Re: letter from Penny Bhanji (The NEWS, March 29).
The writer was objecting to the possibility of some homeless people using public parks to set up camp.
She worried that these people would (in her words) leave “filth and rubbish... when they (are) finally moved” and this was “abhorrent.”
What we find abhorrent is the fact that disadvantaged people are forced into homelessness in the first place. One of the richest, best endowed places on Earth is unwilling to provide simple basics of dignity to its fellow human beings.
We see the results of a society driven by self absorption, greed, self indulgence and disrespect for others. Our society would be much improved if there was more empathy and less self-centeredness.
So you’ve moved, here “investing a lot of money.” Why not take a small piece of your money and ‘invest’ it to contribute to a slightly more dignified existence for those less fortunate than you.
If every person in Parksville “invested” a couple of dollars a month we could solve much of the local homelessness issue.
Why not, instead of complaining, get involved to help in the solution? There are many others in the community already volunteering, such as: The Salvation Army, Manna Homeless Society and the Society of Organized Services.
Maybe encourage city council to set aside a park area for homeless campers complete with proper sanitation and garbage facilities. Become a giver.
Richard and Doreen HamptonNanoose Bay