A Call for Compassion
In light of the recent tragic death of a man experiencing homelessness in Marathon Park, I feel compelled to address the disturbing and callous comments that have surfaced online in response to this loss in our community. The dismissive remark — such as “Most homeless are addicts who don’t want to do better for themselves” and “He didn’t want help” — are not only harmful but also fail to recognize the complex realities that many individuals face. These generalizations are not only inaccurate but also shameful in their lack of empathy.
It is always a good time to take care of each other. Our communities are made stronger when we show compassion for our neighbors, especially those who are most vulnerable. It is a privilege to care for one another, and we should not shy away from that responsibility. We must remember that we are all closer to hardship than we may care to admit — one health crisis, one unexpected expense, and one personal loss can leave any of us in a precarious position. According to a Bank of America study, nearly half of American households are living paycheck to paycheck in 2024, a trend that has grown over the past five years. Homelessness is not a distant reality for some; it can be a sudden, crushing event that anyone could face.
Some have pointed to existing resources, which is true — there are programs and services available for those in need. But we must recognize that the existence of resources doesn’t always mean they are accessible, sufficient or effective for everyone who needs them. People are doing incredible work to address homelessness and its underlying causes, but that doesn’t mean we can’t do more. The point here is not to undermine the efforts that have been made but to advocate for improvements where current resources fall short.
Moreover, we need to stop using the excuse that “these people” don’t “want” help. While some individuals may choose not to engage with support services, we cannot overlook the many who do seek assistance but face significant barriers — whether it’s a lack of transportation, restrictive eligibility requirements, fear of stigmatization, or simply not knowing where to turn. It’s not enough to claim that resources exist if those in need cannot access them, or if those resources don’t address the full spectrum of needs.
We must also look beyond the individual and recognize the larger issue at hand. While this tragedy centers on one person, it reflects a deeper and broader crisis. Even if this gentleman declined help, many who want and need assistance are unable to access it because the resources are insufficient or unavailable. Addiction, homelessness and trauma are not just personal struggles — they are symptoms of systemic issues like the lack of affordable housing, inadequate mental health care, and underfunded support programs.
Homelessness is not a moral failing. It’s a complex issue that requires a community-wide, compassionate response. It’s time we shift from judgment to advocacy, working together to create real solutions. We all share the responsibility of ensuring that those in need have access to the help they deserve. Let’s do better, for the good of our entire community.