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t was a normal day at the COSAC shelter for the homeless. Valerie was cleaning the walkway, Christine was making sure the special needs clients were getting their showers, and the nurse came by to give out medication and
to test our diabetics’ sugar level. Lois was busy at her desk after waking from her bed and drinking her coffee that she had made an hour earlier when she went to sleep at 7:30am. The time was now 8:30am and Hallandale Beach Vice Mayor William Julian called me and said he was on his way to pick up the items. Sean called Mr. Sawyer and told him to bring the stuff. Sean then got on the PA and made this announcement to the clients, “Please make sure that there is no smoking in the building and that everybody has a smile on their face. We are having a visi(Continued on page 6)
I
n St. George, Haiti, a two year old friend of mine is suffering from malnutrition. His hair loss, extended belly and weight of that of a 1 year old are clear signs of this. His malnutrition state is not from the lack of food, but from the parasitic man. What has the world come worms that lie within his belly. to? He and most of the “We can place a man on the You really may not believe that it children that live moon and build bombs that exists, but it does in impoverish conditions suffer from can take out entire countries, as you can see by these parasites that so why are children still the pictures (p.7) can grow to eating dirt to deal with the of the surgeon reover 19 feet long pain in their stomachs?” moving a 19 foot worm from this inside the belly. This is not a typo, I said 19 feet patient. Whatever little bit of long inside a human, a baby hu- nutrition the children receive the worm takes most of it, causing malnutrition. 2 billion people are infected with worms around the world making it the third biggest disease out there. Bad water, meat and bad living conditions are why most people are infected. My little friend nibbles on dirt sometimes because it helps him deal with the Call (954) pain in his stomach. We can place a man on the moon and build bombs that can take
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925-6466 X101
(Continued on page 7)
COSAC and the City of Hallandale come together to pack up supplies to send to our troops.
D
o you think the United States would be so cruel to allow it to happen again? Don’t you think they would have learned from the Vietnam War? How can it be happening again? When the Vietnam vets returned home many of
them could not function because of the post traumatic stress disorder. Many of them became addicted to drugs and alcohol and the government turned their heads. Even though some of us may not agree with the Iraq war (Continued on page 8)
Most Americans are “Two Paychecks” away from being homeless. Help the shelter stay alive. We are trying to pay the mortgage off! To help, please send a check or money order to: COSAC Foundation Burn That Mortgage Campaign P.O. Box 292-577 Davie, Fl 33329
The Voice of the Homeless
Page 2
HOMELESS VOICE
FRIENDS OF THE HOMELESS For just $15.00 a month you can keep a homeless family off the streets for a day. Please make check payable to: COSAC Foundation Friends of the Homeless. Please include on memo what name should appear in paper.
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Russell J. Ferguson Marjorie G. Rhines Jamie F. Flores In Loving Memory Of Thomas Gasbarro Cathy and Kids The Davis Family Graham R. Mitchell Essential Oil Healthline Amparo L. Korey John’s Plumbing Service Thank You Winn Dixie Adrienne and Mike Ms. Marilyn Smith Albert J. Taragowski Ruth C Grey Mike Cross Tamara Southard Raul Cardenas MD PA Al and Annie Hurricane Prevention Inc Danny and George The Thompson Family OTD Messenger, Inc M. Smith Yorick and Bonita Parrica Lee Russ & Delores B Mordon Robert Jesus Llanes Comet Couriev Proietto Family In Memory of Billy Corwin Josh Searles Patricia Lee Russ Delores B Mordon Mrs. Jenkins Everglades Moon, Covenant of Goddess, Elibet Hanson Judy B. Pascarella John Gaeta Michael R. Prokop, Jr. Jackie M. McCarty In Memory of Charles Horton In Memory of William F. Judge Todd Palgon The Morabito Family Todd Palgon
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Holly J. Andrus Lois Cross In Loving Memory of Florence & Nat Popkin Tailored Advertising, Inc Claudia K. Tapolow Margie Jones In memory of Wesley H. Woodall Maria M. Riveiro Gottlieb & Blair Family Pioneer Middle School Youth Crime Watch Rhenals-Mei Family The Strikowski family Margie Jones & Friends Ronald Prescia In Memory of Brian Groleau Laura Flash Jacqueline M. McCarty The Herrmann Family The Monserrate Family Madeline Butera Jennifer S. Nickel Marilyn R. Smith David Thawley On Behalf of Matthew Lambert Mustafa Mehmet Gokoglu In Memory of Scott Paul Cooper Robert and Ruth Baal In Memory of Melba DeSanto In Memory of My Mother Pearl McCann, Love Teresa Barbara Desanto Leah and Ray Michael & Michale Rhett Marie Sutera Floyd and Luana Coats Doug Boucher Family
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Volume 6, Issue 5
HOMELESS VOICE We have launched the first Homeless Voice News Wire. Share your stories on the web, view stories on the web; want to get involved? Send me an email at VoiceUS@aol.com. Thank you in advance. -Mark LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Targett SEND TO: P.O. BOX 292-577 DAVIE, FLORIDA 33329 FAX TO: 954-926-2022 EMAIL: info@homelessvoice.org ALL DONATION REQUESTS IN THE HOMELESS VOICE FOR ANY CHARITY ARE ADVERTISED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THIS WORDING A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE IN THE STATE 1-800-435-7352 REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEM ENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE THANK YOU FOR HELPING THE HOMELESS
