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Miriam’s Kitchen to Cease ID Services in 2016 | pg 3 A Closer Look at Homeless Encampment Closures | pgs 3-5

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Be Active in the Community! © STREET SENSE, INC 2015 StreetSense.org/calendar STREET SENSE 3 December 16 - 29, 2015 NEWS Miriam's Kitchen to drop I.D. referral services in 2016 By Olivia Aldridge, Editorial Intern

For years, Miriam’s Kitchen has been a The others are Foundry United Method- role in connecting homeless individuals ed to, thus removing the complication of resource for homeless individuals seeking ist Church and Chevy Chase Presbyterian with such services. According to Kathleen coordinating separate and often difficult- referrals for identification (I.D.) services Church (USA). Stephan, community resource and qual- to-plan trips to other agencies. Miriam’s in the District. The referrals support cli- Foundry provides an I.D. and Walk-in ity assurance coordinator at Bread for advocates for several key service improve- ents with instructions and fi-nancial as- Ministry every Friday and on the first and the City, providers such as Bread play an ments from the city, including expanded sistance (to pay fees) as they pursue the third Saturday of each month for up to important role in helping cli-ents under- access to the voucher for non-driver I.D. government documents through regular 36 individuals with appointments. Chevy stand the processes they will have to go and the creation of similar vouchers to ob- chan-nels. Beginning January 1, Miriam’s Chase Presbyterian’s Transi-tional Assis- through in order to receive new identifica- tain birth certificates and driver’s licenses. will no longer offer this service. tance Program is open Tuesday, Wednesday tion documents. Part of the Interagency Council on Bob Glennon, director of social ser- and Friday mornings, offering 15 ap-point- “It's difficult for folks to get this infor- Homelessness Emergency Response and vices at Miriam’s Kitchen, explained the ments per day. Both churches offer assis- mation. The system’s not transparent,” Shelter Operations committee (ERSO) reasoning behind de-cision. “Our Mission tance in obtaining birth certificates and said Stephan, who noted that there was agenda is to consider improvements to at Miriam’s is to end chronic homeless- D.C. non-driver identification cards. These a marked increase in the past year in the the application process for I.D. and birth ness in D.C. Part of the decision was how cards are for individuals who do not qualify number of requests made to Bread for certificates. DHS is working with the Dis- we want to spend our time and energy to receive drivers licenses, such as adoles- help of this kind. Stephan also emphasized trict Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) toward that mission,” Glennon said. He cents or people who cannot drive. the importance of attaining proper I.D. for to amend the “Social Service Proof of added that as a result of this decision not Due to the limited number of ap- people experiencing homelessness. Residency” form to allow I.D. applicants to provide I.D. referral services, Miriam’s pointments available at these locations, “Not having a photo I.D. creates extra to use a family, friend or non-residential will be able to have a greater impact with it is unclear if they will be able to meet barriers in an already difficult system,” service provider’s address in their appli- other initiatives. In particular, it plans to the increased demand for I.D. services she said. cation, according to a December 8 let- redouble efforts toward providing clients when Miriam’s new policy goes into ef- Advocates from Miriam’s Kitchen and ter from DHS Director Laura Zeilinger to with stable housing. fect in 2016. other organizations such as Bread for the Councilmember Grosso. At present, Miriam’s is one of only three Organizations that are certified by DHS City believe that a systemic change in the Glennon is hopeful that Miriam’s deci- District organizations certified by the to provide clients with identification ser- way I.D. requests are processed in the Dis- sion will add urgency to the city’s progress Department of Human Services (DHS) to vice referrals must have a system in place trict is needed. in making the process more accessible and provide referrals for people needing assis- to receive mail on behalf of clients. Few According to Glennon, these services transparent. tance to obtain identification documents, social service providers in D.C. have this would ideally be available at whatever “We’re still very committed to the ad- birth certificates, and police clearances. ability, but they are able to play a limited agency an individu-al is already connect- vocacy end of I.D. issues,” he said. Do I Have the Right to Avoid Shelter? By Eric Falquero notice telling him that by unlawfully occu- satellite tent-clusters such as under the K outreach workers spent the day informing Editor-in-Chief pying public space, he created an “actual Street Bridge, to inform residents of the campers that they would have to move or potential hazard to the public.” The cleanup. “Eviction…cleanup, call it what before Monday, November 16, and assess- Tim moved under the K Street Bridge orange notice stated that Tim’s belong- you will,” Tim mused. ing them for potential housing placement. on November 29 after Federal Park Police ings would be removed by the District if It seemed to Streznewski that “the discovered him in Rock Creek Park and he did not do so himself before 2 p.m. on The First Sweep deputy mayor had done an about-face.” informed him that he could not continue Wednesday, December 2. “There are a huge range of opinions camping there. On December 2 Tim and the other The November 20 cleanup was first at- about homelessness in our community,” “Common sense when you’re living out campers learned their eviction was tempted on Monday, November 16. As re- Streznewski told Street Sense. “I had one here tells you to find someplace that’s a postponed until the next day. “I really quired by District law, the general cleanup person say ‘I pay too much in taxes to have windbreak, find someplace that covers don’t know what they expect,” Tim said. notices were posted more than 14 days in to look at this.” On the other hand, people you from wet. The logical place is under a “They’re not giving us any alternatives. advance. It was widely reported in media have said ‘they are our neighbors too.’” bridge,” he said, explaining why he chose They’re saying you’ve gotta be out of coverage of the cleanups that these notic- The FBA has been trying to reconcile the new location. “Other