping themselves. I have tried to be nice with all my comments, but anyone looking down on someone who is less fortunate than you,go to hell. Ya think you can make it on minimum wage to get an apt .food and utilities? Nothing against anyonewho works at fast food places,but come on, seriously you can't do it and that is why so many people are out of luck and can't get by. Wake up please and stop putting people down. You must have a very secure life to be so high and mighty. Congrats!!!!!!! ONCE AGAIN,WALK IN THE SHOES OF OTHERS. Marianne

I read Rene Ordway every weekend and I would love to see her do a positive story and maybe successful homeless people that made it after being down and out. Rene I implore you to do a follow up and try to see the good and the other side of all these stories. Looking forward to it!! Marianne

You can always hire half the poor, to kill the other half of the poor.

I have never in my life looked down on another human being. I also know that you have to want to make yourself a better life before it's going to happen. I think I can assure you that these "drunks" you spoke of were not "created" or stereotyped by a photographer or a reporter. I would suggest that maybe You might find us some wonderful success stories and have them printed for us all to read. Oh right, that's not your job. And yes, I do think that tracking these people down is a good example of what homelessness is all about. Did you think they all lived in a hotel somewhere? This is how it goes out there. I see them every time I go by the shelter and the parks. What would You perceive as homeless??--

The town has just built a new court house and have moved out of the old place. Turn it into a shelter.

jimdingo wrote: "I can not tell you how many times cars went by yelling at us to get a job or calling us losers."

jim, those a-holes were probably 35 years old, living in mom's basement. In spite of their crude remarks, they did you a favor by motivating you to get the hell going and out of the shelter.....

Well, I certainly think that we all have to dig deeper into our pockets because sometimes there is loose change in there that could buy a meal for someone. And then you might say that it belongs to the person wearing the pockets. How deep is your love? Do you love your neighbor? You say, "Who is my neighbor?" Your neighbor is that lady or gentleman sleeping on a log by the pine tree.

A true story (excerpt from my Facebook)

Not too long ago, I wrote about a man who was homeless and he did not feel like living anymore. He kept telling me, "I need help." So, I said, "Why don't we pray?" Most recent, I saw him outside the library here in "Saint" Augustine, not far from the Great Cross, and he was holding a sign asking for help, but this day, he was smiling. And I said "Hello, my friend, do you remember me? I am the one who prayed for you." And his eyes got all big and bright and he said, "I sure do." So then, I asked him how things are going, and he said, ’’Well, I got a job down in Jacksonville, but I got there and the guy told me, ‘I only need you for a day.’" And that is the truth of the matter...

The Holy Bible

Acts 2:44-47 (The Message)

"Everyone around was in awe—all those wonders and signs done through the apostles! And all the believers lived in a wonderful harmony, holding everything in common. They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person's need was met."

Janylee McGlinchy

I can understand the selfish among us driving by the needy and scoffing, they are consumed by themselves and wouldn't notice anyone other than themselves anyway. What I can't understand is the people that are one paycheck away from joining them not being a little more concerned about their plight. The money lovers on Wall Street have really done it right this time and there are going to be a lot more homeless before this is over. I hope that when I join the ranks of homeless, I can look them in the eye and say that I did my part to help. I'll feel more at ease in my new circumstances if I tried to help when I was able. Happy Holidays, if you are inside, warm, and still have a job. If not, you're on your own.

On 11/21/09 at 11:34 AM, jj16oz wrote: "For the people that belittle and criticize those who are homeless, please, walk a mile in their shoes first."

It doesn't appear that "Norman" got his mile in today.

Bottoms up!

There is only one place you can go when you are broke. To work!!!!

On another note...some people commenting don't realize just how easy it is to become homeless. I don't do drugs, don't even drink and am educated and a good person and I have been homeless before. All it takes is something as simple as a house fire, a septic problem or the sale of a home when you are a renter. That happened to my children and I. Something major broke in the place we rented and the landlord had the house up for sale and though it would sell quicker if the renters were gone so they let it get condemned. We had 7 days to get out and nowhere to go. Fortunately for us it was summer so we camped for a month and then stayed in a motel for another 3 weeks. We have a therapeutic dog for one of my children that we HAD to keep. It was really difficult finding anyone who would rent to a family with a small dog. Every person reading or writing in these comments is only one crisis or tragedy away from being homeless.

