The face of homelessness in Janesville
More on homelessness
Click here for more information on homelessness in Janesville from WISC Channel 3 in Madison.
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A guest at the GIFTS shelter at First Baptist Church reads a book on his cot.
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Everything a local homeless man owns sits on a chair next to his bed at the GIFTS homeless shelter at the First Baptist Church in Janesville.
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Guests at the GIFTS shelter at First Baptist Church pass the time with a game of rummy.
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GIFTS workers and homeless men hold hands in a circle and say grace before dinner at First Baptist Church in Janesville.
JANESVILLE — Men of all backgrounds, races and ages held hands in a circle in the church common room.
They shut their eyes as a volunteer prayed.
“Lord, we know that everything we have comes from you.”
They raised their voices in a heartfelt “Amen” as they broke for dinner of spaghetti, salad and garlic bread.
It might not seem like these 15 men had much to be thankful for, but that’s not true, several said. They had a warm place to sleep and a hearty dinner on a chilly November night.
“To have a warm, safe place is pretty much a godsend,” said Mike Burdick.
Before GIFTS Men’s Shelter, homeless single men didn’t have anywhere to go in Janesville. Several GIFTS residents said they used to sleep on the streets when things got desperate. One said he slept next to the pool vent at Franklin Middle School to feel the warm air.
The shelter rotates among churches each week from fall to spring.
The Gazette talked to some of the men at First Baptist Church on a recent night.
Mike Burdick, 64
Burdick had come to the shelter two weeks earlier after his options ran out, he said.
“It was this or sleeping in a ditch or jail this year,” he said.
He used to work in industry, but medical problems forced him out. It’s been seven or eight years since he had a job, he said.
“Hell, I’ve been turned down for phone soliciting,” he said. “I think that’s when I quit looking.”
He lives on Social Security but pays about two-thirds of his income to back child support, he said. He goes to HealthNet once a month for heart medication.
But Burdick, who grew up between Edgerton and Stoughton, doesn’t seem unhappy. He smiles and laughs often, revealing a gap in his front teeth over a long, scraggly beard. He takes bike trips in summer. He spends a lot of time at the library and reads two or three books a day, he said.
He’s impressed with the generosity of organizations such as GIFTS and HealthNet, he said.
“I really think Janesville should be proud of the way people stepped up,” he said. “There’s a lot more of us (homeless people) out there than shows.”
Danny (not his real name), 65
Danny was walking and hitchhiking his way from New York to Salt Lake City to spend the winter with friends, he said. It was his second night at GIFTS.
“I’m just passing through,” he said.
When asked how he ended up homeless, he said in a gentle voice, “It’s hard to remember.”
James Charles, 24
Charles was staying at the shelter since getting out of jail the day before. He’s been in and out of shelters, jail and prison since 2007, he said.
He was born in Washington, D.C., and moved to the Janesville area around 2004 to be with his fiancé, whom he met on the Internet.
“When I first came out here, I had plenty of jobs,” he said.
The couple have stayed in shelters in Rockford, Ill., Janesville and Beloit, he said.
Charles has been found guilty of battery, disorderly conduct and retail theft in Wisconsin.
Right now, he’s focused on finding his two sons, both in Child Protective Services custody, he said. He said he had “no idea” where his fiancé was that night.
Leonard Sherrier, 55
Sherrier has been coming to the shelter since it opened two years ago, he said.
“These people are great,” he said. “Open arms, open heart, open hands.”
He was born and raised in Janesville and did OK until he ran into health problems, he said. He has diabetes and elbow trouble, among other things.
He used to stay with family members, but “after a while, you’re not welcome,” he said.
He thinks he could return to work if he could get healthy. But he can’t get healthy until he gets medical treatment. He can’t afford medical treatment until he gets a job and insurance.
“Some people choose this life,” he said. “I would rather be on my own, taking care of myself.”
Martin Haberman, 21
With his messy blonde hair, glasses and brown hooded sweatshirt, Haberman looked too young to be on his own.
He and his 18-year-old brother had been coming to the shelter for four weeks, ever since they lost their apartment in Milton. He was fired from his job at the ethanol plant there after a safety accident, he said.
“I got applications out all over Janesville,” he said.
Haberman, a Footville native, doesn’t talk to his parents, but he often visits his older brother, who lives in Janesville. He became addicted to cocaine in high school but eventually kicked the habit and got his diploma, he said.
“I do have one thing to say to high schoolers,” he said. “Stay away from drugs … I learned the hard way.”
District tries new strategies as homelessness rises
Educators know it’s hard for kids to focus on multiplication tables if they don’t know where they’re going to sleep at night.
But at the same time, education is the best chance for those kids to escape poverty.
That’s why school districts do all they can to meet the needs of homeless students, said Ann Forbeck, homeless education program coordinator for the Janesville School District.
The Janesville district knows of 180 students who have been homeless at some point this year. That’s already about half the number of students that experienced homelessness in all of last year. The number will continue to grow as families lose and find housing during the year.
“A couple of years ago it would often be the same families who were homeless and then not homeless and then would become homeless again,” Forbeck said. “I think we’re seeing some new families, definitely some middle-class families, which we hadn’t seen before.”
Federal law requires school districts to provide homeless students with school supplies, free lunch and transportation to and from school if the students end up outside their school’s attendance area.
But Janesville is trying to go further, Forbeck said.
Last year, the district started a tutoring program for homeless elementary students and a mentor program for at-risk middle school students.
The district also has started “graduation coaching” for at-risk high school students. Social workers will monitor the students’ attendance and grades and help them plan the next step in their lives, whether that be college, the military or a job, Forbeck said.