than that you’ve here, but not suggesting any other place es informed campers to vacate the area by these viewpoints and get all members gotta look for a doorway, and very few of to go, other than the usual ‘have you the posted date: November 12. But most working toward tangible solutions. Six those are deep enough to provide any real tried the shelters?’” He was very clear neighborhood residents, housed and un- months ago, the association created a cover, let alone a windbreak.” on why shelters are unacceptable to housed, believed that only trash and debris task force specifically to address ending A week before Tim set up his home under him: in addition to being infested with would be targeted for cleanup, not people. homelessness in Foggy Bottom. the bridge, that area experienced a sweep bedbugs, shelters are hotspots for theft, When Foggy Bottom Association (FBA) “We want to actually solve problems, from Department of Public Works (DPW). On disease and violence. President Marina Streznewski saw the not just move them to somebody else’s November 20, sanitation trucks gobbled up “If someone wants to prey on you they DDOT notices, she called the office of neighborhood,” Streznewski explained. tents, mattresses, camp chairs and bags at know exactly where you are. At least Brenda Donald, Deputy Mayor of Health “These people are living here for the “Camp Watergate,” a patch of land under when you’re out on the street, you have and Human Services (DMHHS). It was same reasons we are: it’s a safe com- the Whitehurst Freeway, just down Rock a little wiggle room to not have your Streznewski’s understanding that city munity, convenient for transit and close Creek Parkway from the Kennedy Center stuff stolen,” said Tim. “Obviously, I un- protocol during Hypothermia Season—No- to healthcare.” and across Virginia Avenue from the Water- derstand [why people want the campers vember 1 to March 31 in the District—is to Installing public trash cans located near gate complex, where more than 40 men and to move]: if you own property you don’t leave in place tents, blankets or anything encampments is one initiative the task women had been living in tents. really want a [virtual] homeless shelter else that can keep people warm during force had begun working on. And at the “You are devils, you are devils, you are where you reside.” that time. The DMHHS office confirmed to November ANC 2A meeting, a resolution devils!” one man yelled at DPW employees The second sweep of that area in two Streznewski that the cleanup would re- to seek a solution to the toilet problem as they loaded a couple grocery carts into weeks happened December 3. Waterproof move only trash. was submitted by the People for Fairness the trucks to be crushed. notices similar to what Tim had received Nevertheless, on Friday, November 13 Coalition and approved by the FBA. Tim returned to his tent on Monday, No- had been posted in many locations around Department of Human Services (DHS) and Continued on next page... vember 30, to find a waterproof orange the main encampment, including several Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) ...Continued from previous page: Media inquiries regarding the camp were required to flow through the deputy “We’re trying to figure out the toilet mayor’s office. Street Sense’s questions issue. Porta-potties can get expensive for regarding shelter conditions, whether or the long term, so we want to look for an- not tents should be confiscated during hy- other solution,” Streznewski said. “Obvi- pothermia season, and if/when other city ously, we don’t have the resources that encampments would be handled similarly, the government does, but we can achieve went unanswered. little things. We’ve received quite a bit of “You can read into it how you want,” said support from DHS, the mayor’s office and Tim, referring to the lack of transparency. the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). They’ve been great about answering ques- Political Will tions – what’s against the law, what’s not, etc. We’re trying to be helpful.” Advocates for the homeless have criti- Around 10 a.m. Monday, November 16, a cized the encampment cleanups and sanitation truck arrived and several tents have contacted the D.C. Council and the across K Street from the main encampment The entire former-encampment area under Whitehurst Freeway, from Virginia Av- Bowser administration requesting, among enue up to K Street NW is now fenced off. PHOTO BY ERIC FALQUERO were taken down. However, DPW workers other things, that the District “follow at the main camp only raked and picked up getting apartments before anyone was When Friday came, no one had moved the encampment protocol created by the trash. Several homeless campers pitched in evicted; this was happening on federal land into housing, but the campers’ 48 hours Deputy Mayor, including the provision that and worked alongside them. and D.C. didn’t have jurisdiction to move were up. Notices of infraction were be- prohibits the removal of life saving mate- In an email to Street Sense that morn- anybody; if someone’s tent was touched ing distributed and personal effects were rials including blankets and tents.” ing, Jenna Cevasco, spokeswoman for against their will, they could file assault being put into storage or destroyed - de- Until now, the Bowser administration Deputy Mayor Donald, wrote that “there charges. All three of those statements are pending on the items’ perceived value and has been predominantly lauded by the have been complaints from the neighbor- false, but were believed true at one time each individual’s level of cooperation. advocacy community for approving a data hood about this site for many years” and or another on Monday, November 16. Advocate Diana Pillsbury complained and community-driven 5-year plan to end cited “the increase in debris and tents in Minutes from a meeting that afternoon that even though Deputy Mayor Donald homelessness in the District and invest- recent weeks” as reasons for the clean- state that the D.C. Interagency Council claimed translation services were avail- ing an unprecedented amount of funds in up’s immediacy. on Homelessness (ICH) Outreach Policy/ able during this process, nothing was homeless services for FY2016. Indeed, Google Street View images show Protocol working group identified that provided in writing for the at-least six Councilmember At-Large David Grosso that the number of people sleeping at the there is an “issue with mixed messaging. Hispanic men who had been living there visited Camp Watergate during the Friday camp grew significantly in recent weeks. Not clear to outreach teams and/or indi- longer than anyone