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F LO R ID A A UTO IN SU R AN C E IN C . 6 7 4 0 T A F T S T R E E T, H O L L Y W O O D
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The Voice of the Homeless
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NATIONAL NEWS
D
‘menace’ as Deb. The ironic ebbie Roberts is the first thing is that I have never met street paper vendor in anyone so completely harmless, Winnipeg and has been vending charming, and innocent as Debsince 1997. For many years Deb- bie Roberts. Of the dozen or so street pabie sold Our Voice from Edmonton, Street Talk from Calgary, pers in Canada, Winnipeg is the and then our own street paper, only city, (I know of) where the Street Sheet Canada. She’s not individual vendor has to pay anything at all. In retiring from Street vending – just “No one who works Calgary, Talk has one from being an outlaw. We had for Street Sheet Can- business licence but no vendors as many as seven ada profits (All are pay a cent exvendors a year volunteers) but the cept for papers. ago, and because Edmonton no of intimidation vendors relied on the In licence at all has from the city and businesses the money to better their ever been asked even! Linda only one left is lives; so it is especially Dumont, founDebbie and a couple of reneatrocious that they der Edmonton Street News, the gades who have refused to pay a would attack such a new paper in licence fee. Like charitable cause.” Edmonton has told Street Sheet the squeegee Canada that kids, they bravely continue to work -- and fortu- they haven’t ever been told street nately some police officers have paper vendors should have a lioverlooked them often, showing cence. Edmonton Street News that they have more moral fibre will celebrate its first anniversary this November. Actually many than the bureaucrats! Last year a “licence inspector” city councillors, and even sports confronted Debbie in front of figures have endorsed the Our Tall Grass Prairie Bakery and Voice paper in the past and still demanded that she show a li- do because of the charitable nacence. She was told she was ture of the two street papers committing a crime. Debbie, on there. L’Itineraire in Quebec a fixed income and mentally City does not require its vendors challenged, told her she didn’t pay a licence, nor is any licence have one. Debbie went home paid by vendors who sell the pathat day and was followed by per, Street Feat in Halifax or Dale Ducharme, licence inspec- Montreal, where ex – Winnipeg tor, I suppose to make sure the mayor Glen Murray attended public was kept safe from such a Concordia, a university renound
for it’s progressive activism! Only here in “progressive” Winnipeg are individual street paper vendors required to have a “hawkers” licence. Another irony: The BIZ downtown had encouraged people to sell Our Voice papers from Edmonton many years ago too. They thought it would be a good vehicle to get rid of panhandlers since the ‘odd’ customer Winnipeg MB would complain. …There -- Debbie Roberts retired was never any mention of a licence paid by vendors at from her “life of crime” in that time at all!!! A law for Winnipeg earlier this year. the rich and… Since we have been writing a street paper for many because of a combination of inyears we adopted a code of con- timidation tactics by Business duct that was quite fair and equi- Improvement Zone and city hall table: Each vendor has to abide licence inspectors. The purpose of the paper is by the rules: I will be substance free at all times; I will be polite at giving the less fortunate a bit of all times; etc…Vendors must pocket change and encouragewear a badge with their name and ment. No one who works for Street picture on it. But city hall still demanded she go to court and Sheet Canada profits (All are volissued her with a fine after unteers) but the vendors relied on the money to better their lives; so months of “investigation”. It will be all but impossible it is especially atrocious that they for anyone on a fixed income to would attack such a charitable pay a $98.00 fee. People who cause. sell street papers are people in- I am hoping that the new mayor – variably on fixed incomes who Mayor Sam Katz will find it in must get by on $700 per month! - his heart to start a dialogue with - If they are lucky enough to get us to see if a merciful solution that much even. I doubt very can be obtained. We had little or much any on disability assistance no response from ex-mayor Glen would be willing to pay that Murray’s office or from the examount seeing that they make do ecutive policy committee. The on a shoestring each month. The only response last year was from city’s attack has the city lawyer’s office and the just been one of prosecutor. many over the The trail of Debbie Roberts years against was last winter. January 1st she this brave soul will again be required to pay for named Debbie a $98.00 hawkers permit. AnyRoberts and one wanting to become a Street others. Since Sheet vendor in Winnipeg will the cities attack have to first pay $98.00 to the we have not city. been able to Mayor Sam Katz has only been encourage any in office a few months, but hopemore people to fully he can be of help. sell our paper in By Rodney Graham Winnipeg. In fact the few we had have all but disappeared
All it takes is One
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Page 5
Volume 6, Issue 5
MEDICAL AWARENESS
A
s we all know, Sean our Director has suffered from bacterial meningitis. The fact is, that a vaccine is available to the public for the same type of meningitis he had, and he will be getting his soon. Sean Cononie stated, “If I was a person who thought that they should have a vaccine, I would get to my doctor at once and ask if they were a candidate for a vaccine.” Cononie claimed that, he has been permanently affected by the outcomes of the delayed treatment from meningitis.
