Joel John Roberts
Southern California
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Thursday, November, 19, 2009
Future Homeless Shelters? Walmart, McDonalds, and Target




I’m not an avid fan of those big-box stores, also known as Walmart and Target. I don’t remember the last time I sat down in a fast-food joint for a quick, calorie-packed meal. But I’m not surprised that these American institutions are so popular.

It’s all about convenience. Walk into the local Walmart superstore, and you can buy everything. Shampoo, a box of cereal, and diapers. A can of paint, car wax, and the latest Nintendo video game. A pair of socks, camping gear, and a book. All in one place. You can even buy a McDonalds Big Mac in my local Walmart.

So the managers of these convenience stores and restaurants are noticing a sad trend. Like public libraries and hospital emergency rooms, these consumer establishments are attracting homeless people.

Why not? They appear to be better than the local downtown shelter. Brand new furniture, clothing, an abundance of food, video games, books, pleasant music. From the harsh realities of street life, to the surreal existence in a Target superstore, you almost feel like you’ve died and gone to heaven.

As long as the mall cop doesn’t catch you. Just stay out of sight of the rented security guard and you’re practically living a middle-class existence.

Of course, these stores lack one convenient product—assistance to help people overcome barriers that then lead to permanent housing.

But do you really need your own house, if your home is Walmart?

(Pic from http://sanfrancisco.grubstreet.com/)



Sandy: Even if someone has a 'job', that doesn't mean they can afford even a meager $900. studio apartment!!! (in a decent neighborhood)
Posted 2009-11-27 21:03:52
rhonda radomski: Why not give them jobs..so they can get housing?
Posted 2009-11-19 13:15:17
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