else. Pillsbury provid- sweep, and was the only council member Images from months prior showed only a viduals residing in encampments whether ed verbal translation on the spot. Several to visit the encampment during the three- handful of tents, which weren’t widely tents are being removed by DPW or indi- of the men expressed frustration. week process. available to the campers until Arnold Har- viduals are going to be ticketed and/or “Maybe one of the most heartbreaking Grosso told Street Sense he first noticed vey, a Waste Management employee from otherwise limited in their ability to access things about today was all the government tents along Interstate 395 and elsewhere Maryland, began giving them away through the area. Need clarity on whether tents workers who told me they didn’t want to more than a year ago. A staff member he his charity, God’s Connection Transition. are life-saving articles that will not be re- do it, they were under orders,” Pillsbury sent to check on the campers reported On Monday, November 16, outreach moved during Hypothermia season.” tweeted Friday. that they needed a lot of services, but workers arrived with a shelter transport The standoff on Monday, November 16, By the end of the sweep, only a handful they were clean; they had said very van to remind people that they had to resumed Tuesday morning. Some camp- of the 20-25 tents remained under White- clearly that they would like to move into leave and encourage them to seek shelter. ers skipped their routine of breakfast at hurst Freeway. a better situation but in the meantime, Some campers left the area but most stood nearby nonprofit Miriam’s Kitchen for fear A fence was installed on Saturday in the they felt much safer in their camp than their ground. Only two people got into the that city workers would swoop in while field where the camp had stood, not in- in shelters. van that day: a couple from Georgia who they were gone and dispose of tents and terfering with those who remained under “So we never raised it, I never sent a had been promised transportation assis- other supplies. 65-year-old Owen, who the freeway. letter,” Grosso said. “The Gray adminis- tance to return home with their two dogs. has been homeless for 14 years, was so The fenced-off area will be used to fa- tration kind of let it fly and didn’t do any- Deputy Mayor Donald accompanied the stressed by the prospect of another dis- cilitate cleanup and inspection for a por- thing. But for some reason Brenda Donald, van and spoke with several individuals in placement that he had to be checked tion of the sewer system adjacent to the over the past couple months, has decided an attempt to convince them to enter a into GW Hospital. Because there is no law Kennedy Center, according to John Lisle, that these [encampments] are unaccept- shelter. “Our concern is of course that [liv- against sleeping in public, only against a spokesman for DC Water. This mainte- able. Partly, I think people don’t like see- ing in the campsite] is not healthy, not san- doing so within a temporary abode, some nance has been needed since February and ing them. It’s kinda good if you ask me. I itary, and it is illegal,” Donald told WUSA9. campers packed up their tents and slept must occur before March 31, 2016. Per- want people to see people living on the No timeline, memo or speech was in the open in anticipation of the cleanup. mitting for the project began in October street. We should raise some alarms and given to residents regarding the camp’s Clarity came on Wednesday, November before initial DDOT camp cleanup notices put up neon signs that say ‘look at the fate. City workers, including the supervi- 18, when 48-hour eviction notices were were posted. It is linked to a stormwater failure of our society.’” sor on site, were expressly forbidden from posted around the camp. The next morn- backup in May 2014 that caused sewage to The council first heard about the clean- speaking to the press. At times there were ing, shelter vans arrived to take twelve overflow on the National Crescent Trail. up after Deputy Mayor Donald’s visit on more news crews on-site than outreach campers to view apartments. No construction or digging will occur at the afternoon of Monday, November 16, teams. The MPD officers that arrived “Word is, they’re coming by with keys the Camp Watergate site. It will be used according to Grosso. shortly after the sanitation truck were the for everyone,” a woman named Stefanie as a staging area for physical work and Like the advocates who have written- only city employees that would readily an- said while DHS workers called off names equipment storage in relation to the Ken- in about the camp closure, Grosso asked swer questions about their own presence. from the list. nedy Center maintenance. Deputy Mayor Donald to not do a blanket The officers said they weren’t there to That morning it seemed even more peo- “I think they could find another stag- closure of encampments across the city. move people—or to make a statement on ple had arrived after word got out about ing area,” said Miriam’s Kitchen Advocacy However, at the Mayor/Council Breakfast anyone’s behalf, they were quick to point the apartment tours the previous day. Specialist Jesse Rabinowitz in disbelief on Tuesday, November 24, encampment out—only to keep the peace. DHS and DBH New faces intermingled with those who when he learned the project details. closures were discussed briefly between continued to speak with campers. No one had been on-site since Monday. The rumor That was sweep number one, which did the mayor’s debrief on implementation seemed to know how to proceed, city that the plan was to house people, rather not bring an end to the mixed messages of the DC General family shelter’s clos- workers included. Everyone waited. than merely shelter them, was generating and general lack of information provided ing and a report on Mayor Bowser’s recent The rumor mill churned: everyone was hope and expectations. to campers and community members alike. business trip to China. STREET SENSE 5 December 16 - 29, 2015 NEWS “Our intent is there will be no more themselves and their belongings safer, tary veteran, has not. Housing was found expert in it, to know whether someone new tents,” said Mayor Bowser. Deputy sleep better, and get noticed so that they for a woman named Karissa and her cousin is safe or not when it gets cold out,” said Mayor Donald promised to continue out- could receive help. James. They were awaiting city workers Councilmember Grosso. “But I think we reach in an effort to convince campers to The camp sweeps have been an entirely to help move their belongings as the sec- could probably take our cue