Personally, I don’t see many homeless people in the community. Every once and awhile, I might see one that is walking along a major road or near some beach shops, but I never see very many, so I assume that it is not that big of a problem in my community.
If I was to let a homeless person stay in my backyard, I would want to know why they are homeless. I know that sounds bad, but I need to be able to trust that the person in my backyard isn't stealing money and shooting up heroin or getting drunk. I would allow it if the homeless person just lost a job, or maybe a divorce ruined them, or something else reasonable that they didn’t have much control over. I would only shelter those who deserve it, no abusers and untrustworthy people would be allowed in.
Also the $1,500 per month seems a little ridiculous. You could literally just rent them an apartment or hotel room with that money. Why should someone get paid more than 650 dollars a month to house a person in their backyard. If you spend over $650 on feeding and taking care of a person per month, you need to take some money management classes.In my opinion, there should be little to no financial incentive to house a homeless and if a person was to do it, it should be from the kindness in their heart, not to increase the size of their wallet.
Would you let a homeless person live in your backyard? Well, your opinion may vary for many reasons, but a big factor in this situation is where you live. For example, you might live in a small area with a small population, which might change your view compared to living in a big city like Los Angeles because your not constantly seeing homeless people on the street. Although when your surrounded by the issue, you might want to help out more by giving them food, or water, or a place to stay. The top cities that have the largest homelessness issues are New York City, Seattle, Los Angeles, and the smallest ones are Honolulu and Orange County. Homelessness has grown for a few areas in America. In fact a certain site named Wall Street Journal stated that from 2010 to 2015 the percent of homelessness increased by 42 in NYC and by 12 in Seattle.There can be really big cities with lots of homeless people, but just because a certain place is pretty small, doesn’t mean they can’t have a big homeless problem too. But considering everything, I don’t think I would be able to let a stranger live in my own backyard because in my opinion it just really doesn’t seem smart, but maybe someone else is interested in helping a stranger like that.
Citations: “Which Cities Have the Most Homeless People?” Millennials, the Deaf Generation? | American Council on Science and Health, www.acsh.org/news/2016/10/13/which-cities-have-most-homeless-people-10300.
Giving homeless people money is not the best way to help them. There are many ways to help homeless people. Most require other people with something to give, whether it’s money, food etc. But some are certainly more beneficial than others. Giving money directly to homeless people is the least effective way to help. Most people asking for money are going to be buying to satisfy “wants,” which generally means cigarettes or other drugs, rather than food. In an interview with BBC, former homeless man Rik James says, “If they ask for money it’s for one of two things- drugs or alcohol.” Some organizations are aiming to rid of homelessness through providing cheap housing to low income families on the brink of homelessness. The National Alliance to End Homelessness, for example, says that there are 11 million households close to homelessness. But they admit that there just isn’t enough very cheap housing to help a large percentage of homeless people. This attempted solution leaves millions with nothing. That breaks it down to working at a food shelter or bringing toiletries to people are the most effective ways to help the homeless, for the time being. They will satisfy needs for a while, but this isn’t a long term solution. A great long term solution could be an education system for homeless people. If a charity was funded that provided teachers to get these people jobs, these people could get back into the world. This could be a solution to take the “homeless” from homeless people.
Personally, I haven't seen a lot of homeless people in my day, whether that's seeing one on the street asking for money or someone sleeping in the car for the night. When I was younger I volunteered for a group of people who made food and traveled downtown to personally deliver it to folks with no transportation. At the time I had no clue why I was doing it and when I asked my parents they said “It's just the right thing to do”. When I think of this article I wonder if my parents would be be found of the idea of housing a homeless man in our backyard. When I look at the these people building homes in their backyards, I wonder if they really care about these people's lives or do they just care about the check their receiving at the end of the month. If it were me I don't know if i would sacrifice my backyard for somebody practically don't know. Would this person respect my property? Is this person a maniac, drug abuser, or murderer?. I would have to get to know the person, do some sort of background check on them. I would rather help a person get financially stable, get a job, and buy a home by themselves.
The solution to homelessness is not simple. In fact, you can think of it as a long word problem. Once you find the answer for a part, trouble awaits in the next. However, there are things that can be done to solve homelessness. The community can abolish their prejudice against these unfortunate people. Yes, although they are strangers that live on the street, you don’t know their past and how they ended up without home. They’re not all criminals, and this negative stereotype is crippling the public opinion on this issue.
In Austin, although we spend about 30 million dollars each year to fund shelters and help the homeless get back on their feet, it doesn’t matter if the people in need don’t use them. On January 28, 2017, 650 homeless people were found in a quarter-mile radius in downtown Austin. 472 stayed in shelters and 178 were on the streets. Seeing that only around 70% utilize these resources, we need more effective solutions.
We should focus on getting the word out that these shelters exist and helping them get a job rather than buy a home so that they can sustain themselves even after they aren’t homeless. We can invest more in education courses and make shelters more hospitable. The concept of allowing homeless people live in your backyard is good, but there are just too many things that can go wrong. Instead of desperately rushing to find the easiest and quickest “solution” for these people, we should make sure that they can support themselves in the long run.
@Alex K but dont they deserve to be homeless
Homeless people are thought of differently by many people; we pity them, find them strange, or just in a bad situation. Yet, no matter our opinion on the homeless we all acknowledge that homelessness is a real problem. Yes, the main problem of the homeless is not having a house, but the way to truly end homelessness isn’t to give the homeless free houses, it’s to give them jobs.
Jobs give the homeless a way to provide for themselves and have a chance to change their own lives. Giving the homeless jobs is more complicated than it seems, it’s about changing their mindset about themselves. Their need for a new mindset is seen by the opinion of some homeless people in a study who “felt they could not handle conventional jobs because of mental illness, physical disability or lack of skills.” (“Income and Spending Patterns among Panhandlers”). AimHire, an organization that helps the homeless get jobs, says that “ensuring people have living wage jobs is the surest way to make homelessness rare, brief, and one-time.”(“Employment First”) I agree, giving the homeless houses and everything else they need only makes them dependent on you; dependence will only make them fall back into homelessness eventually, and that defeats the purpose of helping them at all. If we give the homeless jobs we’ll be letting them support themselves and therefore making them not dependent on anyone; giving them jobs is setting goals of no more homelessness in the world and getting those goals to succeed.
What I think about this article, would you let a homeless person live in your backyard? Is I would let a homeless guy sleep in my backyard, why because they could be in danger other wise or worse get hit by a car, or get sucked in a tornado, or get pelted by a hale storm.
I think they should allow more people in other states do the exact same thing like here in texas, they allow homeless people by westwood live in a hotel till they have enough food and money too move out.
I agree with “Ms. Chavarria for how homelessness is important a lot of people are homeless but we don’t do anything to help, so what I have been doing is trying to ask my parents to give them at least a dollar because they will use that towards food”.
I would want to help as many homeless people as I possibly can, but I don’t know witch homeless person is a real homeless person because on youtube I have seen a lot of videos were people dress look or make people think they are homeless. So I would give at least a little money but I just wish people would be a little more honest with what they do and would stop acting homeless.