Just 60 percent of homeless Janesville seniors graduated in 2007-08, compared to 86.6 percent of all Janesville seniors. That number improved to 71 percent last year.
“It’s not as high as we want it to be,” Forbeck said.
Many organizations have donated warm clothes, snow boots, toiletries and even bowling games to homeless students, Forbeck said.
Jessica Grandt, social worker at Wilson Elementary School, surveyed parents to find out families’ needs. Wilson has the highest rate of low-income students in the district.
“Parents identified 191 needs that they had, ranging anything from winter coats to eye exams,” she said.
Sometimes homeless students also need psychological help because of the stress they go through, Grandt said.
Some are embarrassed about their situation and withdraw, while others act out. Many have trouble focusing on schoolwork.
“We’re here to educate, but we still have to address all the other things that these kids are dealing with,” she said.
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Social service providers across Rock and Walworth counties worry that the problem of homelessness will get worse before it gets better.
They wonder what will happen when the snow flies and when unemployment and other benefits run out for laid-off workers.
The average size of families staying at Twin Oaks Homeless Shelter in Darien has grown, said Marc Perry, Community Action director of planning and development. More families than usual have tried doubling up with relatives before coming to the shelter, he said.
“Even your closest family members, if the space is meant for four people and there’s nine people in it, at some point those people are going to have to leave,” he said.
House of Mercy homeless center in Janesville is finding the same thing, Director Ron Del Ciello said.
The shelter has relaxed its formerly strict 30-day limit because residents are having so much trouble finding jobs that can help them get homes. Many are leaving the shelter to stay with relatives instead of getting places of their own, he said.
The shelter’s waiting list used to fluctuate as residents came and went, but now it’s holding steady at 10 to 15 families, he said.
GIFTS Men’s Shelter hasn’t seen much, if any, increase from last fall, board members said. But that could be because of the warm weather this year, they said.
Dec 23, 2009 at 5:50 p.m.
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Hey GIFTS, thanks for turning the Hedberg Library into the day shelter for your overnight "clients." I've been down there several times in the past few weeks and that's where most of them are--chatting, sleeping, snoring, swearing, and smelling and generally creeping the other patrons out! Odd, but they certainly don't seem to looking for WORK!
Dec 6, 2009 at 12:08 p.m.
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Mike F and Kraut60, you get "it". May your good deeds, thoughts and words come back to you tenfold. :)
Dec 6, 2009 at 11:30 a.m.
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The golden rule predates the New Testament and the Old Testament (the Hebrew Bible) and exists in other belief systems that have nothing to do with judeo-christinity. To some degree it even predates the humans species. Note the reciprocal care exhibited by other species.
The golden rule is a phenomenon of biological and social evolution and is independent of religion and the belief in god. Instead, promulgants of religion and the belief in god co-opted the golden rule for benevolent and malevolent purposes.
Dec 6, 2009 at 11:18 a.m.
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"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you". Doesn't HAVE to be taken in the religious text (even though it comes from the Bible). It's just a really nice thought that would make the world a much better place.
Dec 6, 2009 at 10:47 a.m.
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"86% of American adults identified as Christians in 1990 and 76% in 2008"--so, more and more people are slowly coming to their senses and there may just be a glimmer of hope to shed the mythology of a 2000 year old Jewish sect that was based heavily on the existing mythology of the now 4000 year old Jewish traditions, eh? Great!
Dec 4, 2009 at 1:32 p.m.
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Get a life people!
Dec 4, 2009 at 10:03 a.m.
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James 5:
20Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
Dec 4, 2009 at 9:57 a.m.
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James 3 KJV:
13Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
Dec 4, 2009 at 9:42 a.m.
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James 1: (KJV)
2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Dec 4, 2009 at 8:32 a.m.
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Any christian please take a shot at this:
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“Lord, we know that everything we have comes from you.”
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To believe that this were true wouldn't one need to also believe that the Lord did not provide for the 30,000 children under the age of 5 that die each day due to a lack of clean drinking water?
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Just would really like to know how you guys weigh this and things like the trinity, Hell vs love, ect in your mind, these seem like clear cut contradictions.
Dec 4, 2009 at 8:16 a.m.
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I don't know G - they may be gone for good this time. They seem to have coordinated thier efforts to avoid discussion of uncomfortable god related topics/questions.
Dec 3, 2009 at 5:26 p.m.
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But we should expect that soon one of the apostles will show up claiming that Paine hung out on a street corner preaching the Good News with a bullhorn.
Dec 3, 2009 at 5:23 p.m.
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Great quote.
Dec 3, 2009 at 4:28 p.m.
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Thomas Paine, in The Age of Reason, asked: "Is it more probable that nature should go out of her course, or that a man should tell a lie? We have never seen, in our time, nature go out of her course; but we have good reason to believe that millions of lies have been told in the same time; it is, therefore, at least millions to one, that the reporter of a miracle tells a lie."
Dec 3, 2009 at 4:20 p.m.
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86% of American adults identified as Christians in 1990 and 76% in 2008.
Dec 3, 2009 at 11:16 a.m.
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Acai, you have nothing substantial to offer here. Maybe you should go to college or something.
Dec 3, 2009 at 10:13 a.m.
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Exodus 21
20And if a man smite his servant, or his maid, with a rod, and he die under his hand; he shall be surely punished.
21Notwithstanding, if he continue a day or two, he shall not be punished: for he is his money.
22If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine.
23And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life,
24Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Beating Slaves is OK and killing a fetus is not the same as killing a man, so says god.