from folks “move on.” different sort of attention for homeless ond sweep wrapped up. who live on the street.” Ward 2 Councilmember Jack Evans sug- campers. Ironically, “the Hispanic commu- “Me and my cousin stood our grounds. A camper who wished to remain anony- gested fencing the entire area off. His nity” is who remains camping under the And let them know man, we can’t go mous stressed that campers look out for communications director, Tom Lipinski, freeway on-ramp today. Though at least to shelter, so you gotta place us some- each other. “All the homeless people here told Street Sense that Evans’ office has one man, Ramiro, has been told he will be where,” Karissa said. “If it’s not some- know each other. Maybe not the name, been contacted over a hundred times taken to look at an apartment this week. where, help us get a permit for a tent.” but the face. I know that guy, and he about the encampment, but not all com- Another man said on December 2 that he She described how comfortable sleeping knows that woman over there. So we all ments have been complaints. had been told a group of six men would on the bare carpet of their new apartment recognize and watch out for each other.” “The comments have ranged from neigh- receive placement in a house together. had been the night before. Now she’s A December 10 letter sent to the mayor bors coming up to Councilmember Evans By 2:15pm the next day, everything was looking for a school to enroll in. and D.C. Council from the People for Fair- at a restaurant to relate that individuals gone. The six men sat together on a knoll “GED is a must for me,” she said with a ness Coalition echoed these sentiments. have defecated in their lawns,” said Lipin- overlooking Camp Watergate with nothing smile. “If I can’t find a school, I’m trying “Many live in encampments because it is ski, “to concerns for the well-being of the left but a tarp and several bags. “There to find me a job.” the only place where they feel safe and individuals living in these tents.” is no house,” the same man said. “We all It came to light at a December 1 quar- supported and can keep their belongings Councilmember Evans was unavailable need housing.” terly meeting of the Interagency Council safe. Unlike the random strangers they to be interviewed but provided a state- They weren’t the only ones. on Homelessness that most of these hous- would encounter in a shelter, they have ment: “Homelessness and a lack of afford- Paul, a veteran of the U.S. Navy who ing placements have occurred “outside of formed a true community of people who able and safe shelter housing continue to has been camping in the area since ex- protocol.” That means that people were know and watch out for each other.” be very real problems for many people periencing family trouble in July, had housed independently of their score in “Nobody owes me anything out here. in the District. We know that it becomes been elsewhere applying for a job when a “coordinated entry” system that de- And I don’t expect anything. But the tent, more difficult to provide the critical wrap- the sanitation trucks arrived. He saw one termines how vulnerable and in-need of I really would have liked to have that, around services to individuals who are not truck over the hill as he returned, but by housing someone is compared with the man. When the wind starts blowing, it in shelters or permanent supportive hous- the time he got to his tent, everything rest of those in need. gets cold,” said Paul. “And once you get ing, and it’s my understanding that many had been disposed of. “I’m worried the city is housing the a chill on your bones… you ever see these of the people living in this encampment “I don’t even have a sleeping bag. most visible rather than the most vulner- guys walking around in layers and think to are chronically homeless. I support the I don’t even have a change of damn able,” Jesse Rabinowitz told Street Sense. yourself ‘man it’s hot out, how does he work the Mayor and the Interagency Coun- clothes,” Paul said an hour after the While some advocates and anonymous have all that stuff on?’ He’s just now get- cil on Homelessness are doing to try to cleanup occurred as he panhandled on K city officials have criticized this disregard ting the chill off his bones from 3 o’clock provide services for these individuals. On Street. “This is what I’m left with: a ra- for coordinated entry, Staff Attorney Ann in the morning.” a larger scale, the city is working quickly dio with dead batteries and no antenna. Marie Staudenmaier of the Washington A closed meeting was held Friday, De- to identify and create shelters across the That’ll keep me warm at night.” Legal Clinic for the homeless thinks it is cember 11 between advocates and city city to provide vital services to those in City officials say they’ve been working a moot point. officials, including Deputy Mayor Donald, our community that need them the most.” hard for months to connect with camp- “The coordinated entry system is im- to discuss improving how encampment Gunther Stern, executive director of ers, but Paul slipped through the cracks portant, but when people are literally evictions are handled. For now, continued Georgetown Ministry Center, has been pro- and had not spoken with a single outreach living outside because they have nowhere cleanups are still expected. viding street outreach in the surrounding worker by December 3. He blames staying safe to stay indoors, we believe they also community for 25 years. “I came here on the move during the day, not loitering deserve priority for housing placements,” Anyone who would like to claim their in 1990. There’s always been a thriving at the camp. Staudenmaier told Street Sense. “D.C. property should call Community Bridge, community here,” said Stern, who is ap- “I saw them putting up the notices. has more than adequate housing funds Inc to arrange for next-day delivery: proaching retirement. “[The city] keeps The understanding I had [from other available this year to house both groups 202-483-9339 - regardless of the loca- responding with solutions that cost a lot campers] was that we had an extension of people. It just needs to utilize those tion or permanence of your address. of money to keep people out. That could until we found placement,” Paul said. funds more efficiently.” Landlords can contact the D.C. be better spent to house people.” “But I guess they wanted to speed the Despite these agreements, advocates Department of Human Services at Over the years Stern has seen walls process up or something.” and people experiencing homelessness 202-671-4446 to participate in erected to block off under-bridge areas, The day of the sweep, Paul