Cononie claims there are many forms of meningitis, not only bacterial but viral and then forms can be broken down to many forms inside these classes. There are many forms of bacterial meningitis that can range from flu type to strep type. The viral meningitis is less dangerous than bacterial meningitis. Below is a little news story about the vaccine that is available for bacterial meningitis. Check with your doctor to see if you can get one. For more information go to our educating people about meningitis web site at www.meningitis.org
FDA Approves New Meningitis Vaccine
New Vaccine May Help Protect College Students From Bacterial Meningitis
T
he FDA has approved a new, single-dose vaccine that may help protect college students from bacterial meningitis, a condition that frequently spreads on college campuses. The agency has approved the Menactra vaccine to protect against the potentially deadly infection. The bacteria, known as Neisseria meningitidis causes a rare but serious infection known as meningococcal disease. Bacterial meningitis infects between 1,500 and 3,400 Americans each year, and about 10% of those who develop the disease will die. Of those who survive, up to one in five suffers from permanent disabilities, such as hearing loss or brain damage. Vaccination against the bacteria is the most effective way to reduce the risk of death and permanent disability caused by meningococcus bacteria. Adolescents and young adults are at increased risk for contracting bacterial meningitis because
they live in close quarters in dormitories and residence halls. Infection is usually acquired through intimate contact such as kissing an infected person, sharing food, or living in close contact with an infected person. Adolescents and young adults account for almost a third of cases. In young people, those aged 15-24 also are most likely to die from the disease. The CDC recommends routine immunization of all adolescents and college freshmen living in residence halls. The FDA approved Menactra based on clinical trials involving more than 7,500 adolescents and adults that showed a single shot of the vaccine was powerful enough to protect the students from bacterial meningitis throughout their college years. Menactra's manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur says the vaccine is the first meningitis vaccine approved for use in the U.S. that protects against four of the five common strains of the bacteria (A, C, Y, and
“Adolescents and young adults account for almost a third of cases.”
W-135) which cause the disease. The most common side effects of the vaccine were pain, redness and irritation at the injection site, as well as headache, fatigue, and malaise. Last winter we had the unfortunate experience of someone we love suffering from meningitis. What started off as flu-like symptoms turned into a medical nightmare that almost took the life of Sean Cononie. Without any real warning, he was rushed to the emergency room where he slipped into a coma. For months we were unsure if he was going to have brain damage, or even live to see another day. When he finally emerged from the hospital, he was very weak. His eyesight was poor and he had extreme difficulty concentrating. It has been over a year since
then and although he is doing better, he will never fully recuperate. This life threatening virus can be prevented. If you have not had your vaccine yet, please contact your physician immediately. By Jennifer Warner WebMD Medical News
"Each time you are honest and conduct yourself with honesty, a success force will drive you toward greater success. Each time you lie, even with a little white lie, there are strong forces pushing you toward failure." -Joseph Sugarman
Landless people make gains over Brazilian government
B
Brazil currazil’s government is making plans to rently stands as one increase funding to end landlessness this of the most inequitable counyear. According to the BBC, plans to Brazil currently tries in the world, with double the current budget would add stands as one of more than $600 million to the the most inequi- 90 percent of the land controlled by the richest fifth of the population. In fight for housing. The coun- table countries contrast, the poorest 40 percent of the population only controls 1 pertry’s landless peasin the world cent. The extra money will provide ant movement has land for 115,000 more families this staged a series of demonstrations in the last year, camping on year. -News Wire 22 different ranches in March alone.
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The Voice of the Homeless
Page 6
HOMELESS VOICE
rain. The troops eat meat in a can, tor.” Well, that meant that all of vs. the homeless finding their meat Sean’s special friends knew he was in a garbage can. They (soldiers) up and started to make their way to become best friends, maybe even his office. They sometimes forgot like family, whereas the homeless do that Sean was out right now because the same with their friends at the of the Meningitis. (He tries to play soup kitchen. Fending for others or it down when they knock on his fending for themselves, both do door wanting this and that.) that. Is there a difference? Both This time as they knocked ways of life, at that given time are he said to them, “I’m glad you very dangerous. Soldiers get killed are volunteering today to help some- by bullets and bombs…fire one in need.” They looked at him so power…and homeless get set on fire surprised. You have to remember by a bunch of teens who think it is that these special friends of his are funny. mental health consumers and the I also realized on this very ones who have been here for the adventure filled day that the homelongest time. They use to be chronic less again are heroes, this time once homeless and now they are his fam- again helping someone in need. You ily. Each one of them picked up a know, they (homeless) pass out flybox or two and laid it on the dolly. ers of missing children in our Amber Then came the cigarette break. Af- Alert system, have brought water to ter a few minutes disaster victims and they went back to just feed “Hallandale was sometimes picking up the the next homeless boxes, a few boxes. also the agency that person who comes Then another cigainto our doors. This gave us a police rette break. Boxes time they were helpand breaks. Boxes the troops. It escort to Lee County ing and breaks. Boxes gives them a real and breaks. Then sense of pride and EOC during last after a while they feeling of being a years hurricane asked Lois for some part of this great coffee. Lois, still in USA, of feeling like season when we her night gown, a true American… walked over to the brought many trucks just as good as the coffee pot and next person, the filled with water non-homeless perstarted to brew a fresh pot for