How to End Homelessness

by Shannon Moriarty · 2009-01-12 19:23:00 UTC
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In 1949, Congress articulated the National Housing Goal of "a decent home and a suitable living environment for every American family." Yet 60 years later, homelessness continues to be a national crisis.

Shame on us, America. For nearly thirty years, we have sat back and watched stone-faced as our nation's homeless population has expanded. Yet, we know how to solve this problem. We have had the tools and the expertise. But, despite the National Housing Goal, our elected officials have lacked the will. So homelessness persists.

We have always had the power to end homelessness in this country. In seven days, we will inaugurate a president who began his public service career as a community organizer. Recognizing the power of grassroots mobilizing, he utilized this bottom-up approach to be elected President.

Organizing worked for Obama. So why stop there? Today we can harness this power of the masses to send a powerful statement to President-elect Obama. You can help end homelessness by committing to this Idea for Change and declaring your support. Demand action. Hold our elected officials accountable to promises made 60 years ago.

Vote for change. Vote for this idea. Endorse this idea. Tell your friends about this idea.

The solution to homelessness is so simple, so obvious, it should go without saying: Housing. Decent housing. Affordable housing. If we make this a national priority, homelessness in America will be ended for good.

Shannon Moriarty has worked in various homeless shelters and service organizations around the country. She is a graduate student studying housing and urban policy at Tufts University.
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