echoed agree that for the immediate future, in housing programs. spaces welded shut to further enclose the shelter complaints of other campers. lieu of housing or safe and secure shel- Olivia Aldridge, JC Diaz, Roberta those areas, and now fencing rented from “What I’m worried about now is how I’m ters, people should be allowed to stay in Haber, Dottie Kramer, Jonas Schau and a Maryland branch of SONCO Worldwide, going to stay warm tonight. I can’t go to a their tents. Alex Zielinski contributed to this report. which was added around the DC Water homeless shelter because I like to sleep. I “It’s really hard for me, not being an fencing after a second eviction on took don’t want to have to sleep with one eye place on Thursday, December 3. open. I’ll sleep out in the cold.” Despite seeing folks living in the shad- He has since obtained another tent, and ow of the freeway consistently for the is safeguarding its location. past 13 years, Stern confirmed that the Twenty-five of the estimated 40 camp- population drastically increased after the ers that were evicted were targeted for tents began to be donated. “It was [only] housing (though not actually housed) the Hispanic community until maybe six through DHS and DBH’s assessments; this months ago. [The number of campers] is progress, since they probably will be grew 10 -20 times that.” housed in the near future. There’s simply not enough housing available Where to Go In the two weeks between the first and second sweep, 10 people from the camp God’s Transition Connection founder had been housed, and one other had Arnold Harvey told The Washington Post been matched to a successfully inspected that he began distributing the tents apartment and was awaiting move-in. throughout D.C. and Maryland because Stefanie and her husband John have Paul with everything he had left after the second encampment cleanup. His tent and they helped people staying outside keep been housed. Tim has not. Paul, the mili- other belongings were disposed of while he was away. PHOTO BY ERIC FALQUERO STREET PAPER EXCLUSIVE: Pope Francis Encourages Homeless People to Fight For the Right to Work, Roof and Land Sacred Heart of Jesus, which I still carry with me every day. This medal - which is also a memento - is very good for me. Would you like to see it? [With a bit of difficulty, Pope Francis manages to pull out the medal, now com- pletely discolored after years of use.] With this, every day I think of her, and of how she suffered from poverty. And I think of all the others who have suffered. I wear it, and I use it to pray...

What is the Church’s message for those who are homeless? What is the concrete meaning of Christian solidarity for them? Two things come to mind. Jesus came in to our world without a home, and he chose poverty. Then, the Church seeks to embrace us all, and says that it is a right to have a roof over your head. Popular movements work toward the three Span- ish ‘t’s’:trabajo [work], techo [roof] and tierra [land]. The Church teaches that ev- ery person has the right to these three t’s.

You often call for heightened attention for the poor and for refugees. Are you not afraid that this might lead to a sort His Holiness Pope Francis meets formerly homeless street paper vendor Marc during an exclusive interview at the Vatican. of overload in the media and in society PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANK DRIES/STRAATNIEUWS/INSP.NGO in general? We all have the temptation - when we have to face an issue that is not pretty, By By Stijn Fens & Jan-Willem Wits hand, “How nice to have you here.” Close Did you play football, too? that is difficult to talk about, to say: “Oh, Straatnieuws - The Netherlands up, he gives the impression of a calm, Yes. let’s not talk about this anymore: this thing friendly man, who is at the same time is just too difficult.” I understand that the It is still early when we arrive at the ser- both energetic and precise. Once seated, Were you good? possibility of overload exists, but I do not vice entrance of the Vatican, to the left of he apologizes for speaking Italian, rather No. In Buenos Aires, those who played fear it. I must continue to speak about the Saint Peter’s Basilica. The Swiss Guards have than Dutch. We forgive him immediately. football like me are called pata dura. truth and about the way things are. been informed of our arrival, and let us pass. Which means having two left legs! But I We head to the Domus Sanctae Marthae, be- INSP: Straatnieuws interviews always played anyway; often I was the goalkeeper. It is your duty? cause that is where Pope Francis lives. The begin with a question about the street Yes, it is my duty. I feel it inside me. It Domus Sanctae Marthae is in all likelihood on which the interviewee grew up. Holy How did your personal commitment to is not a commandment, but as individuals the most unique three-star hotel in the Father, what do you remember about the poor begin? we all must do so. world. A large white building where cardinals that street? What images come into Yes, so many memories come to mind. and bishops reside while serving in or visiting your mind when you recall the streets A woman who worked in our home three Do you not fear that your support for the the Vatican, it is also the official residence of of your childhood? times a week to help my mother comes to homeless and other groups plagued by the cardinals during the Conclave. Pope Francis: From when I was one mind. She helped with the laundry, for ex- poverty might be exploited politically? Here, too, they are expecting us. Two la- year old to when I entered the seminary, ample. She had two children. They were How can the Church speak out so that it dies behind the reception desk, just like in I always lived on the same street. It was Italian, and had survived the war; they has influence and, at the same time, man- any hotel, kindly indicate a side door. The a simple neighborhood in Buenos Aires, were very poor, but they were very good age to steer clear of political posturing? meeting room has already been prepared. with one and two-story homes. There was people. And I have never forgotten that There are paths that lead to errors at It is a fairly large space, with a desk, a a small square, where we played football. woman. Her poverty struck me. that point. I would like to call attention to sofa, tables and chairs, and is the Pope’s I remember that I used to sneak out of We were not rich, normally we made two temptations. The Church must speak meeting room during the week. Then, the the house to play football with the boys it to the end of the month, but not much the truth and also with a testimony: the wait begins. Marc, the