I like homeless people but it is not easy for me to say I would allow a homeless person to live in my backyard unless he was a for real homeless guy than I would say yes.
If I were to be homeless though I would stay true to my end and actually be homeless.
Homeless not homeless if they are telling the truth I would let them stay in my backyard.
Several programs are offered for those who are experiencing homelessness. For example, there’s a program that provides health care, substance abuse treatment, and emergency care to homeless people while also establishing eligibility for housing . The U.S. government offers more programs that are similar to this one, which can vastly change the life of a homeless person.
The number of homeless people in America from 2017-2018 has decreased by 1,167 people. Whether all 1,167 used the programs or not, it shows that they are making a small difference, if anything. The U.S is providing the resources to help, it’s just the matter of homeless people putting them to use.
To answer the question, whether the U.S. is providing enough resources to those who are homeless, yes, the U.S. is providing enough resources to help those who are homeless. But, as an opinion, not enough action is taken to remind homeless people that these resources are available for them. Knowing that these programs exist could substantially change their lives and significantly reduce the number of homeless people in America. Many homeless people are uneducated and may not know about the government services provided to them, causing them to stay homeless longer than needed. But overall, the U.S. is doing a sufficient job of providing ways to help the homeless get back on their feet, just not a sufficient job of advertising their existence to those in need.
Are people more or less trustworthy in this day and age? I believe that people are less trustworthy. People aren’t as trustworthy now, we must rely on similarities in physical appearance to known friends or family to determine if someone is trustworthy or not. I read an article about New York University doing a study on who we trust. The results were, people trusted strangers more if they had more similar features to loved ones (Devitt).People don’t have as good of morals in this day and age: I once saw a video on Instagram, it was this man leaving a hundred dollars on the ground in New York. He did this five times. Every time someone picked up the money except for one time did someone give it back. This is proving my point of people should be less trusting. ⅘ people kept the money when he had video of them taking it. This is insane. People are too untrustworthy. I heard a story of a man letting a homeless man in his car, the homeless man stole his car, humans cannot be trusted anymore. There are so many problems with humans. Such as, people may steal from you and could harm you. Ever heard of stranger danger? Others say it’s gotten better, but, it’s gotten worse.
NYU, James Devitt. “Why Do We Trust, or Not Trust, Strangers? The Answer Is Pavlovian, New Psychology Research Finds.” NYU, www.nyu.edu/about/news-publications/news/2018/january/why-do-we-trust--or-not-trust--strangers--the-answer-is-pavlovia.html.
In my opinion, most homeless people deserve a place to stay that is safe. I for one would let a homeless person live in my backyard; however, I would need to get to understand this person to know if it is safe or not. I would want to find out if I could trust them. I noticed that my community doesn’t do very much to help people in need at all. Many people only care that they are living their life as best as they can, and won’t let anyone get in the way of it. I think that people should step up and help out some of these homeless people. “If we can be part of doing something, why would I not want to do that?”(The Learning Network.2018.7). My community should understand that if you have something to give, give it! It is very common to see homeless men or women sitting on the corner of a street or inside an alleyway. Sometimes you even see some asking for some money. When people see the homeless on the street, they often make fun of then or call out mean names at them. I feel sympathy for them. There are some homeless people that may have put themselves in that situation by doing bad things or making wrong choices, but what about the ones who didn’t? Why not offer my help to someone who needs it?
I believe that this pilot program will be effective. Many people are already interested in the program and many have already applied. The Learning Network states, “Ms. Chavarria was one of more than 500 homeowners who applied for the program” (Learning Program, 2018, para. 9). Many people are interested in helping their community. I would let a homeless person live in my backyard, it is a effective idea the community came up with. If I do participate, it may encourage neighbors and family when they see how easy and how much it is helping to do it themselves. The Learning Program quotes, Chavarria a community member, “It’s part of our daily life now — you’re always either walking or driving past someone who is homeless,” (Learning Program, 2018, para. 6). There is such an overwhelming group of homeless people that there needs to be a solution. People need to start helping people. I think communities across America should be working together to accomplish this goal of getting homes to those who need them.
I think personally I would let someone stay in my backyard, I say this because I love helping people no matter the cause. I don’t want people living on the street in the blazing sun or even the very cold winter days. If I was in their situation I would want to be somewhere but the streets. My community has multiple homeless shelters for women, children, men. I think they help but not all people like the rules their so they won’t go. Such as if you smoke, they only allow you to do it in a certain room, but some people think, that isn’t good enough. In this article they said , “ A pilot program run by Los Angeles County will give assistance to a handful of homeowners who are willing to build.” I feel like this will motivate more people to let the homeless stay in their backyards. If they are willing to pay the people that build, then I feel more people will do it.
I think i would definitely let someone house in my backyard, i wonder if it'd be a whole actual house with plumbing and all . Would people pose to be homeless to attain free housing? Or would people make themselves homeless. I think this would also change a lot of things drastically , if everyone were to build a home in their backyard and rent it then there would be twice as many houses.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. Because it would be a nice thing to do and it would get someone off the streets. This article used pathos and logos to push its argument forward trying to connect you to the people living on the streets using pathos and they used logos in just the plain fact that people living on the streets is never a good thing to have in your community.
I personally believe that if a homeless person is in need of a place to stay, then is the right thing to provide them with that opportunity to get their lives back on track. so many people in this world have everything they could possibly want and they don't understand what its like to live without a home.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard, because I am a good person. Who wouldn't help someone in need, what if you were in their situation.
I would only let a homeless live in my backyard under one condition, if they promise to get back on their feet. I would also help them out if they need it.You need to take in consideration what they struggle with,temperatures outside and food. Helping them out would make you feel great.
Yes I’d let them live there and help them get back on their feet. I know my parents would be open depending on how it’d work.
My parents are not paying for our house for homeless people, IT'S FOR ME AND MY SISTER AND MY PARENTS. I would kindly decline this invitation.
@Sam would you consider if it was paid for ? also if the tenant was willing to pay what they could until they get back on their feet.
@Karrina where would the money come from to pay someone to build a house in their backyard and then let a homeless person live in it?
This converrrrsation is so done NO I WOULD NOT LET A HOMELESS PERSON LIVE IN MY BACK YARD CAUSE THEN THEY WOULDNt BE HOMELESS
Why? you could easily just build them a new home, orhav ethem rent out a room. just because their homeless doesn't mean they are completely out of money
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard if they were homeless for a good reason instead of addiction, or just flat out lazyness.