them. son, who wants to to aid the As a few minutes do their part in putpassed, these special hurricane victims.” ting a smile on the people just forgot face of a young man what they were doing and went on or woman who just may never come their way downstairs to have break- home to their parent’s house again. fast, and then all hell broke loose. Our hats at the Homeless Box after box was on the way to the Voice go off to Vice Mayor Bill dolly, the items were 400 of each Julian and the residents of Hallantype; 400 razors, 400 bottles of body dale Beach as well as the entire City shampoo, 400 bottles of conditioner, Commission for putting a smile on 400 boxes of baby wipes, 400 boxes those faces and in those hearts, who of Crest tooth past and 400 boxes of must desperately need it sometimes. shampoo. Sounds a little like an Hallandale was also the agency that oversized Noah’s Ark? Why 400 of gave us a police escort to Lee each? Because the City of Hallan- County EOC during last years hurridale Beach decided to Adopt-A- cane season when we brought many Unit. The Army Unit 2nd battalion trucks filled with water to aid the 265th, totaling 360 men and women hurricane victims. Hallandale, and I who serve each and every one of us know it is really Hallandale Beach, and many others of different nations. but just “Hallandale” is more comThey are the men and women who fortable in my mind. In any case, are in Afghanistan in the name of this is the same city that truly has its democracy and in the name of stop- own city social service agency, the Hepburn Center. There are only two ping the terrorists. Everybody was pretty ex- cities in Broward County that offer cited knowing that when the soldier its residents social services, helping some 3000 miles away opens up a people out of homelessness and care package and gets something making sure they have access to extra, he or she knows that the citi- food. This time the City Commiszens they protect really do appreci- sion and Vice Mayor Julian went, as ate their duty. The date on the Sean would say, above the call of Adopt-A-Unit flyer was during the duty to assist those in need. We the holiday season, when all hearts seem homeless commend you for your to be a whole lot softer, and here actions and for caring and sharing now, what has been collected will be and putting a smile on someone’s received during the non-holiday time face. Written By William Robb and will be a much more special & Lois Cross treat. I started to think a little deeper and thought: what do the homeless and our troops have in common? Foxhole vs. a meter room. Tents vs. garbage bags to keep dry from the (Continued from page 1)
Vice Mayor William Julian loading sup-
Sean Cononie taking a break
Double Checking the supplies
Sean Cononie (L) and Vice Mayor William Julian (R) both hands-on people
SHOP ONLINE AT THE HOMELESS VOICE INTERNET MALL go to www.homelessvoicemall.com
Page 7
Volume 6, Issue 5
VOICE OF THE HOMELESS
(Continued from page 1)
out entire countries, so why are children still eating dirt to deal with the pain in their stomachs? I have been an aid relief volunteer and advocate for the poor for many years now. I have seen starving children, homeless children, children sniffing glue and once even a child that was left in the trash in a slum of Haiti. The state of the world's children is very poor. Tonight 24,000 children under the age 5 will die from starvation, 10,000 homeless children in Haiti will lay their head on concrete, millions of children with sniff glue in South America and tonight in India there is an estimated two-million child prostitutes. What are we doing for the worlds children? How can you place a man on the moon but can't figure out how to get some peanut butter to a starving child? So we must ask ourselves, do the powers to be really want to help the world’s children? Look at World Bank for example. The World Bank gives loans to impoverished nations for development. The key word there is loans. In the World Bank's case, for every dollar they loan they expect 13 dollars back in debt repayment. A country like Sudan, where an estimated million people will starve has paid back more in debt repayment than in education and healthcare combined. It is estimated that 7 million children around the world will die annually because of this debt. The United Nations is not doing much more but having meetings talking about statistics while children are dying. In Iraq the UN economical sanctions killed over 500,000 children and women alone throughout the 90’s. After hundreds of thousands of small children died, the oil for food program was formed in 1997. Under
this program less than 60% of the humanitarian aid that was exchanged for oil made it to the poor of Iraq. Von Sponeck, the director of the oil for food program resigned in protest in 2000 because the program was not meeting the needs of the Iraqi people. Does this tell us something? Whether the UN is trying their hardest or not, the fact of the matter is my friend is eating dirt because he has a worm in his stomach. The UN's cost of de-worming one child is around 2 cents. My little friends’ growth will be stunted; his learning impaired and will carry side effects for the rest of his life over two cents. The vending machines in the lobby of the UN probably generate enough money to de-worm a small country like Haiti but it is still not being done. The World Health Organization studies show that by de-worming children their health can improve by 67%. Deworming a population of people can be done cheap, fast and even without the presence of a doctor unless you’re de-worming children under the age of two. It is suggested to de-worm twice a year and in really bad areas where infection rate is very high, 3 times. Re-infection will accrue if the impoverished conditions in which people are living in, does not improve. I am reminded of a quote mother Teresa once said. “Do not wait for leaders, do it yourself person to person.” With this in mind I am starting a project to de-worm the children of Haiti in a joint effort with the Homeless Voice. We might not be able to de-worm the whole country but we can target the most affected areas of Haiti like Cite Soleil, a slum where children only have a 50% chance of reaching the age of 5. The medication will be distributed by the Chick
“I am reminded of a quote mother Teresa once said. “Do not wait for leaders, do it yourself person to person.”
A
n average of 23 percent of the requests for emergency shelter by homeless people overall and 32 percent of the requests by homeless families alone are estimated to have gone unmet during the last year. In 81 percent of the cities, emergency shelters may have to turn away homeless families due to lack of resources; in 81 percent they may also have to turn away other homeless people.