Louise: You make some legitimate points; I think this article was quite well-done in conveying many of the aspects of homelessness. It is important to show it as it is.

Centarumyst: Glad you got through your ordeal . It is often difficult to rent when one has children (try teenagers!) and pets. People are so quick to judge; they do not have a clue sometimes. People should not be so complacent; it is flimsy ground.

WAKE UP BANGOR......This is when it is most important to give rather than recieve, we the people of this country let alone the individual states and their towns should be trying to help the less fortunate more than ever. We are surrounded by economic depression, recession, extremely high unemployment numbers, high interest rates, unecessary taxe rates that COULD be adjusted for hard times, let alone the fact that we are on the brink of socialism. Whether or not you want to believe it or not, we are in for some rough times ahead. We as a country have exceeded the greed factor, ignored the crys of the needy,and totally turned our backs on humanity when it comes to helping those in need. I was born in Bangor and lived in Bangor and Brewer for 56 years, and remember hard times O to well. BUT I also remember when people gave clothes,food,a helping hand and even money to help others in times of need. I have ,over the years watched the churches flourish,the pastors enjoy great times with new homes,new cars,and preach the gospel in regards to "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you", be a freind to man woman and child and other cliches that we all know all to well. Just what kind of Utopia are people living in today? I can remember when you went to church and if all you had was a quarter for the collection plate ,it made you feel good to pass that along. Now the multi million dollar churches have far exceeded that, it is a business more than a place to worship,it's all about the almighty dolar...!!! Would God want you to leave the doors of the house of woprship closed to mankind? I don't think so !!! Let me ask you this, how great would it be if these very wealthy churches,and flourishing business opened their doors and hearts to the needy and homeless to offer a hot meal, or shelter for a night? You have the Bangor Civic Center, churches,town halls etc,and I'm sure some old housing in the vacinity that would serve as shelter for the winter months at least. There is enough money in Maine to create housing fo rthe needy, I'm not saying give the homeless everything for nothing,create jobs within, let them help to maintain these establishments,feel a part of societ, start a new life. Yes there will be the exceptions,the alcholics,the drug abusers etc etc ,but not all are users, a lot are just down and out with no place to go let alone a job to go to. Whose fault is it that our businesses are leaving the country. Look within to point the finger, them multiply that times ?? Maine needs to gear up towards a more positive direction and decrease the amount of gimme,gimme,gimme and give,give,give. If people worked together to make a difference,it would be noticed in employment, community stability, a decrease in the amount of homeless,and financial independence. Maine, concentrate your efforts on lowering taxes,especially that damned excise tax.....put people to work,give up some of your fat income so that some matters at hand can be attended to,create housing for the homeless,(with security) build bigger and better soup kitchens ( here is where the churches come in ) have state wide fund raisers for the needy, bring in more Goodwill centers for donated clothing,BE CREATIVE...make it happen, Bangor,your state sure isn't affraid to take money,how about giving some back...!!! Remember Margaret Thatcher ? listen to her sometime...!!! If you don't nip this homeless epidemic in the bud, it WILL blossom into a real big boil on the hind quarter of progress...!!! Cmon Bangor, lets have a reality check....NOW :-) call a spade a spade & deal with it.......!

Still a Mainer at heart & concerned for its well being.....Skooter

8:35 pm>I see ya are right on top of things again today.

If you can read you ought to be feeling pretty foolish

Oh wait you can read

so what is your excuse for sounding so ignorant and stupid

Could it be a complete lack of Gods Spirit.

I still want to be a fly on the wall

Come Your Judgement DAY<<

A lot of good stuff here today

It is inspiring to see so much compassion

If you are a bigot to the needy

Here is your NUT and YOU know where to Stick IT<<

mikeyrosebud: You make a lot of sense. It is called greed....what goes on in this world, all too often, and in many places. But, not all churches are big mega-churches and well-off. Some struggle to keep going; many really good churches are in that position. There are a lot of churches that help with, among other things, food....in the form of free dinners and food kitchens. One in particular is Hammond Congregational Church in Bangor (a welcoming, affirming church.) There is much that they do to put their Christianity into action.