For many people answers would vary, personally I would not let a homeless person live in my backyard. By permitting a person to live on your property, you would have no prior knowledge about the person, or if they are dangerous. I think this program had good intentions, but most likely people will not open their homes willingly to strangers. I do not think the program would work out very well, due to the fact that our society is not willing. In the article the author writes that they would, “ beginning pilot programs to give homeowners subsidies to create housing for the homeless” (Medina, 2018, para. 4). If I owned a home and had children in the future I would not let someone onto my property when they could have access to harm anyone. I do feel sympathy for people who are homeless but safety comes first, and there are other ways to help the homeless. Instead of giving the money to homeowners, why doesn’t the government use the money to make houses and shelters for the homeless. This would be the smarter safer way to help the homeless rather than inviting strangers into the peoples home.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard: “When God blesses you, it’s to bless someone else” (para.7). I would not let them live there forever, but I would for a couple weeks while they are trying to get back on their feet. If I had a house and everything else that I needed, why wouldn't I help someone out? In my community, we do not really have the issue of people being homeless, luckily. Although, we do have people that are less fortunate than others, For these people, we have areas in our community that people can go to and drop off used clothes, shoes, toys or practically anything to help these people out. In school, many students will participate in an annual food drive and the food collected is sent to a local homeless shelter, which helps so many people. Lastly, many can volunteer at homeless shelters, especially on holidays like Thanksgiving, and cook/serve the appreciative people food. When helping out these people, the smiles on their faces are priceless and you feel like you've made a difference in someone's life. Who wouldn't want to feel that way?
Homelessness is a problem everywhere. As someone who lives in a city, I see a homeless panhandler on almost every street corner. I believe that this program is a great idea but others might not think so. Many people would despise having a homeless person living in their backyard, after all, it is THEIR property so they do have the right to feel that way, but for those who are feeling charitable, it's a great idea! Personally, I would not feel comfortable giving up my property for the homeless, but for others who need extra cash, it's wonderful!
Despite extensive effort from non-profits and government intervention, homelessness seems to be a growing problem across America. Homelessness isn't necessarily due to poverty. A homeless person is just a person without a stable address, therefore homelessness can just be due to a traveling occupation. This approach to homelessness also poses a danger risk to participators because financial instability can affect people emotionally in negative ways, which can manifest and present itself in outwardly negative ways. The longterm outlook of housing the homeless in backyards is not promising, but an increase in homeless shelters is a safer, better alternatives for both sides of the spectrum.
I feel like this may or may not help the problem. It depends if it would be temporary or permanent housing for the homeless. Also who would be providing all the funding for this? I think it could go really well or really bad. There is a fine line between helping others and enabling them.
@Mara I completely agree with the whole funding thing, however what do you think would be a good solution for getting homeless people off the streets?
If I was fortunate enough to own a house for myself, I would definitely allow a homeless person to live in my backyard. Although many feel it is not their responsibility to offer shelter for the homeless, I feel it is our responsibility to better humanity. Homelessness has become a norm in our society and it shouldn’t be. If given the resources to effectively lesson or decrease the population of homeless, we should all be jumping at the thought! All homeless people need is a little boost, once they are on their feet and given the resources and environment for success, they will be more likely to go out and better their lives. By helping them we are creating a more functioning society while also becoming kinder and more compassionate. I agree with Melina Chavarria when she describes “I’m not religious, but I am spiritual, and I have this belief that when God blesses you, it’s to bless someone else.” If many of us are given the resources to build our successes, why not share it with those who are not given those resources. The central goal of this program is not just to reduce homelessness, but to help increase the productivity of society allowing those who are unable to function in society the opportunity to. My town has food pantries and a goodwill to help those who do not have the basic necessities in life. This program, although many may be reluctant at first, will be a big success and will give many homeless people a second chance at life.
@Elodie Poussard I agree with you that homelessness shouldn't be a norm. However, I don't think building a house in people's backyards is the solution to this problem. I think we need to look at population control instead of finding a quick fix for a symptom of over population. The Earth has only so much space and in that space you can only fit so many people or things. Also what resources are you referring to? Most people are homeless because of a lack of resources.
It is all of our duties to help our community and those who are less fortunate, especially as the homelessness epidemic is becoming increasingly prevalent in society today. As someone who grew up in a major city with a large homeless population, I have always wanted to somehow solve this issue, and I believe housing the homeless can help alleviate this growing problem. Providing a shelter for someone who may be homeless due to illness/addiction/joblessness is the least we could do. If we are put in the same situation in the future, wouldn’t we want someone to do the same for us?
However, there are also some safety regulations that should go underway prior to allowing them to live on property. A background check and a screening process should be seen as necessary beforehand.
@jl.aa I agree with you thinking that back round checks need to be done! People should not endanger themselves and/or their families.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. I would try to my best ability to help them in anyway I can. Any little thing helps so I would try to help them get back on their feet. So if that means giving them a place to stay, or letting them take a shower, or giving them something to eat then I would be open to it.
I think we should do as much as we can to help the homeless. There's always a way to help. If you don't have money try to carry snacks with you or if you're worried they will use the money for drugs buy them food or simple clothing. Even gift cards are helpful. You can get them for any where - the dollar store or fast food places and supermarkets. The idea of being able to provide shelter for homeless people is great. Now they have one less thing to worry about. They'll have shelter from the weather, a place to clean themselves, and just a place they can call home. This could even help them find jobs allowing them to get back up on their feet.
I would be more than willing to allow a homeless person to live in my backyard. By offering them a safe haven to stay, it would allow them to focus on more pressing matters for themselves, such as supporting themselves enough to get back on their feet. People in poor situations are not usually at fault, as they often simply fall victim to their surroundings and lack of opportunities that our beaten further down by burdens and hardships. A lot of the time these people have lost a lot. Because of that fact, I think it is right to give them something in order to aid in their recovery. If I were homeless, I know that someone opening up their doors and arms to me would mean the world, and could significantly change my outlook on life, so I believe it is right to open your doors to others in need.
In my town, homelessness is present but also assisted. We have multiple outlets for food, shelter, and supplies to aid homelessness in the area. There are a lot of good connections through these, however, I understand that it can be much more difficult in rural areas, and in larger cities, where supply and demand of help don’t work out as nicely.
Because not every area has the community organizations for diminishing the effects of homelessness, the incentive-based pilot programs are a great idea in my opinion.
Yes, I would let a homeless person live in my backyard, provided that they are using the house to work toward solving other issues in their life, such as seeking help for illnesses/addictions, finding a job, raising their family in a stable environment, etc. I would not give a house to someone who is simply using it as a free place to stay, while not addressing the issues that made them homeless in the first place.
The problem of not having shelter is foremost in the minds of people experiencing homelessness, as shelter is one of the basic needs for survival. While this problem persists, homeless people are unable to devote energy to other matters. The first step toward solving homelessness is to give homeless people a home–once this basic need has been met, a person can devote energy to other matters (seeking counseling, applying for jobs, etc.) that will eventually make the person self-sufficient. This is why I believe giving a stable, permanent housing situation to homeless people will be a successful solution. It recognizes that the base upon which all other solutions to homeless can be built is simply having reliable shelter. Traditional approaches that tout self-reformation first (getting help for addictions, finding a job) fail to recognize that people can’t address those issues without having a stable place to stay first.
No, I would definitely not let a homeless person live in my backyard. For these reasons:
(1) My backyard is already being used to the fullest extent possible. There is no space for anyone to live there.