A Physician is seen removing a worm that was over 19 feet long and that lived in this person. Grant Foundation at the low cost of 5 cents a child. Unfortunately we cannot get it for 2 cents because that only applies when ordered in very large quantities. If you would like to participate in de-worming some of the most desperate children in the world whether it is in the form
of making a donation or to join me in the distribution of the medication, please call 954-9243571. The world's children do need our help so please open your heart and help alleviate there suffering. -Aaron Jackson
From Air Travel to Wire Transfers SHOP @
The Voice of the Homeless
Page 8
HOMELESS VOICE
(Continued from page 1)
we stand behind our soldiers who did what their country asked them to do, we sent them into harm's way at just 18 years of age. We allow them to see their friends die right in front of them over and over again. They are told to carry on and do their job and to mourn later. ‘Carry-on soldier’ are the words they hear. Then a year later when their tour is over and they served their country they are told to carry-on in the civilian world. Now their emotions run wild; as they sleep they remember Johnny who was in basic training with them. By the way his head got blown off as they sleep in a foxhole next to each other. Ask yourself this question. Would you be normal? Would you be able to go to work? Would you take drugs or alcohol to cover the pain? How would you live knowing that your job was to kill the enemy; a man your age that is fighting for his cause as you were fighting for your cause? Yes you had to kill the enemy, but over the years those faces will appear as you sleep. How would you live? The United States of America should have learned off of the Vietnam veterans. We still give them below standard care at VA hospitals. As we covered last year in the Homeless Voice from a TV show that brought undercover surveillance cameras into a VA hospital that showed how bad the establishments were taking care of the men and women who fought in the name of democracy. We knew reentry was a problem, have we corrected it? Do we think our soldiers have changed over time? We at the Homeless Voice will be lobbing governmental leaders so they can make change for these vets coming back from Iraq that they will have some sort of life. If President Bush wants to put the soldiers in the line of action then he better have America in an action stance ready to assist the veterans coming back to their homeland. We at the Homeless Voice are asking you readers to write to your members of Congress and ask them to
please make sure reentry programs are better, disability benefits come faster, and make sure that homeless shelters will have the beds to take care of them. Written By: Lois Cross See letter writing tips on back cover
Back From Iraq -- and Out on the Streets NEW YORK - Veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts are now showing up in the nation's homeless shelters. While the numbers are still small, they're steadily rising, and raising alarms in both the homeless and veterans' communities. The concern is that these returning veterans - some of whom can't find jobs after leaving the military, others of whom are still struggling psychologically with the war - may be just the beginning of an influx of new veterans in need. Currently, there are 150,000 troops in Iraq and 16,000 in Afghanistan. More than 130,000 have already served and returned home. So far, dozens of them, like Herold Noel, a married father of three, have found themselves sleeping on the streets, on friends' couches, or in their cars within weeks of returning home. Two years ago, Black Veterans for Social Justice (BVSJ) in the borough of Brooklyn, saw only a handful of recent returnees. Now the group is aiding more than 100 Iraq veterans, 30 of whom are homeless. "It's horrible to put your life on the line and then come back home to nothing, that's what I came home to: nothing. I didn't know where to go or where to turn," says Mr. Noel. "I thought I was alone, but I found out there are a whole lot of other soldiers in the same situation. Now I want people to know what's really going on." After the Vietnam War, tens of thousands of veterans came home to a hostile culture that offered little gratitude and inadequate services, particularly to deal with the stresses of war. As a result, tens of thousands of Vietnam veterans still struggle with homelessness and drug ad-
diction. Veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars are coming home to a very different America. While the Iraq war remains controversial, there is almost unanimous support for the soldiers overseas. And in the years since Vietnam, more than 250 nonprofit veterans' service organizations have sprouted up, many of them created by people like Peter Cameron, a Vietnam veteran who is determined that what happened to his fellow soldiers will not happen again. But he and dozens of other veterans' service providers are concerned by the increasing numbers of new veterans ending up on streets and in shelters. Part of the reason for these new veterans' struggles is that housing costs have skyrocketed at the same time real wages have remained relatively stable, often putting rental prices out of reach. And for many, there is a gap of months, sometimes years, between when military benefits end and veterans benefits begin. "We are very much committed to helping veterans coming back from this war," says Mr. Cameron, executive director of Vietnam Veterans of California. "But the [Department of Veterans Affairs] already has needs it can't meet and there's a lot of fear out there that programs are going to be cut even further." Beyond the yellow ribbons Both the Veterans Administration and private veterans service organizations are already stretched, providing services for veterans of previous conflicts. For instance, while an estimated 500,000 veterans were homeless at some time during 2004, the VA had the resources to tend to only 100,000 of them. "You can have all of the yellow ribbons on cars that say 'Support Our Troops' that you want, but it's when they take off the uniform and transition back to civilian life that they need support the most," says Linda Boone, executive director of The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. After the Vietnam con-
We Need RV's and boats. They will be used to provide social services during an emergency for COSAC's disaster relief services.