Straatnieuws sales- after school. more. We didn’t own a car, we didn’t go testimony of poverty. The believer who man, is the most patient of us all, waiting, My father worked in a factory that was on vacations or things like that. But she speaks of poverty or of the homeless, but seated in his chair, for what will come. just a few hundred meters away. He was often needed even the most basic items. who lives a life of luxury: that will not do. Suddenly the Pope’s official photog- a bookkeeper. And my grandparents lived They didn’t have enough, and so my moth- This is the first temptation. rapher appears. “The Pope is arriving,” within 50 meters. We were all just a few er gave her things. She eventually went The second temptation is making agree- he whispers. steps from one another. I also remember back to Italy, and then later she returned ments with governments. Certainly agree- And before we know it, he walks into the names of the people, when as a priest to Argentina. I found her again when I was ments can be made, but they must be clear the room: Pope Francis, the spiritual lead- I went to give the sacraments, the final the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, and she agreements, transparent agreements. For er of 1.2 billion Catholics. He is carrying a comfort for so many, who called for me was already 90. I was able to assist her example, we manage this building, but the large white envelope. “Please, sit down, and I went, because I loved them. These until her death at the age of 93. accounts are all closely controlled, in order friends,” he says with a gentle wave of his are the memories that first come to mind. One day, she gave me a medal of the to avoid corruption. Because the tempta- STREET SENSE 7 NovemberDecember 18 - December 16 - 29, 1, 2015 POPE FRANCIS

tion for corruption is always present in here, at the Domus Sanctae Marthae. And Yes, if we were to make a catalogue market, where there was the butcher, the public life. Both political and religious. I this is good for me, because I feel free of all the Church’s possessions, we could greengrocer, etc. I went with my mother and remember once that I saw, with great pain, here. I eat in the dining hall where all the think: the Church is very rich. But with my grandmother to do the shopping. Once, - when Argentina under the military regime guests eat. And when I am early, I eat with the Concordat with Italy of 1929 on the when I was quite little, about four, someone entered into war with Great Britain over the staff. I meet people, I greet them, and Roman Question, the Italian government asked me: ‘What do you want to do when the Falkland Islands - that people donated this makes the golden cage is a bit less of at the time offered the Church a large Ro- you grow up?’ And I answered: ‘A butcher!’” items to charity, and I saw many people, a cage. But I miss the street. man park. The Pope at the time, Pius XI, including Catholics, who were responsible said: No, I only want half a square kilo- Marc: You were unknown to many until for distributing those things to the needy, Holy Father, [Straatnieuws vendor] Marc meter, in order to guarantee the Church’s 13 March, 2013. Then, overnight, you and who instead took those items home for would like to invite you to come have a independence. This principle is still valid. became famous throughout the world. themselves. The danger for corruption is pizza with us. What do you say? Yes, the Church possesses a great deal How was that experience for you? always present. I would like to, but we wouldn’t be of real estate assets, but we use them to It happened, and I was not expecting Once I put a question to an Argentine able to manage it. Because the moment maintain the Church’s structures and to it. But I have not lost peace. And that Minister, an honest man. One who stepped I leave here, the people would come to fund the many works carried out in needy is a grace from God. I don’t really think down from his position because he could me. When I went out into the city to countries: hospitals, schools. about the fact that I am famous. I say to not agree with certain things that were not change the lenses in my glasses, it was Yesterday, for example, I had €50,000 myself: Now you have an important posi- sufficiently transparent. I asked him: When seven o’clock in the evening. There was sent to the Congo for the construction of tion, but in 10 years nobody will know you send assistance, whether it is in the barely anybody in the streets. They drove three schools in poor villages; education you anymore [he laughs]. You know, there form of meals, clothing, or funds, to the me to the optician, and as I got out of is so important for children. I went to the are two types of fame: the fame of the poor and to the indigent, of what you send, the car, there was a woman who saw me administration, I made the request, and “greats”, those who have done truly how much of it arrives to those who need and cried: “It’s the Pope!” And then I was the money was sent. great things, such as Madame Curie, and it, of the money and materials items that inside, and all the people were outside... the fame of the vain. But this second are sent? He said to me: 35 per cent. Which Let’s talk about Holland. Have you ever type of fame is like a soap bubble. means that 65 per cent is lost. That is cor- Do you miss contact with people? been to our country? ruption: a bit for me, another bit for me. I don’t miss it, because the people Yes, once, when I was the Provincial So, you say ‘I am here now and I have come here. Every Wednesday, I am in Superior of the Jesuits in Argentina. I was to do the best that I can’ and ‘I will con- Do you believe that up to now under Saint Peter’s Square for the General Audi- passing through, during a trip. I went to tinue to work for as long as I can’? your pontificate you have been able to ence, and sometimes I go to one of the Wijchen [in the east of the country], be- Yes. achieve a change in mentality, for ex- local parishes: I am in contact with the cause that’s where novitiate was, and I ample in politics? people. For example, yesterday [26 Octo- was also in Amsterdam for a day and a Holy Father, can you imagine a world I am not sure how to respond. I don’t ber] more than 5,000 gypsies came to the half, where I stayed at a Jesuit house. Of without poverty? know. I do know that some have said that Paul VI Audience Hall. the country’s cultural life I saw nothing, I want a world without poverty. We I was a communist. But that’s a category because there was no time. need to fight for that. But I am a believer, that is a bit antiquated [he laughs]. Perhaps It is evident that you