On Sunday, a Monitor letter writer offered a remedy to the standoff between the city and the state that’s left the sidewalk to the Friendly Kitchen unshoveled and dangerous – even deadly. He suggested the homeless people who use the Friendly Kitchen, rather than the state or city, shovel the path themselves.
The writer said it would show their appreciation for the free food at the kitchen and give them a sense of accomplishment. Hey, maybe it would lessen the chances of another homeless person being killed there, too!
I’ve been an overnight volunteer for the city’s winter shelters for more than a decade. In my experience, those who are able-bodied have long helped keep the shelters running. They help with the trash, the dirty laundry and keeping the shelters tidy. They voice their appreciation to volunteers regularly.
But asking them to take responsibility for shoveling “their” sidewalk is unfair. They leave the shelters each morning loaded down with their possessions because the shelter doesn’t store their belongings. They are also often sick on account of their living conditions. And while I’m certain some would say yes if asked, why is it fair to expect one group of people to shovel the sidewalk they use when we are happy to have the city clear the downtown sidewalks everywhere else?
Annmarie Timmins
Concord