Dec 2, 2009 at 9:23 p.m.
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In history today:
On December 2, 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte is crowned Napoleon I. Pope Pius VII handed Napoleon the crown that the 35-year-old placed on his own head.
Should have bet on the St. Louis Rams.
Dec 2, 2009 at 2:33 p.m.
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What is christian like about NOT talking about the christian god or the bible or the actions god takes in the world?
Dec 2, 2009 at 1:53 p.m.
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What's the matter? You guys aren't happy unless you have someone to argue with in this blog everyday? Kudos to Kleej and Matt for being the better person. Very "Christian Like" ;)
Dec 2, 2009 at 1:37 p.m.
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Come on guys - doesn't the bible mandate that you shine the light upon us?
2 Corinthians 4
1Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
2But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
3But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
5For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
Dec 2, 2009 at 11:03 a.m.
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We really need to find some more christians. Matt and Kleej, sorry if our questions made you feel uncomfortable. Would you like for us to answer questions about reality and evolution? We won't shy away from follow up questions or accuse you of being bad people for asking tough questions.
Dec 2, 2009 at 10:32 a.m.
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It was never that difficult for a moderatly educated person to see that religion was a cause of hatred and conflict, and that it's maintenance depended on ignorance and superstition. Christopher Hitchens:God is not Great
Dec 2, 2009 at 10:24 a.m.
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"I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I should do and, WITH THE HELP OF GOD.....I WILL DO!!!"
Peace to all, and regardless of your faith or lacktherof, many blessings to you all and have a great Holiday season.
Dec 2, 2009 at 9:55 a.m.
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Kleej~ I'm right there with you. That's what I was counting on. I sent you a private message. You and I need to hook up, you won't believe what I've got going!
Dec 2, 2009 at 9:19 a.m.
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matthew, don't hold your breath waiting for me! Fish ain't bitin'!
Dec 2, 2009 at 8:50 a.m.
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Matt its ok - please feel free to go ahead I am very eager to hear your views. Also your views might be different from Kleej's.
Dec 2, 2009 at 7:49 a.m.
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Matthew...., for your edification, I reposted.
Hey, matttew516, your namesake in the bible, Matthew, says we should be Torah observant. Are you Torah observant?
And don't forget about this trinity business, what's the deal?
Dec 2, 2009 at 7:44 a.m.
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I'm waiting for you to go first here Kleej!
Dec 1, 2009 at 1:35 p.m.
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“Lord, we know that everything we have comes from you.”
.
To believe that this were true wouldn't one need to also believe that the Lord did not provide for the 30,000 children under the age of 5 that die each day due to a lack of clean drinking water?
.
Just would really like to know how you guys weigh this and things like the trinity, Hell vs love, ect in your mind, these seem like clear cut contradictions.
Dec 1, 2009 at 10:53 a.m.
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Hey, matttew516, your namesake in the bible, Matthew, says we should be Torah observant. Are you Torah observant?
And don't forget about this trinity business, what's the deal?
Dec 1, 2009 at 10:40 a.m.
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And what about the threat of eternal torment as a punishment for non-belief? How can that be consistant in your mind with a loving god?
Dec 1, 2009 at 10:16 a.m.
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gazettefan~ How comforting to hear that.
Dec 1, 2009 at 10:11 a.m.
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Did god make these impossible relationships AKA the trinity to test our faith? That god had a son who is also that same god so that he could kill his son/himself to sooth his own anger over the sin he knew would result from his own actions when he created the world (god is all knowing). Not sure where the holy ghost comes in, except that is all three and distinct as well.
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But if I don't believe than I suffer for eternity. Please help me to understand this.
Dec 1, 2009 at 10:09 a.m.
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By the way, Kleej and Matthew...., I work with nominal christian groups in the area too. We may all know each other.
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:49 a.m.
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Acai, how come they don't call it the Holy Ghost anymore, too spooky?
But seriously, so how many gods are there, three?
And, matthew..., you're supposed to be praying with Kleej right now, not emulating his hostility.
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:46 a.m.
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matt-- both?
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:42 a.m.
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acai~ you are referring to the father, the son and the holy spirit and not a certain someone's IQ, correct?
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:37 a.m.
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Gazettefan-- the trinity means THREE.
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:34 a.m.
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matthew, I consider it an honor. However, can you and I continue to pray for gazettefan in unison?
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:31 a.m.
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Kleej~ I am right there with ya! Wouldn't it be cool if gazettefan returned the favor?! This blogsite couldn't get that "lucky".
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:28 a.m.
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Thanks Kleej - I know about all kinds of people. I was just making an observation in that earlier statement. I'm over it as I wasn't exactly born yesterday. Thanks!
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:22 a.m.
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Kleej, though we'd like you discuss scripture here, we wouldn't decline your keeping your yap shut re: your hostility.
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:19 a.m.
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matthew...., you really know how to freshen up the English language. Any thoughts on the trinity?
Dec 1, 2009 at 9:19 a.m.
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prounion, I'm going to respectfully decline.
Dec 1, 2009 at 8:47 a.m.
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Kleej~ I think you've rested your case! Gazettefan is living in a fantasy world. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.
Dec 1, 2009 at 8:33 a.m.
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Kleej - I would welcome a civilized discussion of scripture but can we ask follow up questions?
Dec 1, 2009 at 8:32 a.m.
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Kleej et. al. again just excuses for your not being able to discuss scripture. Either you haven't read the bible or your poor reading skills keep you from comprehending it.