But, you are right....there is much to despair of....people going hungry, not being able to make ends meet. There are many who are not greedy and just want to make a decent living for themselves and their families, and the opportunity to do that. Those are the people that one really feels for.

The comments have taken a turn for the worst.

Now it's turned into a contest with the theme, "How I was homeless" followed by a long narrative.

I agree with you captainlady, im suprised the moderator has been letting them go through, she just posted too above you

Having lived in that general area of town I for one am disgusted with this story. Passing by the Homeless Shelter on almost a daily basis whether it be going to/from work or when running by it's the same old thing day in and day out. Save your sob stories, if I remember correctly and I'm sure I do there was a study that came out 2-3 years ago that said 70% of homeless people in the State of Maine PREFER TO BE HOMELESS. I have yet to encounter one person at the homeless shelter that sincerely and truly needs/wants help and sincerely want to get ahead. Any encounter I have had with any homeless person on any level has done nothing to show me otherwise. Most just want to live a care-free life, no responsibilty, no worries and no one telling them what to do. So when you run a story like this around the holdays is it supposed to pull on my heart string?? Think again. I'm tired of the harassment when passing by the Shelter, tired of the comments and drunks and/or sexual offenders at the Public Library. I'm tired of the fact i can't allow my daughter to go to the YMCA/YWCA by herself or with friends due to the fact their are SO many undesirables running around that area. I'm tired of being accosted by homless people whether it be downtown Bangor or the outlying streets when running/walking. I'm tired of my home being broken into 2 times in the past year of which I have no doubt a homeless person. Homeless people ALWAYS have enough $ for cigarettes and alcohol some even have a cell phone yet no home and no desire to obtain a place to stay because they know somehow, some way the Great City of Bangor and taxpayer $ will pay. Save the sad stories, we all make choices in life and a majority of those people CHOOSE to be that way and thats a fact. It's not the hand you're dealt that makes you the person you are it's how you respond to the hand you're dealt . the United Way came to my place of work 1 month ago and shows us a dvd of a person helped by United Way who had nothing and now is on the way to leading a very productive life. How come I never see or hear of these stories? Or these people? We only hear of the homeless kid, man or woman and their sad story when they just choose not to better themselves. I am not slamming the homeless people as much as I am slamming stories like this one that try to play on the sympathies of unknowing people. It is late and I have to go to bed, no doubt I will see homeless people making the trek from ARC(hopehouse) down Hammond St to Homeless Shelter at about 6:00 am in the morning while I in the mean time must keep all cars and garage and house locked up so I do not get ripped of again, then we'l all see the homeless people make the trek from the homeless shelter back down Hammond St to ARC roughly about 6 pm at night, aint life great???! Keep your sad stories to yourselves, they get what they get.

we are all connected.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWP2b70MmUw

ode to the little things

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6U6JoNuNidI

save me

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00RTPn78VhE

“People are told to come here,” the chief told councilors last week. “In some cases, they are given a bus ticket.” Do them a favor, give them all a bus ticket to Orlando before it gets any colder.

noneofyourbusiness....all I am saying ...if you are correct in your post that 70% of homeless people want to stay homeless.....let's try to help the other 30% who aren't homeless by choice. I'm not for handouts but I do believe in helping those who just hit bottom and need help climbing out. Especially when there is children involved.

more guns

more nuclear warheads

more nuclear warheads

"Allahu Akbar".