(2) EVen if there were space there for someone to live (say, in a tent), I would not want someone living there -- this would feel very invasive to me, an invasion of privacy. This is my space and that of others in my house: and unless a person living there were a member of my household, I would not want them there. And to be a member of the household they would have to go through the regular screening process that all renters go through. Which they would fail, due to their desperate circumstances.
(3) I understand that some people like to help those in need. But it would be naive to think that you could let someone live in your yard and that this arrangement would fall outside of the landlord-tenant laws in the state or nation. Tenant's rights laws would apply to anyone living anywhere on your property, whether or not they pay rent, and even if you haven't given them permission to be there but they have broken in and just squatted. Property owners all over the nation have to go to court and pay a lot of money to remove problematic squatters or renters who refuse to leave. If you let someone live in your backyard, and then later decide that wasn't a great idea, and ask them to leave, if they refuse to leave you would have to go to court to get them out.
I believe that I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. I think we have a great responsibility to help our community we live in, there are people who hate those who are homeless and blame them for how they ended up. When in reality for most people, it isn't their fault. The timing and circumstances weren't the best, and they lose all hope. It is our job to give them hope.
When you house someone in your own yard the benefits go further than financial incentives. You start to make a connection with a person you would never have made a connection in the first place. Connections in life are important, all the people you meet whether it was a couple of seconds or your whole childhood, make the biggest impact ever. Some more than others, because connections and keeping in touch are like dominoes that increase in size. One little connection is the first domino, the second is helping each other out, in return, they can help with what they can, and the dominoes just get bigger, you end up to a relationship of friends or business partners or book authors, etc.
I think the program will be very effective in terms of giving the homeless a home, which provides necessities like any other approach. If a city really wants to provide a way to rehabilitate the homeless into society, then you have to approach this in a different way. Not provide what they are missing, but how can we help so they can provide for themselves? Opportunities.
Personally, I would welcome a homeless person living in my backyard, if I had the room to build the housing. I believe that those of us who have more than we need should make sacrifices to help those who are less fortunate than us. Beyond the financial incentives, some of the other advantages of having someone live in my backyard might include building a relationship with that person and helping them find a place in the community.
In my community, homelessness is not nearly as visible as it is in big cities, but it certainly still exists. Two of the biggest programs in Ames working to combat homelessness are the Emergency Residence Project (emergency housing) and Food at First (a food pantry and hot meals program). These programs seem to be very effective, however, the need for their services is often greater than what they can do with their limited resources.
I think that the pilot program has great potential, but its success depends on the willingness of residents to participate. If successful, the program has the potential to bridge the social gap between homeowners and the homeless. It also provides a unique opportunity to incorporate homeless people into a neighborhood and community that they would not have interacted with before. If successful, I certainly think that other cities should give it a try.
I would allow a homeless person to live in my backyard. Seeing the joy that would be brought to those who need help would be great to see. However, there would have to be restrictions and limitations on the things that they could do. For example, I don’t think I would allow them inside my house. I would also want to get to know the person or people who would be living in my backyard, learn their story and things that I could do to help them. Allowing a homeless person to live in my backyard is a simple act that can go a long way in making a difference in society today. I also think that those who give up their backyards should receive some incentive for doing so. I don’t really know what the government would be able to give but they should receive something for their generosity. In the town I live in, there are several emergency residence shelters around town where those who need to can stay in. They also pay for hotel rooms for families that are in need of housing as well, however this can get expensive. I think this pilot depends on the willingness of people to give up their backyards. If enough people are willing to do so, this project could end up being a great movement that could spread nationwide. Based on the results and effectiveness of the pilot in Los Angeles, Seattle and Portland, other towns and cities should think about implementing this housing development.
I think that this is a great idea and a good initiative to help the homeless population. In more populated areas like; Los Angeles and Seattle, as mentioned in the article, make sense. There are bigger populations of homeless people. Personally, if I was a homeowner I would definitely be open to letting a homeless person live in my backyard. There has to be a definite vetting process that the program offers to the individuals so that the homeowners are not in harm's way or found in difficult situations. Also, if it's just my job to provide them a living space then I am more than willing to provide that for them. If need be, to provide clothing and food I would do so. For those homeowners who are providing shelter for the homeless that have severe problems and need more essentials, should be reimbursed more money. This program will do really good things and be very beneficial if done correctly. The homeless individuals will get more one-on-one attention than going to shelters, and be provided space to be able to sustain a livable life.
I would not let a homeless person live in my backyard. I find to a bad idea to let someone live in my backyard, because there would to many issues; such as privacy, property value depletion, how to pay for everything, and social problems that would arise. I think a better solution would to be to get overpopulation under control. If the U.S. wasn’t overpopulated then there would be more jobs and houses, hence there would be a massive decrease in homeless people. According to the World Population Balance “U.S. population is growing by over 2,000,000 people per year -- that's 240 per hour -- about half from new births and half from immigration.” I think we need to handle this before we handle anything else. Another reason why the LOS angeles plot plan is and idea is “officials in Multnomah County, Ore., announced plans to build backyard units at no cost to the homeowner, more than 1,000 people signed up to register as potential hosts,” there is no such thing as “no cost” what the officials mean by “no cost” is that it is coming out of taxpayers wallets. This is a huge problem because some people don’t want homeless people living in the neighborhood and another might want to sign up for this plan who lives right next to them and then there would be conflict between the two and the person would most likely become more in raged if they new that they were paying for it. All in all, it is just a solution to housing homeless people.
If I was a homeowner, I would allow a homeless person live in my backyard. It would be a good way to help out in my community. However, it's not necessarily a responsibility of everyone to provide for others. I appreciate that some people genuinely want to help out the same way that she does but it should not be required to provide support.
I think the people who do choose to participate in the program will benefit with just the feeling that follows after knowing they’ve helped someone. They can see the lives they touch by helping someone who is homeless to have a more comfortable life. They will be able to know that they’ve done something to better serve their community.
My community provides the Emergency Residence Project which is a shelter dedicated to helping provide homeless people with a home and then helping connect them with more permanent housing. Food at First is a free-meal kitchen which also helps people in town who cannot afford to eat. I think the ERP does a good job at helping the people pass through poverty and Food at First is beneficial but at the same time doesn’t help them to not be homeless, just helps them while they are. I think this pilot program could help people to get on their feet and help them to be able to get a job so that they can provide for themselves well.
I think it is up to the cities and how much of an issue homelessness is within them. They should be able to decide whether it will help them or not.
After reading this article, I feel compelled to help people less fortunate than me, however, I have a hard time letting go of the my fairly selfish lifestyle.I do believe in the second sentiment that Mrs. Chavarria shared. I believe that we have a responsibility to our Heavenly Father to help others. However, there are many many reasons we would not want to be doing something, even if we can. I think that it is absolutely possible, even probable, for someone to find real benefits for helping someone in need in such a profound way. If I were to change a homeless person’s life for the better, I can’t imagine the things I would learn, and the possible invisible prejudices I would find inside me. Here in Ames, Iowa, there is not a huge amount of homeless people. There is an Ames community homeless shelter, as well as a volunteer based “Food at First” program here. I think these are extremely effective programs. They are easily accessible, and I feel the atmosphere of these two places are exactly the kind of welcoming environment that a homeless person would need. I think if people sign up, it would be marvelously effective. That being said, I have my doubts about people signing up. Generally, I think people put their own selfish desires above service—myself included. I think it is asking for a little more service than the citizens are willing to offer. In cities like Ames, Iowa, there is not a lot of homeless people, so I feel a program like this wouldn’t really be necessary.
