When the economy is in a slump no one is exempt from the perils of drug abuse and homelessness. In difficult economic times it is even more important to support such shelters and non-profit programs. “Case management services work,” commented Bepko when asked if she felt the homelessness problem was beyond saving. “We had a gentleman who had been using drugs and living on the streets for years. One of our nurses engaged him everyday simply by saying, ‘Hello.’ This went on for a year. Eventually she was able to strike up a conversation with him. He became receptive to our services and is now stable, receiving counseling and living on his own.”

A great majority of the homeless in Chinatown are involved in some form of drugs or alcohol; in many cases a form of crystal meth otherwise known to locals as “Batu.” The Batu epidemic in Chinatown was made national by bail bondsman Duane “Dog” Chapman and his immensely popular television series Dog the Bounty Hunter. The television program shed some light on the subject, but the war on homelessness and drugs continues to be one that we appear to be losing. How can we help these individuals? Many of whom are a part of our families, friends, neighbors and lives.

“Writing your congressmen or representatives is a good way to start. Make sure that the shelters and non-profits in the area continue to get support,” says Bepko. It requires little effort and can be done with a few clicks on the computer. Bepko also added that volunteering at a soup kitchen or clothing drive doesn’t cost anything but time. Educating the public is a big help as it forces the politicians to take the issues more seriously.

If you are approached by a homeless individual, it is alright to engage them; loneliness can be one of the most difficult attributes of living on the street. More often than not, avoid giving them money. A better solution would be to give them food or information on how to get connected to supportive services. The best way to combat homelessness is to stop it before it starts. If you know of anyone in a difficult situation, encourage them to get in touch with some sort of help before the problem becomes overwhelming. Being a resource is a powerful way to aid in the war on homelessness.


ホームレス
ホノルルのダウンタウン、中華街はもう長い間そこに住むホームレスたちのコミュニティーで有名だ。夜遊び好きなハワイの子達の中ではもうなれた存在になっている。名前まで知っている子達までいる時もある。そのホームレスの大半は良い人たちでただアルコールやドラッグ中毒で苦しんでいる人たちだ。もし彼らにあうことがあって話しかけられたらお金は出来るだけ渡さず食べ物やシェルターえのいき方などを教えてあげてください。