open letter to mayor of Santa Cruz

To Mayor Chris Krohn Santa Cruz California

I wish to inform you and hope you will let the other politicians of your area know that the Camp Paradise situation is being observed, not just locally, but nationally, and even internationally.

I personally, having very little time, due to necessary time needed for research, and web design, have forwarded information I have been receiving, to webmasters I work with, that deal with social, and other issues, for posting on their sites.

I have also, personally posted, information received, on some online news sites, and in researching have seen coverage, of not only camp paradise, but of homeless camps elsewhere on many discussion lists, some concerning homeless issues, others concerning other social economic, and political issues.

There are those on the internet, that have devoted their time mainly to the homeless issue, that have done much more than I have, in helping the public to become aware.

It seems that there is a rising interest, in allowing the impoverished to implement their own alternative living situations as the governments, federal and otherwise, only spend massive amounts of revenue, while accomplishing nothing.

The non-profits, people are starting to understand, seem to also be useless..

You have the potential to be a forerunner within the political structure, by working with the impoverished that have proven, they are trying. and assist them, through seeking their advise and finding the things they need towards accomplishing their goal, and in assisting them in health and safety issues, and in the wavering of any zoning or other other ordinances that stand in their way.

You may also find what kinds of trades they have, or artistic, and musical talents they have. and assist them in the acquisition of the tools, space, etc to develop and apply their talents, and assist them in marketing their talents so as to allow them earned income, as opposed to so called charity.

You may also create work pick up spots and for them to met in the mornings, have coffee donuts, and those having chores to be done can come by and chose who they want to do it. There are a few cities in the country that have this, and it helps much more than handouts do, especially since the orgs that receive funding to help receive much more than what they help with, and do nothing towards improving the economic situation

Part of my interest in the homeless situation is due to the fact I haven't forgotten my roots. as I spent time on the streets of your city, and observed how your police would go under bridges, and other places people might find shelter at night, and in good weather, they would arrest them for public camping, in bad weather, they would kick them out into the elements.

I also remember when the homeless would feed the other homeless, in the San Lorenzo Park,( I believe that was its' name) without begging for public donations, and this was halted with the hiring in of security, which would chase the homeless away, from a park which was supposed to be public.

I remember this very well, and it was this cold heartedness, that led me to become involved in change.

"True charity is helping people up, not feeding them and allowing them to stay down"
ely