I would certainly allow a homeless person to live in my backyard if there was a screening process. I think there should be a screening process for the homeowner as well. The poverty cycle is a very difficult thing to escape from and it is important to help out where you can although I recognize that this is a large commitment. Life is random and where people end up is not always in their control. Thus it becomes important to recognize where you are lucky and help others who are less fortunate. In my community we have what is called the “Emergency Residence Program” that provides housing for single men and families. It successfully provides shelter and meals for people and encourages them during their hunt for work however there are still many homeless in my town living in the woods as the ERP has limited space. This unorthodox approach will also most likely make it easier for those participating to get jobs as it is hard to prepare for an interview if you are living in your car. With a few more details about the screening process added, I think this is a great option to adopt beyond Los Angeles. However California has a huge homeless population and most likely only a fraction of them would benefit from this program even if it were expanded beyond Los Angeles. It is unlikely that this program will end homelessness as more government action needs to be taken to end the cycle of poverty however that should not diminish the fact that this program will help a lot of people.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. Often times in our society people do not think about helping anyone except themselves. It is this type of attitude that can hold people back. Although my city has a low homeless population, it is still present. By providing a home for someone out of luck you could change their life. Allow them to feed their family, to not have to chose between clothing and a house over their head. You take away the stress of finding shelter and safety for the night, and allow them to build their life up again. To help other people is to help ourselves. What type of society would we live in if we only cared for people when they were rich? Just because they are without a home does not mean they don’t deserve to be treated like a human.
When I read the title of this article, I was very skeptical of the concept since it involves so much trust. After reading and thinking on the topic as a whole, I've come to think that I support the idea and would also allow someone to live in my backyard. Being homeless in America is a sentence of inopportunity and a permanent stigma against one's character.
All limited necessities stem from homelessness. Little perishable food, the means to stay clean and rested, and exposure to weather year round makes for a very unfair lens to view a possible job applicant through. Without a viable way to obtain work, many of those with no place to stay resort to stealing or other illegal paths to simply survive.
Giving shelter to the homeless is the perfect way to kickstart a much more successful life. This moral incentive rivals, if not surpasses, its monetary counterpart for the homeowners involved. Knowing that someone is on the way to a better life due to your own actions is incredibly gratifying, and the money involved sure doesn't hurt.
I believe that, as a society, those in a position of financial success have a moral responsibility to help others. This is particularly true for those experiencing an adverse situation caused by factors beyond their control. Not all people are homeless or in financial tumult simply because they are lazy.
The benefits of the “backyard housing project” appear to outweigh any potential cons. While my community offers resources such as free meals and shelter to the homeless, research shows that children who live in a safe, permeant home do better in school and are more likely to pursue further education. Adults who have a safe place to sleep at night may be more motivated to hold a job. Both of these factors would ultimately promote the financial wealth and general safety of the community.
On the other hand, as Cantley explained, it can be scary inviting an unfamiliar person—often associate with negative stereotypes—into your life. This concern, however, would over time be assuaged if the project builds a positive reputation and garners praise from both sides of the yard. This could inspire it’s expansion into other areas (where the climate may be far worse than LA), leading to even greater success of the program.
Seeing as my backyard is unused (with exception of my dogs), I see no problem with it. I feel indifference, but something akin to subsidies might push me to become a proponent. One of my pals often takes folks in search of a home into a spare bedroom, allowing them to stay until they can find work or shelter.
While the lazy part of me is inclined to say we have no responsibility to people worse off than us, I believe that if there are systems in place that make it easier to help the less fortunate, it's only responsible to help them. At the same time, people shouldn't feel forced to help the less fortunate. In order for goodwill to count, it has to be of free will.
I don't find her argument very convincing, because I don't see anything wrong with using my privilege to better myself before using it to better others.
I don't think any incentives beyond the financial would be necessary.
I know that there are several shelters in place for homeless kids and adults, but as it stands, I haven't heard the best things about those or foster homes alike. Too often, the caretakers aren't able and/or willing to support them, and the care given is impersonal.
I think that folks will be too skeptical. At the same time, shelter is only one of several basic needs required to survive and thrive. While this is a start, homeless folks need things like emotional support and a sense of belonging to be productive and thrive.
I see no reason that this approach wouldn't do good everywhere.
I would definitely let someone live in my backyard. I would allow people to live in my backyard because I want everyone to have a safe environment to which they can go back to. I also love seeing the joy that it would give to others.
I think that her point is true to an extent. I definitely think that if you are able to help others without diminishing your own life, you should do it. I also think that if someone is stable, they should try to help others who are struggling to bring them onto the right path.
Yes, I think that there are more benefits to housing others than just finical benefits. You can learn to get an insight into the other peoples lives and why they’re in that situation. You also gain the benefit of joy by knowing you’re helping the world.
I think that the program is going to be relatively effective. While I don’t think it is going to solve the issue, it will definitely help it. I think it might be able to help people get back on their feet by talking to people and give the homeless a new outlook on life.
I think that at first the cities with the highest homelessness rates should adopt this at first and then it can expand further into other cities.
I, personally, would not want a homeless person to live in my backyard unless I knew their situation and knew they were doing everything in their power to help themselves. It might just be that I haven't witnessed it a lot and I don't grasp completely how much of a problem homelessness is, but there are safety precautions that I would need to know are keeping me safe. In Ames, IA we don't have many homeless people that you see on a day to day basis. The only time I've seen a homeless person is off the interstate exits, asking for money. Just because I don't experience it everyday, that doesn't mean that it isn't a problem for larger cities. Hopefully there are more people willing to offer up their backyard in the larger cities since they've experienced the problem more readily. Even though I wouldn't allow someone to live in my backyard I hope that there are people out there who feel it, in there hearts, that this is a great project and that they are able to help as many people as they can. But I am not one of those people who would offer up my backyard.
There is a housing crisis in some of the most populated cities and some people want to help, that's why I think this is a good idea because the program is voluntary and people would make money from rent paid for through a Section 8 voucher or some other rental assistance program. This gives more people homes and can help homeless people get started for a better life, The program and others like it are starting in Seattle and Portland not only is this helping the homeless everywhere is helping the economy.
This novel approach should be adopted and/or piloted in major cities across the entire nation, not just the west coast. Yes you have to start it somewhere, but people in different regions have different attitudes towards this subject. Different regions could have different outcomes. Different regions would also have different needs for this type of approach. In the winter months up north this would be crucial to the homeless people of those areas. In comparison, LA would not really need to be so worried about the cold for their occupants. Different regions have different needs. Therefore these programs should be started in all major cities across the US with the correct necessities needed for the climat eof those areas.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. I live in Ames Iowa where the amount of homeless people is not very high (in comparison to Los Angeles) yet there is still a prevalent issue. If I can be capable of changing someone’s life for the better I will immediately jump on it. We as a community should have a moral obligation to help the homeless in some way, however, that can range for lending a few coins to providing complete financial stability as it depends on how much you can lend.