noneofyourbusiness...most people who are homeless don't want to be homeless. There are a few who prefer to sleep outside over going to a shelter, but those people often have serious mental illness and simply have a difficult time being around other people or they don't trust people because in the past they have been hospitalized and put on meds with very nasty side effects. My family certainly didn't want to be homeless but we were. It was nothing that we did that caused it, either. Fortunately we had the resources and ability to manage the situation so that it wasn't terribly unpleasant, but not all people have those resources. There are no family shelters in Bangor and no shelters will take pets, so we couldn't have gone to a shelter regardless of if there were one available. Currently, if a family ends up homeless and don't have the means to pay for a place to stay the town they last lived in is required to put them up in a motel. Many of the small towns don't have the funds to do that, which is why many are sent to Bangor. What is the most frustrating for me is that I drove past Park Woods transitional housing a few days ago, which is specifically for homeless families and there are so many of those apartments empty. I saw three empty units just in one building of 4 units. The town of Bangor could save some money if they utilized one of the large empty buildings in town as a family shelter. It would be far cheaper in the long run rather than paying out the ear for a motel room for homeless families. Heck, they should let the Homeless Shelter use one of the larger buildings so they can add more beds. If homeless people were in shelters they would also be getting other services to help them put their lives back together.

As for the person talking about homeless people being able to obtain alcohol...some of them HAVE to because if a late stage alcoholic tries to quit drinking cold turkey they CAN DIE. Cigarettes are actually more addictive than heroin, so people will collect cans and bottles and dig for change to get cigarettes and alcohol. Just because they have addictions doesn't mean they don't need food, shelter and warm clothing. It's not like you can go get a job when you don't have an address or a way to be reached or a place to shower and wash your clothes so you aren't dirty and don't smell bad. It's very easy to say what you THINK homeless people should do but unless you have actually been in that situation you have no clue what you are talking about.

I did a paper back on homeless when i was in college. I talked to and interview 5 homeless people and they all preferred to be homeless. One wanted to be homeless who has been at the arc for 6 years because he only gets 876.00 a month for sss. He doesnt even get enough to buy beer and cigarettes. Another wanted to be homeless due to landords dont get along with him. Another one wanted to be homeless just because he thought it was cool. And the fourth one i interviewed said he was homeless because he was 34 and got kicked out of mamas house. Wonder why. And the last one just said he got homeless because his house burnt(which by the way he burnt it but only got 3 days in the county) He was hoping to get insurance to move out of the area. Didnt work. Portland has the greates homeless community. Been there, witnessed it. It wasnt too hard for the reporter to get pictures of these people. The pines is in back of Univeristy College of Bangor. Great place i hear. But that is my side. Have a great day ya all, hopefully the moderator dont delete this one, right chersully, speaking of it where is your alter ego karenlite now a days

8:12am wrote<>“People are told to come here,” the chief told councilors last week. “In some cases, they are given a bus ticket.” Do them a favor, give them all a bus ticket to Orlando before it gets any colder."

I see ya are right on top of things again today.

If you can read you ought to be feeling pretty foolish

Oh wait you can read

so what is your excuse for sounding so ignorant and stupid

Could it be a complete lack of Gods Spirit.

I still want to be a fly on the wall

Come Your Judgement DAY<<

A lot of good stuff here today

It is inspiring to see so much compassion

BUT<<

If you are a bigot to the needy

Here is your NUT and YOU know where to Stick IT<<

Oh BTW 8:12<>Here is YOUR Ticket

Now You have been Sent Far Far Away<<

Shawn Yardly says he comes to the table without a solution... Let me see if I can help.

The national statistics say that up to 30 percent of homeless adults were once foster children. That because there is a disconnect between foster children and their families, there is less likelihood that young adults (who have been foster children) can "return home" during an economic downturn.

Maybe part of the answer is to pay foster families WILLING to repatriate their former foster children (say to age 25) during times of economic distress. Many of my foster children have returned home for brief periods over the years, out of work, between jobs, or seeking help in finding a new direction. All have moved on voluntarily.. (it may be the mandatory 11 PM bedtime.)

Maybe for some families part of the answer is to give Banks a tax exemption on foreclosed property if those banks do not toss the family out. Maybe we (the tax payers) could even manage to pay the banks nominal rent for foreclosed properties and use those properties for families who could then stay together perhaps avoiding foster care and future homelessness for the children.

With property values declining, maybe the city, or some official entity could purchase one of the deteriorating motels.