“The United States of America should have learned off of the Vietnam veterans.” flict, it was nine to 12 years before veterans began showing up at homeless shelters in large numbers. In part, that's because the trauma they experienced during combat took time to surface, according to one Vietnam veteran who's now a service provider. Doctors refer to the phenomenon as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A recent study published by the New England Journal of Medicine found that 15 to 17 percent of Iraq vets meet "the screening criteria for major depression, generalized anxiety, or PTSD." Of those, only 23 to 40 percent are seeking help - in part because so many others fear the stigma of having a mental disorder. Many veterans' service providers say they're surprised to see so many Iraq veterans needing help so soon. "This kind of inner city, urban guerrilla warfare that these veterans are facing probably accelerates mental-health problems," says Yogin Ricardo Singh, director of the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program at BVSJ. "And then there's the soldier's mentality: Asking for help is like saying, 'I've failed a mission.' It's very hard for them to do." Beyond PTSD and high housing costs, many veterans also face an income void, as they search for new jobs or wait for their veterans benefits to kick in. When Mr. Noel was discharged in December of 2003, he and his family had been living in base housing in Georgia. Since they were no longer eligible to live there, they began the search for a new home. But Noel had trouble landing a job and the family moved to New York, hoping for help from a family member. Eventually, they split up: Noel's wife and infant child moved in with his sister-in-law, and his twins were sent to relatives in Florida. Noel slept in his car, on the streets, and on friend's couches. Last spring he was diagnosed with PTSD, and though he's currently in treatment, his disability claim is still being (Continued on page 9)
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ture shock from the military to the civilian world hit me," she says. "I was depressed for months. I couldn't sleep. I couldn't eat. The worst thing wasn't the war, it was coming back, because nobody understood why I was the way I was." Ms. Goodwin was determined not to sleep on the streets, and so eventually went into the New York City shelter system where, after being shuffled from shelter to shelter, she was told she was ineligible for help. But media attention changed that, and she was able to obtain a rent voucher. With others' generosity, she also found a job. She's now attending college and working with other veterans who are de-
(Continued from page 8)
processed. Unable to keep a job so far, he's had no steady income, although an anonymous donor provided money for him to take an apartment last week. He expects his family to join him soon. 'Nobody understood ... the way I was' Nicole Goodwin is another vet diagnosed with PTSD who has yet to receive disability benefits. Unable to stay with her mother, she soon found herself walking the streets of New York, with a backpack full of her belongings and her 1-year-old daughter held close. "When I first got back I just wanted to jump into a job and forget about Iraq, but the cul-
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ead this and make a copy for your files in case you need to refer to it someday. Maybe we should all take some of his advice! A corporate attorney sent the following out to the employees in his company. 1. The next time you order checks have only your initials (instead of first name) and last name put on them. If someone takes your checkbook, they will not know if you sign your checks with just your initials or your first name, but your bank will know how you sign your checks. 2. When you are writing checks to pay on your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the "For" line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check processing channels won't have access to it. 3. Put your work phone # on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a PO Box, use that instead of your home address. If you do not have a PO Box, use your work address. Never have your SS# printed on your checks. (DUH!) You can add it if it is necessary. But if you have it printed, anyone can get it. 4. Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. I also carry a photocopy of my passport when I travel either here or •
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Batteries all sizes
Solar panel for our solar system
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Copy paper
Envelopes... big yellow ones and regular white ones for mail; all sizes
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Medical bandages
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Paper towels Toilet paper Lunch bags
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Dinner plates Bowls Coffee mugs
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Pens
TV’s
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Bleach Flashlights Generator Extension cords
Emergency exit light
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150 gallons of white or yellow outdoor paint
Tumblers
Bug bombs and roach motels
Silverware
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easy, it takes time." By Alexandra Marks, The Christian Science Monitor
I was advised to do this, almost two weeks after the theft, all the damage had been done. There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves' purchases, none of which I knew about before placing the alert. Since then, no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my wallet away. (This weekend someone turned it in). It seems to have stopped them dead in their tracks. Now, here are the numbers you always need to contact about your wallet, etc., being stolen: 1.) Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 2.) Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742 3.) Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 4.) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271 We pass along jokes on the Internet; we pass along just about everything. But if you are willing to pass this information along, it could really help someone that you care about.