The rewards for housing a homeless person in your backyard are immense. Outside of potential financial benefits, you also develop social skills, management skills and get to see another side of the world that you may not be able to see. Through hosting a less fortunate human being you have the opportunity to learn of a brand new view on the world.
As for the pilot program in Los Angeles I am sure it will have a large impact on the issue but won’t solve all of the problems that are posed by homelessness. It would be able to accomplish the problem of sustainability that some shelters have. Although it may have issues when it comes to homeowner and renter interaction, I feel it could be more sustainable than some of the shelters that only stay up for a month. Secondly, the food supply may be better for the renter if the homeowner makes food for them or supplies materials for them to use.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. Providing a home to someone in need can be a simple task that can make a world of difference to someone without one. I could see why people may have concerns for their safety and oppose the idea, however, many homeless are just like everyone else just in a less fortunate position. Like many people don’t want to give beggars money, why would they want to give them a house? What many people don’t understand is the importance of shelter and the difference it can make when trying to live a more independent life. It’s not a handout, its a hand up.
The principle behind the project is honorable and genuinely heart warming, people see an issue and fix it; but I personally think further safety precautions and a reasonable but adequate set of guidelines should be required before people begin to offer strangers a home so near to them. I do think the community surrounding a high population of homeless people has a responsibility to help, and Ms. Chavarria's noble effort to help someone who is less fortunate is definitely a persuasive technique to help society start moving in the right way. The ultimate benefit of helping those in need is a moral reward in the sense that helping others should bring one joy. In my community there are efforts in the schools and non-profit programs that help organize food drives and gather food to go home with kids of families that are struggling financially over the holidays to ensure they eat. I feel it will be more effective than places such as homeless shelters and soup kitchens due to the inviting nature a home provides, not only is a home an incentive to find a job but also provides the means to do so. Referring to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs shelter is the first and most necessary tier, meaning that without a stable shelter along with other basic needs like food and water, no goal is reachable. I don't believe all cities should adopt this pilot because not all cities need this pilot. The pilot should be placed in cities that demographics prove it is needed.
Although I thoroughly support the program, if I was a homeowner I would never let a homeless person live in my backyard. I think this is a great idea, because the people that want to go above and beyond and help out the homeless to that extent are able to do so. And while surely some of the people that do this are doing it for the money, I feel that most are doing it out of heart. I feel like many people wouldn't shelter a homeless person in their backyard for any sum of money. If I was a homeowner I would not do this. I think it's a great concept, but personally, I think it's a little weird to have a random homeless person living in your backyard. I do think it would be a good idea for roommates that are splitting rent money, and instead of another roommate they could build a shelter in the backyard for a homeless person and use the money you get from that to pay rent. But in most situations, I think it is a bit inappropriate to have a homeless person living in your backyard, like if you have kids and a family.
If I were given the opportunity to let a homeless person live in my backyard, I would most definitely help them and let them live there. I feel as though being there for others in your community who are struggling is a responsibility that you must accept as a member of the community. Opening up my backyard to the homeless would be my way of helping out in the community.
I help out in my community be participating in community service, such as soup kitchens, food drives, and playing with and entertaining children of struggling families. The benefits of taking part in these services should be none other than the satisfaction and joy you feel after helping out the community.
However, I am not completely innocent. My mother tells my sister and I not to look at the homeless people on the side of the road; so we look away. Don’t get me wrong, she is an amazing woman with good intentions. It’s just hard to tell who is faking and who is homeless. We used to give money to these people all the time; that was until we went to New York we got scammed out of $20. It doesn’t seem like a lot, but my dad actually felt really bad for the woman he gave the money to and genuinely cared about her health. When he saw the news report he was furious and decided never to give out money again.
If enough people participate in the program, I think it will be very effective in getting the homeless off the streets. I believe that all cities should use this program in their community.
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I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. My church is always doing something to support homeless people. Recently my home did not only get hit by 1 hurricane but 2 and my church started volunteering for all kinds of organizations like Salvation Army and Vigilant Hope, as well as provide housing for all of the homeless people who didn’t have anywhere to go.
Me and my family starting volunteering at Salvation Army serving food, cleaning the bathrooms, sorting food and clothes that were going to be given out. My mom has also made small care packages that she keeps in our car ready to give it out to a homeless person.
I see many homeless people in my community and I wish I could help every single one but since I can't maybe I can help as many as I can and maybe helping them might encourage them to help others too. I think that building a relationship with these people might actually help them to work for a goal or just help them not feel so alone. My family and I build so many relationships with so many people and even encourage them to help serve food and bring others up if they are feeling down in the dumps. This is why I would allow a homeless person to live in my backyard so that we can build a relationship. You would not only be helping that one person but every person that you encourage them to help as well.
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I would absolutely let someone live in my backyard. It would be weird for me at first and I would probably have to get to know them first, just to make sure they’re not like a serial killer, but I think everyone deserves to be helped and deserves a second chance at life. Whatever got them into a situation that resulted in them being without a home, can be helped. We have a responsibility to help people who are in need if we can. This is an excellent cause that I think needs more recognition, many people in our communities suffer everyday, and if it were me, I would want someone to be kind enough to open their home to me and help me get on my feet. I agree with Ms. Chavarria saying that helping people, if you know they are having troubles is the right thing to do. I think if more people knew about this, they would be eager to help because it is providing for people who have lost so much. It’s just part of being a good person.
After reading the New York Times article "Would You Let a Homeless Person Live in Your Backyard?" I definitely would. The reason I would do this is that just because someone doesn't have as much money as you to afford a home, does not mean that they should be living on the streets with no food or water. Each and every person should have an equal opportunity to get a job to earn money, even if they have been down the wrong path in the past. In conclusion, I would let a homeless person live in my backyard because even those that are less fortunate than us should deserve to have a place to live.
I do not feel that I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. I think that the concept is great and for the people that are receiving the help they need it’s great for them. I am one of those people that would be more than happy to share a lunch with them, or give them money or something but to me my home is my personal space and I would not want someone that I don’t know living in my personal space. “How big a problem is homelessness in your neighborhood or community?” In my community, homelessness is not as big of a factor that it maybe is in other communities and so maybe that is why i don’t feel such affection for having homeless live with me. I feel that if I can help in other communities, I would, but the living with me part is just a little too much for me to do at this time right now.
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Most Definitely I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. Growing up I have always been taught to treat others how you want to be treated and that would come in to play if I was ever faced with this situation.
The statement in the article “ I believe that when God blesses you, it’s to bless someone else ” really hits home because I know how blessed I am to have a roof over my head, clothes on my body, and food to eat because there are so many people out there who are not as fortunate and I want to be able to provide things for them. If I can have all these things but I don't share them then what is is the point of having them?
