This week, we discussed different homeless organizations and what they were doing to help, and what made them unique from other organizations. I remember one of us shared on the Coalition for the Homeless, which is an advocacy group. They focused on the right to have a home and specifically the right to vote, which is not a main concern we see in many organizations. One unique thing I found about them is they have a mobile soup kitchen that travels to 35 different sites. I feel this is very beneficial to help combat homelessness on a wider scale. I shared about Solid Ground, an organization in Seattle who’s primary fight is against racism. They believe institutional racism leads to homelessness (more commonly for people of color) and they bring awareness to that issue. They also offer varieties of shelter, donate food and refer banks to get food, and prioritize credit counseling. Believing that racism is the root of homelessness is an idea I had not previously heard, so I appreciate that different perspective. Lastly, an organization in Austria was discussed, but this one did not seem ideal. Austrians could get free food, but foreigners could not. The races were also divided when dining. The homeless were not appreciative of the food they were getting, and demanded something more appetizing. I fully support helping those in need, but I also believe you need to be appreciative of what you are getting. If someone is willing to help you, offer thanks instead of rudeness. It makes me wonder how homeless generally behave in other countries.

What kind of behavioral experiences have you guys had with homeless you have encountered? Do you feel it is justified to not be very pleasant when you are in a situation such as homelessness, such as those in the Austrian shelter?