As a long term solution, we need (as a society) an "employer of last resort" a place where anyone can get work anytime. In Worcester Massachusetts the agency was "Peak-Load" where "employees" were paid to show up at a warehouse at 8AM, and they would wait there until 5PM.Employers were "incentivized" to hire these people as "day laborers, but if jobs were not available the "workers" were paid to sit in the warehouse awaiting them. When jobs were available trucks would come, and the foreman would point to people and say "You you, you and you in the red van" then you would be taken off to work in auto recycling yards, restaurant kitchens landscaping crews, moving companies, or other ventures. It wasn't easy work, and it encouraged people to "move on" but many people, including me were hired full time by the employers for whom they had worked "day rate". The city found this program was MUCH cheaper than "local aid" and also that people were moved from debit to credit in a short period.

The only problem was that people who lacked the ability to arrive at 8 AM sober, relatively hygienic, and ready to work were still outside the loop.

From a personal perspective this program also left "workers" with their pride intact. We had "taken" nothing that we did not earn with our sweat.

When Mobil Oil was an independent company, they discovered that from a business standpoint it was cheaper to pay to "treat" substance abusers than to fire them and begin again with a new employee. Mobil put together a team of people therapists, employee coaches, and human resource workers and began a substance abuse treatment program for their addicted employees. over 80% of the participants finished the program and kept their jobs. The Study of the program by NYU found that the success rate was strongly linked to employee loyalty to a company that "cared" about them. This says to me that we are NEVER going to end the homeless problem with some of the attitudes displayed on this thread.

11:53>Now there is a fine waste of a College Degree

Mr Black and White His-Self

The God Almighty Coronadrinker

The Great Thinker of this Century>Yep No Chit he Is<<

With all that's been said here, no one has said how to send the homeless shelter a donation of money. Anyone know?

Boy ,you sure can tell the Democrats from the Republicans and the liberals from the ones that just don't give a crap about anybody or anything....I sure am glad they don't live next door to me. And I do not believe the comments have taken a turn for the worse, it's people offering their opinion,and whether you like it or not,these opinions and suggestions should be respected and considered,this is how this country should be,people working to make a better community through ideas and careful planning and projects funded by the people for the people. It's the negative,egotistical,self centered attitudes that have put this country in the shape it is in, along with GREED,and negative attitude. I DO believe that we still have the constitutional privilege of FREEDOM OF SPEECH,and the right to offer opinions,right or wrong,for or against a given situation, and I for one respect them all and I understand also that you can;t heal a broken arm with a band aid,and that there will always be peole that choose a path that no one can change or alter,BUT not all have chosen the homeless route,take a good look around,what is the unemployment rate in Maine? let alone the rest of the country,how are good peole that are at their wits end,and forced to be homeless,can't find work because there is none (with cutbacks and businesses leaving the country at a staggering rate) supposed to maintain a home,raise a family,enjoy the American dream, pay bills, when there is no recourse but to give up and hit the streets. There are a lot of great people out there that just need a jump start,even enough to clean up a credit card debt,juts that alone would keep a lot of people in their homes and off th estreets. We have all made bad decisions,overspent,and put ourselves in harms way (including me) but do some homeless people have the right to want a new start? why not they ar ehuman and we do live in America, the richest country in the world....at least I thought it was. In closing, I understand you can't heal the world,but together we can make a difference,it's called making an effort,and being heard. How about some input from those who make the decisions in Augusta.....How about it Susan,Olympia and John what are your views ???????

upeaster wrote:

"... no one has said how to send the homeless shelter a donation of money. Anyone know? "

Shaw House. 136 Union Street Bangor, ME 04401 PH: (207) 941-2875 info@shawhouse.org.

Acadia Recovery Community Acadia Hospital 268 Stillwater Avenue Bangor ME PH:(207) 973-6100 | TTY: 973-6142

Bangor Area homeless Shelter 263 Main Street Bangor, Maine 04401 PH:(207) 945-9032

"Manna Soup Kitchen, 180 Center St., Bangor, 04401 PH: (207) 990-2870

There is also the "United Way of Eastern Maine" which sponsors three of the above organizations (They are in the phone book) BUT giving to them is inefficient as 40% of your contribution will go to administrative costs. Personally I like the "drop off sandwiches" or pay Manna method.