enjoy your ap- and I know that sin is always within us. today we use different words to say that... pointments in St. Peter’s Square during That’s why it might be a good idea if And there is always human greed, the lack the General Audience... Holland’s homeless were to invite you of solidarity, the selfishness which creates Marxist, socialist... It’s true. Yes, it’s true. to visit our country. What do you think, poverty. That is why it is difficult for me They’ve said all those, too. Holy Father? to imagine a world without poverty. Your namesake Saint Francis embraced The doors are not closed to that pos- If you think of the children exploited The homeless have financial problems, radical poverty, and even sold his gospel sibility. for slave labor, or of children exploited but they cultivate their own freedom. book. As Pope, and the Bishop of Rome, for sexual abuse. And another form of ex- The Pope has no material needs, but he do you ever feel under pressure to sell So, when the invitation arrives, you will ploitation: killing children to remove their is considered by some to be a prisoner the treasures of the Church? consider it? organs, organ trafficking. Killing children of the Vatican. Do you ever wish you That is an easy question. They are not I will consider it. And now that Holland for their organs is greed. could trade places with the homeless? the treasures of the Church, but rather has an Argentian queen [he laughs], who That is why I don’t know whether I remember the book by Mark Twain, the treasures of humanity. For example, knows? we will ever have a world without pov- The Prince and the Pauper, when you can if tomorrow I wanted to auction off Mi- erty, because there is always sin, and it eat every day, you have clothes, a bed to chelangelo’s Pietà, I couldn’t, because it Do you perhaps have a special message leads to selfishness. But we must always sleep in, a desk to work on and nothing is is not the property of the Church. It is for the homeless of our country? fight... always. lacking. You also have friends. But Mark located in a Church, but it belongs to all I am not well acquainted with the spe- We have finished. We thank the Pope Twain’s prince lives in a golden cage. humanity. This is true for all the treasures cifics of the homeless in Holland. I would for the interview. He thanks us as well, of the Church. But we have begun to sell like to say that Holland is a developed and says that he enjoyed our chat very Do you feel free here at the Vatican? the gifts and other things that are given to country with a great deal of possibilities. I much. Then he takes the white envelope Two days after having been elected me. And the proceeds from the sales go to would ask Holland’s homeless to continue that has been next to him on the sofa the Pope, I went to take possession of the pa- Monsignor Krajewski, my Almoner [Arch- to fight for the three t’s. whole time, and takes out a rosary for pal apartment in the Apostolic Palace. It is bishop Konrad Krajewski, who is in charge each of us. Photos are taken, and then not a luxurious apartment. But it is wide, of distributing money to the poor]. And Finally, Marc has a few questions as Pope Francis bids us goodbye. As calm and and large... After having seen the apart- then there is the lottery. There were some well. Speaking through an interpreter, he relaxed as when he arrived, he walks out ment, it seemed to me to be a bit like an cars that were sold or given away with a would like to know whether Pope Francis of the door. upside down funnel, so large but with only lottery, and the proceeds were used for dreamt of being the Pope, even when he Ready for his next appointment. one small door. That means being isolat- the poor. There are some things that can was a little boy? The Holy Father answers ed. I thought to myself: I can’t live here, be sold, and these are sold. with a resolute “No.” Courtesy of INSP News Service www.INSP. simply for mental health reasons. It would “But I will tell you a secret,” he contin- ngo/ Straatnieuws. Translated from Italian not be good for me. At the beginning, it You do realize how the wealth of the Church ues. “When I was little, there weren’t many to English by Translators without Borders. seemed a bit strange, but I asked to stay might create this type of expectation? shops that sold things. What we had was a Let’s Try World Peace!! By Michael Craig, Vendor/Artist In our holiday and is doable even during trying times. The Merry Christmas - Show Love to Everyone 365 Days/year! seasons, we are of- wonderfully challenging experience is that ten overcome with it begins with you and me. This gift is not the euphoria of the seasonal, but rather an ongoing daily propo- occasion. Or per- sition. The Christmas tree is us. It’s not you. haps, for some, the It’s all of us. It’s not a materi-al thing. depression brought It costs nothing to love - it really on by the stressors doesn’t. I hope, regardless of your per- of this time of the year. ception of events during this time of year, We run out and buy gifts and receive you find joy and comfort in putting a smile gifts. But, in my mind the greater gift to on someone’s face each day of your life. give is respecting and appreciating the di- Let’s try world peace!! versity of our global society. It costs nothing

From Thanksgiving to Christmas By Robert Warren, Vendor/Artist

Wrangle and tangle with spirits, highs and lows, People in need, they come and they go. For those in service, it’s a day to love lost souls And to pray for those people less fortunate. The tables are set with food piled high With thanksgiving to the Lord who fulfills Man’s every need. Let there be the lighting of the children’s Christmas trees. Here’s some food for thought to remember, please ------Happy Birthday Jesus!