And as for psychology: you continue to manifest the defense mechanism of projection. You have nothing to offer but hostility. Accordingly, when christians suffer, it's almost always at the hands of other chrisitans.
Dec 1, 2009 at 8:05 a.m.
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gazettefan the official blog psychologist?! Does that mean I have to refer to him as "doc"???? Kleej great stuff!
Dec 1, 2009 at 7:21 a.m.
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kleej-- you'll get no argument with me regarding gazettefan. what a piece of work. Hey "gazettefan".......how many fingers am I holding up?!
Dec 1, 2009 at 12:53 a.m.
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matthew, I was one of those volunteers! We're going to have reveal our identities to one another now! We probably know each other.
Dec 1, 2009 at 12:06 a.m.
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SWISSCHICK in response to your post on Nov 24, 2009 at 2:03 p.m.
I would encourage you to pay a visit to Central Christian Church in Beloit where a couple of months ago, the church stepped up to host a Free HealthCare Clinic to over 3000 people in the stateline area who had no health coverage at all. They provided dental, medical, psychological services not to mention free clothing, food and family pictures for those who have NOTHING! 750 people stepped up to volunteer their services on a saturday because they CARE. Amazing how people find it so easy to condemn and criticize yet find it so hard to acknowledge the positive.
Nov 30, 2009 at 11:29 p.m.
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gazettefan, there is no civilized discussion of scripture with you. Get that through your head. You have no interest in it other than to argue with people who don't agree with you or simply don't care to argue at all. It bothers you that I choose not to play your little game which is why you feel compelled to cast your petty little stones at me. But, hey, I forgive you. (It's the Christian in me)
As far as swisschick goes, I'm sure she'll be able to sleep now knowing that you're a blog site psychologist and are capable of detecting people's emotions and intent without having any up close and human contact with the individual in question. It appears that you feel in your own mind that you're the 8th wonder of the world. I'd like to appease you on that, however, my strong bond to my Christian faith won't allow me to lie to you. So, I'll simply continue to pray for you.
Nov 30, 2009 at 9:49 p.m.
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Kleej, here is your post in question:
"swisschick, there's all kinds out there isn't there?? Truth is, life isn't always fair. Get over it."
I maintain that you were telling her, IN SO MANY WORDS, to shut up. And aren't christians like you suppose to correct the bad thoughts and bad behavior of others instead of telling someone else to just "get over" those "non-christian" thoughts and deeds? Proselytization is a christian creed.
Further, what's the point, benefit, and value of christianity if christians are just as evil, or whatever, as non-christians? Isn't the whole point of christianity that it has the moral or behavioral highground. But because everything that is wrong with humans is also wrong with christians, it's really just another collection of people manifesting a perverse form of the group instinct.
Remember: christianity is supposed to be the bulwark against bad behavior. And consider yourself: you don't want to have a civilized discussion of belief and scripture here, you only want to insult people.
Nov 30, 2009 at 8:08 p.m.
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swisschick, my point is, there's "front row" bad people everywhere, not just in the Christian world. My reference to life's not fair meant, it's NOT FAIR. I meant no offense by it, I was just making a point that it's just the way it is. I have to deal with just like you. Case & point, gazettefan decided to take it upon himself to give you a false statement about my intentions regardig my post to you earlier, stating I was telling you to "shut up". (Which wasn't the case at all) See, it's not fair that we have to deal with people like that day in and day out, but, hey, life's not fair! So, swisschick, I apologize to you if I offended you.
Nov 30, 2009 at 7:08 p.m.
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SwissChick, Kleej was telling you, in so many words, to shut up. Typical christian talk in response to a reasonable comment.
Nov 30, 2009 at 4:23 p.m.
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Kleej - RE: Your post of 11/28/09 2:11AM. I'm not sure how to take the last part of that post. Was that directed at my earlier post? Because it can kind of be taken a couple of different ways. :)
Nov 30, 2009 at 4:06 p.m.
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Kleej, and even though "he" made it simple, it's still too complicated for some people. That's why they can't respond to reasonable questions and comments about scripture.
It's complicated because "he" is the humans who created god, religion, and scripture. It's all very contradictory because the human experience is complex. So much so that some people find safety and comfort by living inside a small psychological box.
Nov 30, 2009 at 3:54 p.m.
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Kleej, "he" made it simple for you, and that's the problem. I'll bet the employment of your "people skills" doesn't include your religiosity.
Nov 30, 2009 at 2:49 p.m.
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gazettefan, it's not your job to question God. Your job is to live by the principles of the Ten Commandments. He made it simple for you. The "devil's in the details"! Oh, by the way, I make my living based on my people skills. I've done quite well actually. I don't build relationships in a blog site. I'll continue to pray for you.
Nov 30, 2009 at 1:08 p.m.
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Kleej, are you really claiming that the bulk of your input here has been positve. You show time and time again that you have no conversational skills.
What would you say if one of your charges asked you about why the bible says that a father should have his misbehaving children stoned.
Nov 30, 2009 at 9:16 a.m.
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Read God's word and you'd understand. People are fallen from birth. God sacrificed Jesus to take on that burden that he know's we all have.....we're human. And if you want my opinion, there's so many people, like yourself that are so busy looking for the negative in everything, they fail to see all the good they do in this world. I have many athiest friends who have been down on their luck over the past few years that have had hope put back in their lives by Christian people. Funny how things like that never come up in any of your posts.......
Nov 30, 2009 at 8:45 a.m.
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Kleej, even if you're talking about me, there's something promising in your last post: not all atheists are evil.
Nov 30, 2009 at 7:48 a.m.
