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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsAlbuquerque mayor hires panhandlers to beautify the city
Albuquerque mayor has an incredibly simple idea to help the homeless. And it seems to be working.
Throughout his administration, as part of a push to connect the homeless population to services, Berry had taken to driving through the city to talk to panhandlers about their lives. His citys poorest residents told him they didnt want to be on the streets begging for money, but they didnt know where else to go.
Seeing that sign gave Berry an idea. Instead of asking them, many of whom feel dispirited, to go out looking for work, the city could bring the work to them.
Next month will be the first anniversary of Albuquerques Theres a Better Way program, which hires panhandlers for day jobs beautifying the city. In partnership with a local nonprofit that serves the homeless population, a van is dispatched around the city to pick up panhandlers who are interested in working. The job pays $9 an hour, which is above minimum wage, and provides a lunch. At the end of the shift, the participants are offered overnight shelter as needed.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/inspired-life/wp/2016/08/11/this-republican-mayor-has-an-incredibly-simple-idea-to-help-the-homeless-and-it-seems-to-be-working.
yeoman6987
(14,449 posts)I think they should bring in HR managers to talk to them to see if they could be offered full time jobs. Nice to see a program working. But expansion would help.
Sherman A1
(38,958 posts)It is a great start and a good idea on the part of the Mayor. I also agree with your thoughts of taking this a step or two further. It may not work in all cases, but it's certainly worth a try.
Warpy
(110,909 posts)This isn't going to cure any problems, but it's a hell of a lot better than arresting them for vagrancy or worse.
Skittles
(152,964 posts)oh yes
Beartracks
(12,761 posts)Sounds like a really good program. Way to go , ABQ, and Mayor Berry.
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Maynar
(769 posts)A republican with a better outlook. This is a an excellent place to start
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