Ketchup and mustard
Plastic drinking cups
Medical tape
Band aids regular types
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Tampons
Bottles of alcohol and peroxide
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termined to go to Washington with their stories. "When soldiers get back, they should still be considered military until they can get on their feet," she says. "It's a month-to-month process, trying to actually function again. It's not
abroad. We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed on us in stealing a name, address, Social Security number, credit cards. Unfortunately, I, an attorney, have firsthand knowledge because my wallet was stolen last month. Within a week, the thief of thieves ordered an expensive monthly cell phone package, applied for a VISA credit card, had a credit line approved to buy a Gateway computer, received a PIN number from DMV to change my driving record information online, and more. But here's some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know: 1. We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately. But the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them. 2. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one.) But here's what is perhaps most important of all: (I never even thought to do this.) 3. Call the 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately to place fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the Internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. By the time
Liquid spray bandage
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Get your yearly subscription for the Homeless Voice. Call 954-410-6275 or fill out form on page 3
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Tylenol
Light bulbs Plungers for toilets
Aspirin Cough syrup
Zantac or Tums Candy bars by the box
Lays potato chips; individual bags
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Folding chairs; metal
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Paint sealer
Throat and flu medicine
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Towels and wash cloths
Canned Soda
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Lysol Bug Spray
Cleaning products Hygiene products
Gift certificates for grocery or gasoline
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The Voice of the Homeless
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HOMELESS VOICE
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was a delivery boy for the office, his dad he looked so adorable in his tight w a s jeans, and he had the greenest n e v e r eyes. I was taken by his charming there for way and his knockout smile. But him and I had my future all planned out, I how his wanted to get a small business m o t h e r going so I was busy trying to fin- w o r k e d ish my classes, I had no time for all the time just to put food on the getting into a relationship now, I table. He had touched my heart, was not ready, besides I was and when he asked me if I could include him in my life plan and waiting for my Prince Charming. I had dreamt of him since marry him, I said yes. I conI was a little girl. I would know vinced myself that although I had him as soon as I saw him. Every not seen him as my prince charmday I would see David, I would ing in the beginning he actually was, I was hooked sign for the package and he would “I confronted him head over heals in love, I had found him flirt, the more I tried to ignore him about it and that at last. We had a the more persistent was the first time modest wedding, a he would get. As he hit me.” few of his family and weeks went by I a few of mine; we found my resistance faltering when it came to also had some mutual friends David. Soon we began to date. I from the office. For the first year have to admit we had fun to- of our marriage all seemed to go gether. He would send me flow- fairly well. Sure we had disagreeers he would take me to the mov- ments but nothing we could not ies all picked out by me, and he handle. One day David came was always complimenting me on everything. I had confided in home very upset, he told me he him regarding my goals and my had just lost his job, I tried to dreams for my future, he had told comfort him telling him not to me about his life as a child, how worry, that maybe this was a good opportunity to get a better job, he lashed out at me, and I had never seen him so angry before. I guess that was the beginning of the end. Weeks went by and David had not found another job, he said he was trying but anytime I would try to help him he would get angry at me, I COULD NOT take his attitude Donate Online or anymore so I confronted him We may Send check or about it and that was the first need you time he hit me. money order to: to pull over I could not believe this P.O. Box 292577 and make was happening to me, he told me Davie, Fl 33329 how sorry he was that it would a donation never happen again, that he was just really worried about his job situation. I loved him, so I forgave him. Two years have gone by since that incident; it seems like twenty years though. He has had a lot of jobs that he seems never to be able to keep for one reason or another. I had to stop my classes and get a full time job so So please do not get mad at our we could pay our bills. When he comes home now he is usually vendors if you are holding up money and drunk, and I’m always waiting they do not come to your car. for the other shoe to drop. I have • I know this will be a big pain tried to leave him several times, • We can only do medians for now but he always finds me and if he • We are going to court doesn’t threaten me he makes me feel guilty, because he says it’s my fault he is this way. Sometimes I believe him; that I’m too high and mighty that I expect too much from him. All I can seem to do lately is hide in the closet, so he won’t find me so he won’t hit me anymore.
s I sat on the floor of my bedroom closet, I stared at all the shoes next to me. I looked up and saw all my clothes hanging. New clothes I hadn’t worn yet or never would wear, old dresses that I never had the heart to throw away, because they were out of fashion or too small for me, hoping that some day they would fit me or come back in style. I felt cold and lost, I was afraid to come out of this place I had created in my mind as a short-term safe space. I opened the door slightly; I was looking for my husband David, to see if he had gone. I realized that he had left, as I walked around our little apartment nothing was in its place. The whole place was a complete mess. David and I had been in another fight, one of many that had left me bruised and broken hearted; I could not please him anymore. I felt so alone and so ashamed. I remember the first time I saw David. I was working in a medical office part-time so I could pay for the books I needed for the business course I was taking in the community college. He
Cities are Changing and want us off the street
Looking for Volunteers Call the Homeless Voice 954-410-6275