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Yes, Kleej, but they don't have the benefit of christ. Why are there evil christians?
Nov 29, 2009 at 11:41 p.m.
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gazettefan, I see, as long as it's any negative thread to link to a Christian, you have no problem chiming in huh? You're not gonna believe this, but there's even evil non-Christian human beings in this world. Infact, I'd bet there's even one evil athiest that exists out there too........
Nov 28, 2009 at 10:57 a.m.
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what keeps people from being homeless is FAMILY.
Nov 28, 2009 at 10:13 a.m.
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Kleej, SwissChick makes a good point. What row do you sit in?
Nov 28, 2009 at 2:11 a.m.
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swisschick, there's all kinds out there isn't there?? Truth is, life isn't always fair. Get over it.
Nov 27, 2009 at 5:58 p.m.
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Sandman: Alot of the foreigners that you are refering to are very hard working, and yes, they are able to send money home. Alot of them pile as many of them as they can in an apartment and share the rent. I know this first hand since I knew alot of them personally. You cannot blame some of these people who are homeless. Especially nowadays, when people are forclosing on their homes because of job loss, high taxes and ridiculous spending by our government, local, state and nationwide! You will probably see more and more homeless as time goes by if good paying jobs are not created soon.
Nov 25, 2009 at 12:56 p.m.
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As adults we're expected to be mature enough to make our own decisions. Some of us make very bad ones, others wrong ones. Sometimes it isn't our decisions that land us in trouble but a result of circumstance. Whatever the reason someone is homeless, I wont judge them without knowing them. And it may be unfortunate to be taken advatage of, but I wont look away, either. And just because a problem has no foreseeable solution, that doesn't mean I shouldn't try to help. As we enjoy thanksgiving, think less about the thanks and more about the giving. Thanks is great, but giving helps others who need something to be thankful for. This is my faith in humanity, not in religion. Although prayer is the cherry on top for many of us.
Nov 25, 2009 at 12:16 p.m.
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I WANT MY RECORDS BACK!!! I WANT MY RECORDS BACK!!!
------Sam Kinison
Nov 25, 2009 at 12:13 p.m.
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Definition of Christian:
1. One who professes belief in Jesus as Christ or follows the religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus.
2. One who lives according to the teachings of Jesus.
Jesus was homeless:
Matthew 8:20--"But Jesus said to him: "Foxes have dens and birds of heaven have roosts, but the Son of man has nowhere to lay down his head.'"
Matthew 25:34-35 "Then the King will say to those at His right, 'Come, my Father's blessed ones, receive your inheritance of the Kingdom which has been divinely intended for you ever since the creation of the world. For when I was hungry, you gave me food; when I was thirsty, you gave me drink; when I was homeless, you gave me a welcome.'"
Nov 24, 2009 at 11:16 p.m.
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Thank you, MikeF. Also to Sandman, IMO, Mr. Kinison was a frickin' freak and a big bully.
Nov 24, 2009 at 9:55 p.m.
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Last year, 34 men found jobs while at the shelter. Of those who found jobs, 24 saved enough money to get their own apartments. Yes you are right, this effort is having little impact on those being served and is just a waste of time and effort. Just ask those 24 FORMERLY homeless men. I am sure they will agree with you.
Nov 24, 2009 at 8:07 p.m.
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An assuredly well-meant but misguided feel-good effort that will ultimately have little real effect on modifying the behavior of the great majority of recipients and waste significant resources that could be channeled towards those it could really help to change. Providing free handouts repeatedly or long-term without the expectation of some productive work output or situational improvement merely perpetuates this cycle. Sorry, but that is the way the world works!
How is it that so many foreigners have come to the USA in recent years with little to offer but their work ethic, but by their own diligence and efforts have been able to find jobs (many time more than one!), build a stake, and even send money back to their home countries? While there certainly are some who have fallen on hard times and deserve a chance, shame on the majority of these, our own citizens, who for the most part have learned little more than how to use the system, loaf, violate the laws, and abuse the kindness of others! Boo if you like, you know it's true!
"Send 'em luggage...send 'em U-Hauls!" - Samuel Burl "Sam" Kinison, RIP (December 8, 1953 – April 10, 1992)
Nov 24, 2009 at 7:03 p.m.
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Wow, after reading the posts I really dont see how JVLhousewife needed any negative comments at all. Of course you cant "read tones" in print. I agree with her, we have a responsibility first to take care of "our own". Financially, mentally, etc... Giving has not a thing to do with religion. That is just laughable. I help people out when I can, because that is what I choose to do. It feels right for me. If I could not afford to finacially, or emotionally- I wouldnt, because I couldnt.. It is sometimes a inner personal struggle, because once you have been taken an advantage of it makes it more difficult. For me, I will help anyone out when and if I am able. Its not about being a "do-gooder", it has to be what you get back personally.
Nov 24, 2009 at 6:11 p.m.
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buckyfan, if you start being picky as to what a christian is, you're going to end up mighty lonely.
Nov 24, 2009 at 5:56 p.m.
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I don't recall jvlhousewife saying she was a Christian, only that her kids go to a Christian school. There's a difference.
Yet I understand where she is coming from, sort of. I struggle more in wondering if I should live in a cheaper residence and drive an even less expensive car so that I can give even more of the money I've been blessed with to the less fortunate.
As the Bible says, we should store up our treasures in heaven, not in this world.
Nov 24, 2009 at 4:42 p.m.
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So where do the homeless women go? Men aren't the only homeless people.
Has anyone who is posting here ever been homeless-for whatever reason?