Over 500 homeowners have applied for the program, but they are expecting around 1,500 dollars in return for rent. I ask myself are these people really doing it for the right reasons or are they just greedy and know they can take advantage of people who are in need. To be honest in today's society I believe some not all, are doing it for the extra cash which is sickening. I want to believe that everyone in the world is good but it is nearly impossible nowadays to think that. The pilot program is a really good idea but I think the rent is a little high. By lowering the prices in today's society I believe would deter lots of people from the idea, so do we want more bad people doing it for the wrong reasons or less good people doing it for the right reasons. When it really boils down to things it is just a game of pick and choose.
I don’t know if I would want a homeless person to live in my backyard. I totally understand that they need help and support and that doing this would really help them get back on their feet. I love that people are taking an interest in this and helping the people in their community. However, there are a few problems with this plan. There is now a random person living in your yard that you may not know anything about. They now have easy access to your living space and after living there for awhile could probably get into your house if they really wanted to. Maybe it’s different because they have their own house out there and you wouldn’t need to worry as much but it would still make me uncomfortable.
The message that Ms. Chavvaria puts out there is very inspiring. The fact that she would go as far as to build another house in her backyard to help another person she barely knows is amazing. I do think that people should really reach out more to help the homeless but I just don’t think this is the safest way to do that, I think that the housing doesn’t have to be in someone’s backyard. What they should do is build houses for them to stay in there own space.
With homeless people, you always feel sympathy for them. You always in your mind really want to give them some spare change or a couple extra dollars on you. But letting someone i don’t know live in my backyard is just silly to me. I have nothing against homeless people, but the thought of someone being in my backyard at all times that I have no clue who they are is crazy. It’s not the fact that they are homeless; it’s the fact that anyone in the world who is in need of something that they can’t get, and they have a huge opportunity sitting right in front of them, they’re gonna take it.
I think that homeless people are a variety of people, there are many veterans who fought for our country and are living on the streets now. There are a good amount of druggies who will take your money, and use it on some sort of drug or alcohol. Some homeless people just took the wrong path or didn’t have a helpful family, and they can’t do anything about it. The troubling part about it is that if you were to let a homeless person live in your backyard, you don’t know this persons backstory, and for me, I wouldn’t take that risk.
This idea of housing homeless people in people backyards is an idea, that I think, will not work out very well. I just don’t see very many people with the will to give up their privacy and land in order to let a homeless person live on their property. If this was going on where I lived I would most definitely not apply for this program. I just wouldn’t want a homeless person living in my backyard.
I firmly feel that the homeless have the ability to bring themselves out of that financial hole. And yes I understand that some homeless people can not work or have some issue that stops them from building back their lives. I think that those people should be helped more than those people who are able to work. Those people who can work need to go get a job and make some money. That way they will at least be able to afford a place to stay and food to eat. The reason I am saying this is because if these people actually get out there and get a job then they won’t need a free place to live in someones backyard. So overall, I think that this idea has very good intentions to help people, but i think in the long run if you want to help homeless people you need to help them get decent paying jobs.
While it may seem rude at first, I would not like to let a homeless person live in my backyard. Don’t get me wrong, I love helping people in need, I like to pass on what god has given to me just as Ms. Chavarria stated.
My backyard is my private wilderness, I can be in nature with peace and quiet. I don’t think people should be renting out their backyards, but instead purchase land to build the the housing. This is a more generous way to help, the housing provider will be able to build whatever they want because it is a blank slate. This allows for a park or common place for the residents to get together and relax.
While it is also very generous to rent out your backyard, there is definitely a more efficient and helpful way to contribute.
I think that it is great that Los Angeles has a program that is building houses for the homeless in people’s backyards. The fact that someone would be willing to let a complete stranger live with them on their property is truly amazing. However, I don’t think I would let someone live in my backyard. I think that it could be a little strange to have a complete stranger live in your backyard. It could potentially pose a safety issue or, it could make you uncomfortable even though it is your own home. Also, what would be expected of a person who does this? Would they have to feed the person in their backyard as well? Would they need to call someone if say, the person’s plumbing or electricity stopped working? And if so would they need to pay for the service? I agree with the article that homelessness is a problem that needs to be fixed however, there are other solutions to help that do not involve sharing your property with someone that you do not know. Instead of paying someone $1,500 a month to someone who opened up their backyard, that money could be used to help build establishments and create programs for people who face this problem.
After reading the NYT article "Would You Let a Homeless Person Lie in Your Backyard?" I definitely would. Every person is human poor or rich, so they should deserve shelter and nutrition to survive. It would be a little selfish to get to survive just because you have a better job than someone else or a better education. Overall, I would let a homeless person live in my backyard.
Poverty is a major problem in our society today, especially when our world population is growing at such a tremendous rate, the poverty rate is no doubt going to keep on skyrocketing. I’ve seen the horrors of being poor and experienced the guilt of not being able to help out. I remember going to Paris several years ago. Every few feet, there’s a man and/or woman with a child maybe either sleeping on the dirty roads or holding their hand out, begging for help. I hurts more because, my family and I were on vacation, and everyday, we would always walk the same path to the subway, and we would always see the same hopeless people pleading and begging.
After seeing the poverty in other countries and the people standing on the side of the road holding a cardboard sign, I would definitely be willing to allow a homeless person live in my backyard.
The only problem I see with this pilot program is getting people to do it. I know that many people are most likely going to be skeptical about a person living in their backyard, especially a homeless person. They could steal things or be nuisances if they have an annoying attitude. I completely understand people not wanting to put themselves in a situation where it could make their life’s more difficult, and not even benefiting from it in anyway. But, when you experience the guilt of passing a helpless person on the side of the road in your fancy BMW, you don’t want to feel anymore pity or guilt for that person on the the side of the road.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard, I think that understanding someone is super important and not to just assume how they got homeless or how they are in the situation they are in. I think most people are scared of homeless people, afraid that they will steal something
from them or even harm them, but most homeless people are not like that and are genuinely nice people in a bad situation. I've also realized most people assume homeless people begging for money are just addicts looking for their next dose, but most of the time they are just trying to get food or money to fix themselves up for a job interview. I think letting a homeless person live in your backyard will really help citizens of our community and even the country take responsibility in trying to fix our community and make it better. Besides earning financial benefits from housing a homeless person in your backyard you will also earn respect and be looked upon as role model for doing something about a big problem, you may also create a long lasting friendship.
Personally, I don’t see many homeless people in the community. Every once and awhile, I might see one that is walking along a major road or near some beach shops, but I never see very many, so I assume that it is not that big of a problem in my community.
If I was to let a homeless person stay in my backyard, I would want to know why they are homeless. I know that sounds bad, but I need to be able to trust that the person in my backyard isn't stealing money and shooting up heroin or getting drunk. I would allow it if the homeless person just lost a job, or maybe a divorce ruined them, or something else reasonable that they didn’t have much control over. I would only shelter those who deserve it, no abusers and untrustworthy people would be allowed in.
