Posts by rbluman

Reg reader Regina is doing Byte Night - and so should you

Re: Bah, Humbug

Hello again, Mr. Scrooge. Completely agree with you in terms of the housing situation, and I am not naive enough to think that by me sleeping on the ground one night, I'm somehow making a difference. However, collectively, I feel we are, and I don't think it helps anything to have a defeatist attitude: "Well, we're not saving everyone, so let's not do anything at all."

I do believe that homelessness is caused by a variety of factors, and it doesn't matter how much mental health support and addiction counselling is available if someone is still unable to earn enough working two jobs to support their family. There is absolutely a bigger issue here which this event doesn't address and won't solve, which includes government policy and living wage. *However*... as this event grows and draws more and more publicity, and the more people are exposed to the realities of the homelessness issues in our society, I believe (and hope!) that the message will spread amongst voters that we're the ones who can initiate change.

Though saying all that, recent events both here and in my home country have done little to inspire faith in the voting public, so perhaps this is all for naught. But I'd rather do something than nothing, and since I can't yet vote in this country, raising awareness and funds for a cause I care is what I'm left with.

Re: Bah, Humbug

It is indeed a jolly, and I have no shame about admitting I am having fun whilst raising money for a great cause that I believe in wholeheartedly. As someone who has experienced homelessness, I would think that you would be happy for there to be more awareness around the issues that can cause homelessness, especially in young people, and I would think that you would be happy that people are choosing to donate money to this cause.

Would you prefer those trying to help to reduce being homeless to a few nights without a shower in the name of having an "immersive experience"? I do not know what it is like to be homeless and I cannot imagine the hopelessness felt by those who have found themselves in that situation, and whether I sleep outside in a stadium or whether I sleep on the street, I don't think either would make me fully comprehend what is felt by people who feel that they have no other choice.

I am happy to take part in such a great event with so many other people who feel the same way I do about it - it's great to know that we can make a difference regardless of the approval of grumpy old gits like you.