It's pretty easy to bash the housewife for her comment, but I'm not sure she doesn't want to help anyone-just those who expect a hand out and won't take a hand up.
I've been homeless before, and I know what it's like to be a "street person". And with today's economy, it's hard for anyone to get and keep a job.
This isn't a christian issue; it's a humanity issue and whether or not any of us are willing to help others in times of need.
I think it's a great service they are providing. I can relate to those who use this shelter. This shelter is an excellent example of people coming together to help others for no reason other than they can and do.
Nov 24, 2009 at 4:21 p.m.
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Yes, SwissChick, who do christians think are the ones going around being a pain to everyone else? Answer: other christians.
Nov 24, 2009 at 2:03 p.m.
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I know so-called "front row Christians", and they'd just as soon as screw you as be charitable.
Nov 24, 2009 at 12:16 p.m.
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Sorry, maxdetail, no rash: even though god is as goofy and hostile as you are, you are out of his loop.
Nov 24, 2009 at 12:11 p.m.
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Are you serious g-fan, don't kid, cuz I've been praying that you would get a rash. Nothing dangerous, just annoying. How would you describe this rash?
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I'd give you a hug but I don't want to get it.
Nov 24, 2009 at 11:44 a.m.
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SarahB1, I don't like people to pray for me, it only shows up as a rash.
Nov 24, 2009 at 10:56 a.m.
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LOL! Obviously, maxdetail doesn't know the real localboy.
Nov 24, 2009 at 10:22 a.m.
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Localboy, you write with a well-mannered, even and polite tone. You assume the best intentions in others, looking at both sides and offering moderation instead of sarcasm and ridicule.
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How the heck did you get in here? This is where the tormented come to torment others. No sir, this peaceful and human approach of yours won't fit here. (It's refreshing though!)
Nov 24, 2009 at 6:56 a.m.
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Giving or helping others is a personal choice. Being "Christian" does not automatically make you charitable. I believe the Christian faith does teach "giving" and sacrifice (helping), but it also teaches abstinence, truthfullness, honor, and a host of other attributes. But you tell me one person on earth that is perfect with all of these attributes Christian or not. Religion has nothing to do with any of this, I think jvlhousewife described the school to identify only, not use it as a basis for characterization. Most of you did that.....
Nov 24, 2009 at 3:55 a.m.
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jvlhousewife: God asked me to pray for you tonight. I told Him that I needed to pray for my family members first. He wasn't happy with my answer.
Nov 23, 2009 at 5:52 p.m.
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A long time ago, I was at an AA meeting. A man stood up and identified himself as a "newcomer". When asked how long since his last drink..he said "30 minutes ago". After the meeting I introduced myself to this man and talked with him...he was bottomed out...had nothing material/ no home/ nothing.
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I brought this man back to my home. My roomie and I got together a sleeping bag,back-pack and clothes for him. We let him clean-up and use our shower...we washed his clothes and dried them. We ordered a pizza and we all shared it. We offered him our couch for the night...but he wanted to move on. I drove him the Greyhound and bought him a ticket. I dont remember the mans name...but I cant forget how hopeless he appeared at the AA meeting...and how hopeful and happy he seemed to be with some gear of his own, clean clothes and someplace new to go.
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I didnt write this down here to make myself look better...but I sure felt like I did another person a good turn...it still feels good today, 23yrs later.
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I am not christian...nor am I Jewish, Muslim, Hindu or Budhhist. Religion may still be a salvation and comfort to many here...but I am walking with God alone...religion divides and keeps seperate too many people...too many rules and dogma tend to isolate and quantify ignorance. Salvation and Forgiveness can be found in every one...If Only You Look
Nov 23, 2009 at 5:44 p.m.
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hannah- WOW, yes, thats quite a "church" that *tells* people what they HAVE TO give ... LOLOL
Nov 23, 2009 at 5:08 p.m.
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hannah, the problem I have is when people use their "Christianity" in support of their argument for acting in clearly non-Christian ways. I don't think jvlhousewife is talking about self-reliance as much as she is selfishness. She has made at least one other horribly selfish comment here on the Gazette website -- "I just hope if she does this again that it is her child that is killed not mine!!" Check it out for yourself at the bottom of http://www.gazettextra.com/users/jvlhous...
Nov 23, 2009 at 5:04 p.m.
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Wow, we sure have a lot of self righteous floating around on this blog. Who are we to tell jvlhousewife how to raise her children? Who are we to tell her what to believe in? That is her right. I agree with her in principal, but not in ideology. Helping others is not a requirement in life. However, most people receive joy in helping others, especially when they feel blessed for what they have. Everybody has a different threshold of personal fortune, and that person should be comfortable in giving/helping others vs. being made to or doing it because "they should" based on somebody elses view....
Nov 23, 2009 at 4:48 p.m.
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Nothing wrong with self-reliance... but sometimes the self-reliant have relied on others at one point in their life to get to a better place in life. What if you passed away and your kids had no one to turn to? The world is a lonely place, and you should feel blessed to have what you have, but also know that you too could lose everything. I talk to good people in bad situations everyday who have lost everything due to circumstances beyond their control. Its heartbreaking.
Nov 23, 2009 at 4:39 p.m.
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jvlhousewife was focusing on self reliance.
Nov 23, 2009 at 4:16 p.m.
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As someone who knows from personal experience, the old cliche is true.
You can't out-give God. If you are a Christian and you believe He has given you everything you have (life, jobs, home, etc.), you can't give Him enough and with that giving to others who have even less than us. You may want to re-read your Bible or ask your kids to read it to you, JVLHousewife, because you have missed many of the most important principles in there. I'll give you a hint, it is not TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, FIRST.
