By Richard Hirsch Santa Monica
Bill Bauer recounts his recent trip to Santa Barbara (SMDP, May 23, page 4) and compares that city’s approach towards its homeless population with ours. He states, “The first thing I noticed was the dearth of drunks and street transients.” Mr. Bauer obviously isn’t aware of the strong support the city of Santa Barbara gives towards homeless programs. The Chamber of Commerce and the business community in general backed the purchase and funding of a shelter in the south part of town. Prominent residents of Santa Barbara regularly visit the shelter and serve meals to the clients. These volunteers include many of the most philanthropic people in the area — those who have been honored for making Santa Barbara a great place to live and visit.
Perhaps if Mr. Bauer spent less time bashing those less fortunate than him and helped create the environment that exists in Santa Barbara, more people could be helped out of the cycle of homelessness and be able to live on their own.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 30, 2005. Read the original PDF.