Well electra at least i can say i have a bachelors degree and very proud of it. thank you probably more than you have

HarryHSnyderIII 1:07 PM~ Thank you for the information.

Those who give money for cancer should ask how much of their money goes to the big wigs. Most of them hoard their money too, with very little going toward those who need it. (Just like The United Way of Eastern Maine). That's another issue that should be addressed.

This situation is being caused largely by the demise of the forest products industry, which we basically let slip away. Problem is, we didn't come up with a replacement before we let it go.

David889327 wrote:

"This situation is being caused largely by the demise of the forest products industry, which we basically let slip away. Problem is, we didn't come up with a replacement before we let it go."

It is my opinion, that in some future time when the "New super power" records the history of the USA, it will be recorded that this country was the one and only nation in the history of the earth to "give away" without a fight its greatness, its manufacturing sector, and its core principles and beliefs.

While we are fighting about the definition of marriage our government is giving away the store...

Yes, Harry. It's like we've allowed ourselves to dwell in a state of semi paralysis.

Thank you, Harry. I don't want to give to the United Way after hearing this week how much money the CEO of this charity makes. It was criminal. I agree with you on the sandwich thing but live too far away to do that. I'll be sending money though. Happy Thanksgiving.

I agree upeaster. I didn't like giving to the United Way either but my employer, Jack Quirk, Jr., informed us on a annual basis that he expected 100% participation from his employees "or else." Just a terrible way to conduct business.

Wow i gave truth about where payments go, and it gets removed, hmmm bangor daily jealous

MaineSurvivor2 11/22/09 5:45 PM~ Now THAT IS CRIMINAL!!! No employer can demand it's employees donate or partake in anything beyond the work which they were hired to do. He could get into trouble for making a statement like that to his employees.

Makes one wonder if he's getting some kind compensation. How PATHETIC!!!

Those offended by this photo above the fold. . . it's real life folks and I think it was a very compelling photo and story. Great Job BDN!!

Don't worry homeless people you won't Freeze this winter, Soup kitchens will help you.....Oh,thats right..they can't, they're running low on supplys, maybe the homeless shelters.......Ooops NOPE,not them either ...but,not to worry, the Catholic Church and the Uber religious will Help you..NOT.....tooo bad, they gave all thier money to fight off Marriage Equality..Ohhh well.....s-o-r-r-eeeeee.

I think it's pretty sad that people are writing negative comments in regards to this growing epidemic... Try living your life night after night searching for where you are going to lay your head down... wondering where you're going to get fed and fending off rude stares and remarks from people who might possibly past judgement against you. You must ignite the change you want to see... it's really easy to be sitting in your comfy house online typing away at your opinions in the news.... GET OFF THE COUCH AND DO SOMETHING.... A group of people walk the streets every monday night from the Lighthouse Church of God in Orrington armed with backpacks filled with food and water.... we meet at pickering square and walk all thru downtown and the outskirts... always ending up at the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter... We see first hand the impact our conversations and food have upon these people... They are no different then you and I. Maybe life just hit them a bit harder.... they are hardworking, decent human beings who deserve to be treated with the uttmost respect... because I don't know about you... but I surely wouldn't be able to survive on the streets like they do and keep a smile as most do...

The only question that needs to be answered, right now, today, is "What did I do today to lessen the hardship of those around me?" Did I offer someone who is hungry a meal? Or someone who was sick some aid? Or, a child who was in dispair some hope? Give a blanket to someone who is cold? Until we do these things each to our own ability, we must stop gripping about "them" and "those". All we can change is "me". When you go to bed tonight ask yourself, "did I do enough today to help those less fortunate than I?"

mainemanabroad wrote:

"When you go to bed tonight ask yourself, "did I do enough today to help those less fortunate than I?"

Show me the whiskey stains on the floor

Show me the drunkard as he stumbles out the door

and I'll show you young man with so many reasons why

There but for fortune, go you or I.