I hope for your sake your kids have not listened to you, because you are giving them horrible advice.
Nov 23, 2009 at 4:10 p.m.
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jvlhousewife, shame on you.
Nov 23, 2009 at 3:59 p.m.
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Well, jvlhousewife, you are fortunate to have family that will help you. Many people don't have that luxury. And I don't care if you have a mortgage and car loans. You are supposed to give to others. Remember the story of the widow's mite -- where she gave her last mite (coin)? I don't buy your feeble excuses for not helping. It's hypocrites like you who give the Christian faith a bad reputation.
Nov 23, 2009 at 3:50 p.m.
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No hannah smokes are where i drew the line. If a person needs help buying food and paying for shelter they can't afford to smoke and that was a stipulation. In the case of my friend he just kind of dropped out of life. I really can't explain the drastic change. A person has to want to help themself.
Nov 23, 2009 at 3:44 p.m.
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Our children have been taught that you take care of yourself first, you are the only person responsible for you. We have told them that when our house is paid off and our vehicles are paid off then we can look to help others, but we have a responsibility to our family to see that we are taken care of first. We have also told our kids that family is who you turn to for help, if any of our kids ended up jobless and homeless they would coming home to live with us, if they got them selves in that position due to drinking or drugs we would have them put into a rehab place, if they don't like that then they can get a place to stay after we turn them into the police. My family and my in laws are by no means wealthy but they would be their for us if we needed a place to stay, just as we would help them.
Nov 23, 2009 at 2:58 p.m.
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jvlhousewife, No words can describe the way I feel about what you posted. You should be ashamed.
Nov 23, 2009 at 1:40 p.m.
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I agree...someone forgot their DO NOT JUDGE law back at the house.
I am so glad my children know better...they know that homelessness can be just a couple of paychecks away. All it takes is a company to fold, a serious illness, something like that.
Many of these men have no family to speak of. Nice Christian Charity you have there.
You give the real, practicing Christians a bad name, and I am saddened that you are spreading your ignorance to your children.
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:57 p.m.
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jvlhousewife- Go look up Matthew 25 "35 ‘For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; 36 naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? 38 ‘And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? 39 ‘When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 “The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’
Can you really not spare less than a dollar to help another human?
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:42 p.m.
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jvl: I cannot believe you call yourself a chrisitan and don't help those less fortunate that come right under your childs school roof! What kind of an example are you being to your children when you tell them "don't let this happen to you,or I will ignore you too!!' Yes maybe some take advantage but in more cases than not they are down on their luck and lost it all. I hope you are never homeless but if you were someday you would have to swallow it all and go to a shelter yourself and ask for help. I hope the person running the shelter does not have that attitude toward you!!!!
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:38 p.m.
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jvlhousewife said, "My son goes to a christian school that has the homeless men stay there for a week, all the students are ask to bring in items that each class is assigned. We work hard for what we have and we are not comfortable supporting these men..." jvlhousewife, you seem very happy to point out that you send your son to a Christian school and then go on to show the true hypocrite that you are. So called "Christians" that refuse to help people in need are the greatest hypocrites on the face of the Earth. You don't have to give of material goods. Why not give of some of your time helping these people less fortunate than you? And how about you open up your Bible tonight and read Mark 9:41 to your son? It goes something like this, "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink, because ye are Christ's, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward." Your hypocrisy is bad enough, but you're also passing on your judging of other people and non-Christian ways to your young son. You should be ashamed of yourself.
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:24 p.m.
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I agree with the fact that education may be the key to preventing our children from making poor life decisions in which they end up in a situation such as this. It think we got it straight from the horse's mouth in this article.
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I don't mean to sound preachy, but lest we not forget those in need, due to circumstances well beyond their control, especially around the holidays. There is nothing wrong with the blue-collar work ethic, (I am from a GM family), but isn't it also just as important to teach our children the virtue of genorousity, especially in a Christian environment? Not ALL of these men made the conscious decision to end up in a shelter; they are in a desperate situation. Statistically speaking, most of the homeless are mentally or physically ill, elderly, and unable to work, therefore unable to be contributing members of society. What are we coming to as a society to deny our disadvantaged, disabled, and elderly food and a warm place to sleep? Isn't it wrong to teach our children to generalize that the impoverished and disadvantaged are bad or amoral people????
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:21 p.m.
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ljs64 The word is ungrateful. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Maybe we should be quiet about others!
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:19 p.m.
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.....or mexico
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:18 p.m.
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"Anyone that can walk to the welfare office can walk to china"
Nov 23, 2009 at 12:10 p.m.
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"Anyone that can walk to the welfare office can walk to Kansas City"
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:55 a.m.
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"Anyone who can walk to the welfare office can walk to work."
Al Capp
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"Nothing will work unless you do."
Maya Angelou
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"The only thing that overcomes hard luck is hard work."
Harry Golden
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:39 a.m.
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I can't beleive you would remove a valid comment that I posted. It was not offensive it was factual. The homeless people need responsible supervision. To simply hold their hands and let them continue their way of life is not a solution it enables them to continue their lost lives...I am shocked an appalled that my milktoast comment would be removed...go ahead..negate free speach!!
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:38 a.m.
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Brewersrock, thats a good point too, the gov't(taxpayers) keeps paying to "train" new truck drivers when there are already about 3 cdl drivers with clean records for every truck.
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:34 a.m.
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Everyone can'y pay for housing mowing each others' lawns and flipping each others' burgers.