I don’t want to hear his apologies anymore I did not want to go to the hospital with a broken bone again; I didn’t know how many more excuses I could come up with at my work. As I keep walking around the apartment like a lost puppy, I head for the bathroom and when I look in the mirror I can’t believe my eyes, who is that woman in the mirror? Where is that strong person with so many goals so many aspirations? How wrong I had been to think that my prince charming was David, where did I go wrong, why did I keep blaming myself, this is not whom I was or wanted to be, it was not me at fault, I should not be ashamed, David should be, and he needed help. As I washed all my bruises I kept praying, dear god give me the strength to help David and help myself. I did just that, I got in my car and went to the nearest church, I had never been a devout anything but I knew something was happening to me inside, I knew I had to break this circle that was destroying my life. Through the church I visited I got help; I found out that I was not the only one with this problem. I managed to get David to a counselor, and he joined AA. I needed someone to talk to and I did. I got a divorce from David, every once in a while I talk to him to see how he is doing, but I cant look back anymore, I know that there are a lot of women out there whose story won’t end so happily. That is why my new goals are not business related anymore, but to help other women who are in need as I was. Most women go through life waiting for their Knight in shining Armor or their Prince charming, they don’t need to, like the song goes, look inside and find the hero in you. The Beginning. BY MARY LOU GONZALEZ
HOME DEPOT GIFT CARDS HOME DEPOT GIFT CARDS PLEASE AND THANK YOU
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Volume 6, Issue 5
VOICE OF THE HOMELESS
We are looking for churches and/or other organizations to get involved by feeding our sheep two times a month. Call 954-924-3571
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ters were horrible. I was a homeless child trying to find a place I bewonder how many of you reading this right now feel somehow longed. People who really wanted me, loved me, accepted me. I never alone? Maybe like you just don't quite fit in? I don't mean exclu- did find that in my childhood because I was just not lucky enough to find it. sively with your loved ones or family. How about If only there were a place like the Cosac Founwalking into a party where you feel ill at ease or walk“One dollar is the dation back then. There is now, so please when you see ing into a meeting where you feel like something is NOT being said. How about a new school or a new first of many steps our people out there selling the Homeless Voice. Have open heart. One dollar is the first of many steps job? If you have ever had these feelings before than to helping so many an to helping so many people. Remember many have travyou should be able to relate to any homeless individual. eled a very long lonely road to get to this place in their Because this, in most cases was their life. They have people.� lives. never felt like they fit in. No family, no support, no A place they finally feel they belong. A family, a haven, the love. Simply a number in a file. If they stayed in a home where they were not wanted, they were probably abused but put up with it out of end of their long lonely road. Please the next time you see one of our people doing their job, fear, guilt, and some strange sense of loyalty. When I was a child I grew up in what I like to call the norm of remember when you felt like you didn't quite belong. Think about the a dysfunctional family. There was plenty of physical abuse and verbal journeys we all take through life and how some of us are so blessed abuse. II was placed in the states custody., then sent from foster home with love and family, while others struggle alone to make it through to foster home. I never really fit in, I was not trusted because I was a this life. Then do what is in your heart. "foster kid" so I ran away A LOT. Jennie Luznar I slept in corn fields, in public rest rooms, behind gas stations. IvorySpirit10@aol.com The summers weren't bad (except for the mosquito bites) but the win-
HELP PAY OFF OUR MORTGAGE We need just 36,233 people to send in a check for $20.00, Or 14,493 people to send in a check for $50.00, Or 7,247 people to send in a check for $100.00, Or 725 people to send in a check for $1,000, Or Just one wonderful person or business to send a check for the entire $724,650.00 Remember the donation is tax deductible!! Please send your checks to:
The COSAC Building Fund P.O. Box 292-577 Davie, Florida 33329 We do thank you
W
e need your help with our building fund. We are getting closer and closer to reaching our goal. How can you help? 3 easy ways to help. 1.) get your church or school involved in a penny drive 2.) check out page 2 and help with the friends of the homeless column. 3.) donate directly to the building fund.
a y off ant to p is We w th rtgage this mo eam we d as a t it y ea r a n can do We only need 725 people, organizations and institutions to each send in their 1000.00. We have the ability to pay off this building.
Mail your check to: Cosac Foundation Burn that Mortgage Fund!! P.O. Box 292577 Davie, Florida 33329 Phone: 954-924-3571
WE’VE MADE A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION COME JOIN US
Typed letters are much easier to read. DO put your name and address on both the envelope and the letter. If the envelope gets lost, and your address doesn't appear in the letter, you probably won't get a response. Also, include your telephone number in case a staff member needs to contact you. DON'T use paper other than standard white paper, 8 1/2 by 11. Also, don't put lots of clips and staples in your letter. If you must send a lot of documents, use a binder clip and remove any staples. Everything you send -- especially if you're asking for assistance -- may go through a copier. Colored paper doesn't copy well, and non-standard paper or paper with lots of staples may get mangled. DO be positive in presenting your ideas or in asking for assistance. You're much more likely to be heard if you use positive, friendly language rather than rancor or abuse. DON'T be afraid to speak out on important issues. Your Congressman values your opinion! After all you hired him/ her. DO visit your Congressman or Senator's web page if you'd rather send e-mail. Offices handle e-mail differently; some have a standard address, others will have you use a form, and others don't even have e-mail.
Why are we being so careful to try for this year only? ‘Cause my friends, we are running our of room. The Inn is full and has been for the longest time! We need to buy an additional, smaller complex.. SO...once we pay off the current mortgage we can expand. If you are a church you can do one special collection to send in your $1000. If you are a student .. have your school do a penny drive. If you are a big business or small business take up a collection and send in your $1000. We only need those 725 groups of people to do this. I, Sean Cononie, hereby give you permission to do your own fundraising plan to help us pay off this mortgage. Please do not get involved unless you come here and see what you are helping. I am confident that once you see what we do you will, with all your heart, help the people with our shelter. I say the word "our " because this place is not mine, it is the community’s. Thanks
Some Tips on writing your elected representatives. You can find out your representatives information including address, e-mail and phone number at www.congress.org Keep it to 200-300 words. Do’s and Don’ts Here are some general do's and don'ts when writing your Congressman and Senators: DO use the right address. The address for all Congressman is: United States House of Representatives, Washington D.C. 20515. The address for all Senators is: United States Senate, Washington D.C. 20510. DON'T send mail to a Congressman who doesn't represent your district or a Senator who doesn't represent your home state. The exception to this would be sending mail to a Senator or Congressman who's a member of a key legislative committee that's considering a bill you're interested in. DO take the time to make sure you contact the individuals who represent you in Congress. DON'T write your letters in longhand if at all possible.