The largest majorities of homeless (in order) are

Children who have aged out of foster care

Mental health patients who are denied or refuse treatment

untreated substance abusers

People who are at or near the poverty line who are evicted, unable to make rent, or who can't qualify for State aid.

you are exactly true Harry but that doesn't mean that they don't deserve to be treated the way you would want to be treated. How do you know their story? A vast majority of people I have met have been dealing with abuse of a spouse/relative, poor living situations, no income, and or many many other sad stories. But still no one deserves to be living on the streets every night....

Don't worry homeless people you won't Freeze this winter, Soup kitchens will help you.....Oh,thats right..they can't, they're running low on supplies, maybe the ever over-flowing homeless shelters......Ooops NOPE,not them either ...but,not to worry, Bishop Malone & the Catholic Church and their Ultra religious types will Help you, ooops ..NOT.....tooo bad, they NEEDED & GAVE ALL thier EXTRA CASH$$$ to Fight off Marriage Equality......Ohhh well.....Jesus will help you, Just pray harder...$$$$$........better yet call NOM headquarters in Princeton NJ Collect..they'll help you......what's that..no? Oh well..........s-o-r-r-eeeeee.

Thankyou BDN for this article.

As I was pondering possible solutions to this social quagmire,

It reminded my of a guest column that was printed a few months back.

"Take a fresh look at managing resources"

By Nancy Oden

http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/105781.html

I think ideas in the article could go a long way in throwing a wrench in the endless circle of poverty and homelessness.

We definetly need to bring back more of the philosophy of

"Give me a fish, feed me for a day,

Teach me how to fish, feed me for a lifetime."

thank you SO much for the link blueskiesaboveme. a men.. and women and children:)

Give them a fish and they eat for a day...Teach them to fish and they will eat for a lifetime. Not the exact words, but the meaning is the same. In PA there is a two year limit, I believe, for being on welfare. You are provided help to get you on your feet, for they had so long a program that only bred generations of welfare. Provide child care, only to work, not to stay at home to have more children. Provide a home, but not entirely free, perhaps the upkeep on the grounds, etc. Train people to do the work they excel at, not in something they will fail at. None of us are born with certain skills or shown the common sense way of doing things to help us manage money. Educate people so that they feel accomplished to move forward. In the shelters, send people to teach the homeless the ways to get on their feet. At this time in their lives, it matters not how they got there, but that they need help not do repeat those mistakes and get on their feet again. How many of you had to take a helping hand from your parents? Grandparents? It is the same thing for from a stranger or family, we all have needed, will need help. God most surely would appreciate that from all of us without any guff. "After each knock, the Inn Keeper let in an old woman who needed shoes, a traveler who needed a meal, and a child who needed warmth" "As he sat down at his meager table, he prayed to the Lord asking why he had set a table, put out shoes, and had a roaring fire for the Lord to visit him" "He then heard the Lord's voice, outloud in the room that said "I knocked three times and you answered". "I was the old woman,whom you gave the shoes" "I was the traveler whom you fed" "I was the child whom you kept warm". You never know, and truly, we should come together and do something, not let it fester and go on for years and years. Take the first step, leaders, and do something to start the ball rolling by putting a plan together to help your fellow man/women/children.

I moved to Florida from Pittsfield last year. I was in the house building business and we all know what happened to that industry. I figured Florida would be warmer when I became homeless. There are no jobs anywhere and the actual unemployment numbers are way higher than anyone in the government is letting on. The elderly are forced to stay in the workforce longer because of the cost of medications and that means that the jobs that would normally be opening up for the next generation are not there. The kids only defense is more education and more debt in the hope that it separates them from the sea of job applicants. The colleges are doing a great job of recruiting kids and scaring them into thinking that if they don't have a degree they are not going to be able to land an entry level position on the MacDonalds team. In the last three decades we have all watched factories close down and move from Maine to some foreign country. When you keep closing down lumber mills and shoe shops and replacing them with Walmarts and telemarketing centers, the rooster will eventually come home to roost. Greed will be the driving force behind putting us all out on the street. The ones that are the most willing to swallow there pride or lower the bar will be the last ones out on the street, but on the street they will be too. When a handful of the very meanest money grubbers among us have all the money and the rest have none, then it will be time to water the tree of revolution again and redistribute the wealth. Then two hundred years from now a handful of the people with the biggest egos and lowest integrity will have all the money again and the cycle repeats. Those that do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it and folks, we are slooooow learners.