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:34 a.m.
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I am apalled that the previous post sends their child to a "Christian" school, but is "UNCOMFORTABLE" providing basic support to these men!!! My God, woman, did you not read the story? These men are not there (in the shelter) by choice! Yes, some of them may have done some stupid things, but what about the men that lost their jobs due to their health?!? Because you have bad GENES, you are a BAD PERSON?!???
For example: If you are a truck driver with a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) and you have diabetes that cannot be managed without insulin, you LOSE YOUR CDL!!! Now, you explain to me how that person is GUILTY of some infraction!
Not a very Christian attitude in my opinion!
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:30 a.m.
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How is it someone's own "responsibility" when, on almost a monthly basis, additional things that used to be made here are made in some other country with $1 or less an hour labor...To afford housing, you have to have a JOB...Some people can make their own "job", but not everyone can.
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:17 a.m.
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:14 a.m.
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Lets' blame the politicians, yeah that is the answer. Wake up and take responsibility for YOURSELF. No one is responsible for me except ME.
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Geez......take the easy way out truth and blame someone else.
Nov 23, 2009 at 11:04 a.m.
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jvl-Yes, some of them may be personally irresponsible, but let the politicians keep doing what they've been doing for 30 plus years and many of us may be very SURPRISED who ends up homeless.
Nov 23, 2009 at 10:51 a.m.
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My son goes to a christian school that has the homeless men stay there for a week, all the students are ask to bring in items that each class is assigned. We work hard for what we have and we are not comfortable supporting these men, especially the ones that aren't even from Janesville, or the ones that are habitual users of the program year after year. We don't send in the items and we talk about why these men may be homeless and how our kids can avoid that happening to them as adults.
Nov 23, 2009 at 10:33 a.m.
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I think napalm misspoke...I believe they meant *politicians suck*, not the country..
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..there, I made the correction...back to topic
Nov 23, 2009 at 10:07 a.m.
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What is with the posts about child support and making babies? Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed!!! Thank goodness you have a bed!! I think this is a wonderful program. My hubby works at a church and their turn to host is coming up. What is wrong with you people? Again, people in Janesville and the surrounding area need a hand up and all that happens on here is they get knocked down again. I apologize to the positive posters on here.
Nov 23, 2009 at 9:58 a.m.
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Ironic title to this story. None of the pics have faces....
Nov 23, 2009 at 9:49 a.m.
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quit
Nov 23, 2009 at 9:06 a.m.
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I once tried to help an old friend. He quite his good paying job and blew his entire 401k. We allowed him to live with us rent free including food under the condition he would spend the days looking for a job. By the third or fourth day he had stolen a pack of smokes and just chilled out watching TV. The stealing sealed the deal and he was out. You must live with the consequences of your actions.
Nov 23, 2009 at 8:12 a.m.
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wow how does a story about the homesless turn into a story about dad's and child support?
Nov 23, 2009 at 4:54 a.m.
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Homelessness is a growing problem,only to get worse.Rock County Social Services has NO basic help if there are no minor children in home,nor does First Call Rock County for Married couples W/O children.Exactly where do people get a hand up when needed? Certainly no concrete answers from ANY Wi. City,County,State,Federal politican.I know,I have contacted ALL.The ones who have responded only did so in "politicalese". Not a one responded with a straight forward answer,to a straight forward question.The most troubling (for Me) was the manner of Rep. Chuckie Benedict,Throwing the issue (He is a master at)back in questioners lap.A very sad issue,sadder yet when there are no answers.
Nov 23, 2009 at 1:09 a.m.
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Don't be mad at the system. If it weren't for the system...dead beat dads all over wouldn't wouldn't have paid a cent to support thier kids. Granted...some still don't, it'll catch up with them.
Nov 22, 2009 at 10:25 p.m.
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This country does not suck...
The word you're looking for is not "leans" it is "liens"...having been educated in this city I know that...apparently you don't????
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I'm sorry, but having come from one of three girls...who were all raised by their single father, and who are all college graduates...I don't give a ****. If you don't want to get someone pregnant....or if you're a female who isn't responsibile enough not to get pregnant...here's a thought...DON"T HAVE SEX! Seriously? I have very little empathy (or sympathy) for those idiots who continuously have sex like they're setting up franchise...take some responsibility! Morons. I do, however, have empathy for those kids or teachers who have to deal with the results of these idiot's poor choices.
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Napalm...never think that this country "sucks"...like you say....imagine (if you could) what it would be like if you didn't come from America...we don't even know what "tough" is...compared to the rest of the world, American's have it a lot better...please try to remember that.
Nov 22, 2009 at 10:15 p.m.
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Napalm - I will be happy to purchase you a plane ticket to North Korea or Iraq if you give me your name and address. You should be ashamed of yourself for that comment. Ungreatful coward!
Nov 22, 2009 at 9:24 p.m.
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Thank you, Stacy, for bringing this to the forefront. I can't imagine what it's like, but I believe God placed me in certain situations to test how I'd overcome. It's hard, but I feel fortunate to have a roof over my head, food on the table, and clean clothes to put on my back!
Nov 22, 2009 at 8:10 p.m.
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Great to see this issue tackled in the Gazette. My best wishes for all those living in the GIFTS center. I know it's really hard to survive in this bleak economy, but people do the best they can and people in the community like to help others. Now if only there was a way to get real solutions for these times at a local level.
Nov 22, 2009 at 8:04 p.m.
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child support laws are so stupid. I have a friend who lost his job, and child support put leans on all his cars so he cant even sell them to pay anything...or child support. This country sucks.
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