Also the $1,500 per month seems a little ridiculous. You could literally just rent them an apartment or hotel room with that money. Why should someone get paid more than 650 dollars a month to house a person in their backyard. If you spend over $650 on necessities per month, you need to take some money management classes. I believe there should be little to no financial incentive to house a homeless and it should be from the kindness in their heart, not to increase the size of their wallet through rental programs or vouchers.
I would let a homeless person live in my backyard, I think that understanding someone is super important and not to just assume how they got homeless or how they are in the situation they are in. I think most people are scared of homeless people, afraid that they will steal something
from them or even harm them, but most homeless people are not like that and are genuinely nice people in a bad situation. I've also realized most people assume homeless people begging for money are just addicts looking for their next dose, but most of the time they are just trying to get food or money to fix themselves up for a job interview. I think letting a homeless person live in your backyard will really help citizens of our community and even the country take responsibility in trying to fix our community and make it better. Besides earning financial benefits from housing a homeless person in your backyard you will also earn respect and be looked upon as role model for doing something about a big problem, you may also create a long lasting friendship.
No I would not let a homeless person live in my backyard as of now but would definitely in the future, and here are a few reasons why I couldn't as of now. I agree with what Ms. Chavarria said, and I would want to give them a place to stay, but with my current living space it just would not work.
Here in Wilmington, NC, there are a few homeless people on the streets, but it is not like a big city where they're on every block. I feel like I would be a bad candidate to have a homeless person living in my backyard because I am never home. Having a homeless person live in your backyard could have increased risks of burglary since there is someone that can just look into your house at all times. Another reason I would not want a homeless person live in my backyard is because I don't have a big enough backyard to even put a couple of lawn chairs on so it would not fit.
In the article it says that the people volunteering to do this are getting paid about $1,500 a month which is a lot of money for letting a homeless person live in your backyard but then again you are probably going to have to buy food and drinks for the person, and also make sure that the house stays clean.
If I lived in a place where are backyards were bigger and we had more security such as cameras and better door locks I would totally be up for it. But what I would rather do is help build a small house for a homeless person so that they have their own space and privacy, just like any other human wants.
I would ABSOLUTELY let a homeless person live in my yard to help them out if they need it. I would also help them to get back on their feet because I don’t feel like they should be content with that lifestyle. I would help them look for a job so that they can work and make their life better so they don’t have to rely on a stranger to give them shelter.
There are 500 homeowners that volunteered for this program in Los Angeles, an overpopulated place to begin with, that said they want to let a homeless person live in their yard. These people will be paid around 1,500 dollars a month through a Section 8 voucher or another rental assistance program, but that is not the main reason why they want to do this. There are many people who do not care about the money, but they do it because they are kind souls. If this was me, and I got paid monthly, I would probably split it with the person living in my yard. This feels like the least I could do because nobody deserves to live like they do, not knowing when they will get their next meal or where they will sleep that night.
One of these homeowners said, “I have this belief that when God blesses you, it’s to bless someone else”. I agree with this statement because I feel like you should pass on your blessings and share them with others. For example, having a house is a blessing so if I could help someone else out and allow them to have a “house” of their own for a little while, then that is what I want to do.
The decision to allow a homeless person to live in my backyard is a big decision. It honestly depends on the homeless person and if they are trying to improve themselves.The most homeless people I’ve seen in one place is San Francisco. I took a trip during the summer of 2016, I heard it was bad, but it was worse than i thought. There wasn’t a street without them, camps set up everywhere. They adopt puppies they can’t care for and cage them so people will feel bad for the dog and give the homeless person money. The reason i say it depends on the homeless person, it’s because a large amount of people are not going to attempt to better themselves. I used San Francisco as an example because MOST of them don’t seem like they’re trying to better themselves in any way. A lot of them think its too late, They’re addicted to heroin or crack and they give up trying to get clean. If a man or woman had gone through some hard times and needed a place to stay, sure. You can live in my backyard. But if your addicted to drugs and aren’t trying to find a way to get clean, or get a job, or do ANYTHING to help yourself, I’m basically hurting you by giving you a place to not turn your life around. If a homeless person is trying to change your life for the better i would certainly let them live in my backyard. I would provide them with simple necessities such as food and clothes until that change in their life comes.
Every single person in this world is human. Every person has a heart. No matter the circumstances, people who are in need of help should be helped. You never know, the favor could be returned to you! There are so many people who have been in terrible situations that have led them to lose their homes, possibly live in their cars, or just lose everything they have. I think Los Angeles helping the homeowners to build these small homes for possible homeless people is a fantastic idea. It provides a shelter and privacy for everyone living there. Allowing for a homeless person to stay at your house is just a decent thing to do. I definitely agree with Ms. Chavarria saying that helping people, if you know they are having troubles is the right thing to do. As people see this cause as a whole, lots of them will want to participate knowing it is saving a life and providing homes for the people who have lost so much.
Well, I can’t because I don’t have a backyard, but if I did, I’d say, “Come on!”
It’s a little disappointing to know that people are paid to do this. I mean $1,500 a month? And I do believe that some people do it out of the goodness of their heart. Maybe $500 a month because the people who are allowing the homeless to live in their backyard are, I hope, opening their homes to them too and feeding them.
The best thing about this arrangement is that relationships are formed between the homeless and ones with homes. And maybe the homeless will have names instead of a label.
It’s easy to give some bucks to the homeless on the corner asking for food or money. Truth is, and I hate to admit it, I look the other way sometimes. I don’t want to make eye contact and I hope the light will turn green. I’m not proud of that. It would be better if I went to a nearby food place and actually walked to them and gave it them, not just hand it out my window.
You know, I’ve felt good about myself when I give them a couple of dollars and that shames me now. They need contact, either stopping and talking and giving them a meal, or better yet sharing a meal with them in a restaurant, or inviting them to your backyard. Handing a few bills out the window isn’t enough for them or me.
So here I was judging the ones who had to be paid and I realize I’m not helping them out of the goodness of my heart...yet.
Oops! I meant to include that I’m a teacher, not a student.
Yes, I would let a homeless person live in my backyard. This is something so simple that we can do that could potentially benefit thousands of lives so why not do it? Los Angeles had an brilliant idea and I really hope that it works and people do this for the right reason. One day this may spread to other states or cities and become a more popular thing. That would be amazing to help someone in need and be the person that changes someone's life for the better.
Yes i would allow a homeless person to live in my backyard simply because if i was homeless i would want someone who is generous enough to let me live in there backyard. I would provide them food and clothing until they could get on there feet , as long as the homeless person is trying to better himself/herself i would not have a problem with them staying in my backyard so ... my answer is yes .
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I would allow a homeless person to live in my backyard. I would allow them to live in my yard because I find it as a moral cause and appropriate reason to help people in need. I completely agree with Mrs.Chavarria due to the fact that if a moral cause came up I would want to help any way I could even if that is through simply helping a person with a home just for them. The idea of putting a homeless house in your backyard can help you because they could help with chores or make it easier to clean the yard. Also, it is very moral and make a realization that you have done something right for a change rather than go through life thinking you didn't do anything. I believe that if everyone believed in the cause, then it will be relevant to see that many homeless people will have a home to go to, while they are in need of a house.