Outreach on SKID ROW

So a couple weeks back Amanda and I got the opportunity to tag along with a "Street Team" from the National Veterans Foundation. It was a great trip. We hit LA's infamous 'Skid Row' with a van full of volunteers and boxes of pogy bait. We were on the scene to handout snacks and water to all those in need, but we had our eyes peeled for veterans who were in need of assistance. The NVF does some incredible things to help veterans who are down and out get back on their feet. Statistics say that 1 in 4 homeless are veterans and with our current campaigns those numbers are expected to climb. It's an issue we're looking to cover with coming ITB episodes. The NVF staff is more than capable when they head out on their regular outreach ventures. All of them have spent time in uniform and many have themselves spent time on the streets. It was great to see Tyrone, Mike and Carlton in action. They really pickup on the vibe of the streets and know the terrain.

We ran into vets from all the services and I shook hands and talked with several former Marines, many from the Gulf War era. Of course not all those who laid claim to time in uniform were legit. I think many thought the handouts were only for vets. You knew they were bluffing if there was any hesitation when asked what service they were in. I had to pull a few punk cards, but we weren't there to discriminate. We gave NVF cards with the 1800 helpline number to anyone we talked to and told them pass it along to veterans they knew.

I think it's easy to look at the homeless like animals. It's not until we've shaken their hand and heard their story, that we realize how a few bad choices or one hard break can spiral you into a life you thought you'd never lead. Makes you think.