05-25-2017, 07:11 AM
I am sympathetic because I spent a lot of time on Oahu, seeing native Hawaiians camping everywhere.
Yes, when confronted with the problem first hand, it's difficult to turn away. I understand and can appreciate your sincere search for a possible answer to the situation.
In the past, a hundred years ago or so, there was no government response when a person went without food or shelter. They either moved in with family, or were left to fend for themselves, which probably didn't last long with no support. Families were also inclined to take in a grandparent or uncle because they would be frowned upon by the community if they didn't. I believe some Hawaiian families (and non-Hawaiian) still retain a strong bond with a willingness to help each other whenever possible.
But it is different now, and far more difficult to lend a helping hand. Room and board for a relative could still be provided at little cost, perhaps doubling or tripling up in a bedroom, or making space on a porch. But today, medical expenses can bankrupt anyone with a single, serious visit to the doctor and/or hospital. Families could potentially put themselves or their children at risk when caring for their own kin with medical issues.
The government doesn't want the responsibility either. So what we're left with is a complex, seemingly unsolvable situation. Sleeping outside, hunting for free food, begging for spare change, and Emergency Room visits as a preferred medical provider.
Yes, when confronted with the problem first hand, it's difficult to turn away. I understand and can appreciate your sincere search for a possible answer to the situation.
In the past, a hundred years ago or so, there was no government response when a person went without food or shelter. They either moved in with family, or were left to fend for themselves, which probably didn't last long with no support. Families were also inclined to take in a grandparent or uncle because they would be frowned upon by the community if they didn't. I believe some Hawaiian families (and non-Hawaiian) still retain a strong bond with a willingness to help each other whenever possible.
But it is different now, and far more difficult to lend a helping hand. Room and board for a relative could still be provided at little cost, perhaps doubling or tripling up in a bedroom, or making space on a porch. But today, medical expenses can bankrupt anyone with a single, serious visit to the doctor and/or hospital. Families could potentially put themselves or their children at risk when caring for their own kin with medical issues.
The government doesn't want the responsibility either. So what we're left with is a complex, seemingly unsolvable situation. Sleeping outside, hunting for free food, begging for spare change, and Emergency Room visits as a preferred medical provider.
"I'm at that stage in life where I stay out of discussions. Even if you say 1+1=5, you're right - have fun." - Keanu Reeves