Does it really matter why someone is homeless? Does the reason make them less hungry? Cold? Sick? Tomorrow is the time for discussion, research and cures for these problems. Today is the time for us to ease the suffering of others, to the best of our ability.

At this holiday season, if you are at all able, reach out to someone in need (contribute a little at one of the many Salvation Army kettles,etc, etc.) Even "small" gestures add up.

dgermond wrote "In PA there is a two year limit, I believe, for being on welfare."

Well I lived in PA for fifteen years and can report, without reservation, that their system is failing and failing with great expense. As with most public cures, the time to develop the plan and impliment the programs took longer than the economy could tolerate. By the time these well planned out and well intentioned programs got into place the economy had changed so much for the worse, that no jobs were available, even for those who successfully completed the "Workfare" programs. Limits were extended, loopholes exploited, and the programs were relaxed to the point that they are no longer functional.

The difficulty, as with all social planning, is the need to anticipate problems that may occur two or three years from now and put in place programs to address these predicted problems today. It's like asking people to pay a tax on a product that hasn't been invented yet, but is expected soon. And when this future planning is successful and the problem is avoided, we complain that we were taxed for nothing, because the problem never occurred.

Don't worry homeless people you won't Freeze this winter, Soup kitchens will help you.....Oh,thats right..they can't, they're running low on supplies, maybe the ever over-flowing homeless shelters......Ooops NOPE,not them either ...but,not to worry, Bishop Malone & the Catholic Church and their Ultra religious types will Help you, ooops ..NOT.....tooo bad, they NEEDED & GAVE ALL thier EXTRA CASH$$$ to Fight off Marriage Equality......Ohhh well.....Jesus will help you, Just pray harder...$$$$$........better yet call NOM headquarters in Princeton NJ Collect..they'll help you......what's that..no? Oh well..........s-o-r-r-eeeeee.

Same ole' stuff...DA

I have tried hard not to comment on this story. But many of the words I have read have been so harsh. I want to ask some of you. Have you ever tried to go for a job interview smelling like you haven’t had a shower or bath in weeks? Do you really think you will land the job?

I hear about drinking, drugs and cigarettes. I ask you. If you were homeless, do you know how you would react? Could it possibly be an actuality that you would turn to booze thinking what the heck do you have to loose or maybe tomorrow wont come?

In these comments I see very little input as to resolution. Just complaints.

I would say myself, gosh pardon me for having a thought. But what about reimbursement.

Ok, what do I mean by that. Most people that are homeless tend to register with a homeless shelter waiting their turn. Fine. Now what if part of the registration process included where the person last resided. Get my drift? If the state were to pass and get backing on this idea we could go ahead and charge for reimbursement from the municipality instate or the other states that may have paid for these people to take a ticket to come up here. Placing the burden back in their pockets for taking the easy way out.

So another words if someone comes from New York being promised greener pastures then the state of New York would owe Maine a reimbursement for Maine taking care of this person. Does that sound silly or Logical?

Every community is given funds each year and they shed the expenses in what becomes an imbalance to others. Wouldn’t this idea keep the balance in order? I am sure the homeless will be just to willing to tell you where they come from. No?

With these funds, well then if they want to place us in the business of taking care of the homeless we could start a program in this state which allows these folks to help in cleaning and keeping Bangor up to snuff. So to speak. They could also re-learn to become responsible within their community from the funds from other counties or states for being sent here. Yes this would need to be a state controlled program. Pardon the scare of politics being needed but in some cases it’s really a good thing.

There are some homeless people out there that are at heart good people who fell through the cracks. I am not going to judge any of them. They could be you or I.

Now, instead of complaining about the problem, I must ask. Do you have a solution? I just passed one your way…..

Disgusted is posting this from New Jersey. He should come up here to Maine and help the homeless.