The group presentations were interesting. Each book had its own particular way of conveying some part of the homeless experience. I really enjoyed reading ” helping kids move from homelessness to hope Almost Home”, by Kevin Ryan and Tina Kelley. It was very interesting to see the lives of six different homeless youth. The other presentation that got my attention was homeless mothers. We have so many different concepts and stereotypes of ‘good’ mothers that we tend not to appreciate those who are in worse conditions and yet manage to sacrifice what seems to be seen negatively by the rest of society. Like giving away your child because you are afraid to harm them. It takes a lot for a person to understand that their children are or may be in harm even if it means by the mother themselves. Although it is sad, it seriously is one of the best solutions. I also liked the topic from the side of the social workers stance. It is hard not to get attached with people whom you see day to day or know there story. I have always wanted to help those who are less privileged even with the little that I have. Time and time again these social workers have to confront being the person who denies the help to others because you cannot please everyone. It is hard for them as well. I feel that they go through a mental break down as well because its hard to deny help. I want to read that book, I will get a better insight and with the help of what the group presented I feel that I will be able to really understand the book.

This past week has been very eye opening. From the readings and the specialist to the data exercises. I was not aware of the counts that are done for homeless people. That in itself was intriguing. Although it is nice to know that each county counts there homeless people there are lots of flaws in the counts I believe. Like the specialist said each county either puts time and dedication or they simply go out and make assumptions of how many homeless people are out in the streets or what not. Another issue is also the definition of the term homeless and how broad it truly is and what is defined as being homeless to the county. I think people living in cars, friends houses, in shelters, and those in the street should all be counted for. As to how you measure the amount would be very difficult. I like the outreach method where other citizens of the community volunteer and giving them certain routs in order to obtain the best possible number. The one method I think is favorable and most county’s should do is have some homeless citizens themselves help out with the count. Being a homeless person and living on and off the streets can give you a better insight on the amount of homeless there are. Like mentioned in class in Redlands itself there doesn’t seem to be very much homeless out in the street, perhaps they are in shelters or are hidden in abandon buildings. Homelessness varies and not all county’s in my opinion are putting much effort, which they should because its an issue that is always brought up but there isn’t a lot of people in the county’s putting much effort into solving hunger and homelessness.

I was utterly impressed with the ignorance of individuals. The film we watched last class got me thinking of how our society is built. Where do people get certain beliefs and stereotypes of homelessness? The film got me really upset. I saw the faces of many of my peers. The film opened my eyes greatly. How does America, or more specifically Santa Monica expect to decrease the number of homeless people when they refuse to help. What really triggered my thoughts and opinions was the political side of homelessness. I was truly surprised that a homeless person can run for mayor. I think I have been brain washed about things of that sort. This got me thinking about how people make assumptions of who can have leadership roles in America. I was sad that the guy didn’t win the elections but he proved a point. Many of the stories of the homeless people were in fact of stories of people that had jobs and unfortunately lost their belongings. Santa Monica to me is so different now. The way I perceive the city. I found it ridiculous that they want to arrest those people who are helping those who are suffering from hunger and homelessness. The city should be glad that there are people that are trying to help those homeless get out of the streets and simply try to survive. If they ever pass the law of considering that a felony I would be extremely surprised and upset. People should extend their hand and help fellow citizens. We are all humans and evening thinking that homeless people should die is inhumane. What makes me or anyone else superior to others. NOTHING.