------As the new year came in with so many in need. The way to righteousness is that every act is for the Lord, you see nly Jesus created me and made me, to bring me where I am today. Only Jesus can heal me when I am sick. Only Jesus can heal the broken hearted. It is not that you turn your face towards the east or the west, but righteousness is OOnly Jesus can open doors and opportunities when I don’t see any my way. the quality of the one who believes in the Lord, the last day of the angels, the words in Only Jesus can make the impossible to be possible. Only Jesus can make me whole the book, and the prophets. It is the one who gives his wealth in spite of his love for it and complete again. Where would I be without Jesus? Jesus is the butter to my to, his kin folk, to the orphans, and the poor, the homeless and to the wayfarer and to bread and the sugar to my tea. Jesus is my all in all. I look to him and only him those who ask, and help set a refugee free. because I know he will hear my cry and answer my problems. Only Jesus is for These are the sincere, the pious, may peace be to their fellow man that be thankful me and he is only for you too! Jesus is the only one that helps me in my times in and believe in giv-ing out of what the Lord provides to thee. need. He knows when I need him because he is God and he knows everything. He Not just when the bells of the season ring, the ways of the Lord commercialized is Jesus, the only Jesus there is. He orders my steps and walks with me no mat- for a few dollars, please. Open your eyes and see, people are people 365 days a year, ter what the situation is, in my life and in yours. No matter what happens to you would you believe? or me, he is always with us. Never forget that. God Bless you all and thank you! If you give thanks, give every day you breathe, the angels in heaven will sing of thee. The best part of all, the Lord will remember me, praying for the better day and happy -By Evelyn Nnam, Vendor/Artist holidays for all in need. STREET SENSE 9 December 16 - 29, 2015 HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

You Are Appreciated By Reginald Black, “The Street Reportin’ Artist” Vendor/Artist Merry Christmas - Show Love to Everyone 365 Days/year! I have been think- back and motivation. I am doing my best ing of writing some- to make the greatest turno-ver of these thing like this for kind words and investments. I am thank- a while, not just ful to all of you and hope that you will for the holidays. I con-tinue to support me as I endeavor to stayed away from it continue my education and open my own because I feel that business based here in Washington, D.C. pieces like this are, You have been the best parts of my life Visit StreetSense.org/xmas2015 in a way, similar to what I already do on and I am humbled everyday by the many the corners when I’m selling the paper. people that stop just to have a quick chat. to read holiday profiles of each I do realize that I am being invested in by If it was not for you, I would not have all of you who purchase the paper from me gotten this far. I may have come a long vendor pictured here. Thank personally. I am making great strides in the way, which includes a two-month stint as community. To date, I have starred in inter- a District of Columbia city employee, but I you for reading Street Sense and views, designed flyers and newspaper pages, have a long way to go too. I am asking for spoken in front of crowds, directed a film your support during the journey. supporting our vendors. and even published drawings -- something I It has been a treasure to be your Street never thought that I would be able to do. I Sense vendor and I am hoping that as I used to think drawing would be hard, but it start to roll out creative products for my seems I have a few skills yet to uncover. business that you will become patrons Happy Holidays! I am relaying this to you all because I of those items too. I will see you on the want you to know how much I appreciate streets. And like I always say: safe jour- every invest-ment. Every voice of feed- neys to you all. 12 Days of a Homeless Christmas By Doris Robinson, Vendor/Artist ------Happy Birthday Jesus!------On the first day of homeless Christmas, I lost my Social Security card. On the second day of homeless Christmas, I lost two pairs of glasses. 000 years ago, God sent a present to the world to help the people: he sent On the third day of homeless Christmas, I lost three identity cards. Jesus. Jesus came so the people could be saved! He gave his life for people. On the fourth day of homeless Christmas, I lost four pairs of socks. 2This is why we know we should be thankful. There is no greater love. On the fifth day of homeless Christmas, I lost three earrings and two necklaces. On the sixth day of homeless Christmas, I lost three soaps and three deodorants. So, by his example, we should try to keep peace and care about each other. Love On the seventh day of homeless Christmas, I lost seven of my teeth. each other. Not just sometimes, but all the time. Not just during Christmas, but On the eighth day of homeless Christmas, I lost eight of my job papers. all year. On the ninth day of homeless Christmas, I lost nine of my nails. On the tenth day of Christmas, I lost ten locks of my hair. The big word during the holiday should not be sale, but love. On the eleventh day of Christmas, I lost six bras and five undergarments. On the twelfth day of Christmas, I lost a dozen $100 bills. I am grateful and happy to say I love Jesus. Happy Birthday Jesus!

-By Jackie Turner, Vendor/Artist OPINION Christmastime Compassion Remembering Christmas Isn't Good Enough By Robert Warren I've never been a big fan of Christmas. I remember, when I was 8 or 9 years old, going By Michael F. Curtin, Jr. with my brother and sisters to my grandmother's house for Christmas dinner and having no gifts under the tree. Something in me changed that day. I guess I found out there Like dozens of other nonprofit organiza- We have an incredible opportunity to is no such thing as Santa Claus. My grandmother, a beautiful soul, was too poor to buy tions working to end homelessness in the make our workforce development system gifts. But she was someone who loved the Lord. I can still see the look of hurt on her District of Columbia, DC Central Kitchen’s work for individuals overcoming home- face because of not having gifts for us. But even though she didn't have money to do programs are in action all year long. But lessness. There have been encouraging what she wanted, I remember thinking how much I loved her for all the love she showed this time of year – the flurry of activity changes at the federal level through the my siblings and me. Being home with her was the only gift I needed. between Thanksgiving and New Year’s – is Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. So over the years, I have stressed and obsessed with the rest of us about how I was always when public interest in homeless- The act makes it easier to serve homeless going to make enough money to buy my loved ones gifts. I have seen more and more ness and hunger peaks. Just as a single individuals, including homeless youth, and how Christmas has come to show the difference between the haves and the have-nots holiday meal will not liberate a person encourages states to invest in the type of – just an exercise of supporting corporate greed. Now, being old enough to see how from hunger, a seasonal spike in shame, innovative solutions that can help these this happens, I also see how few people think about the poor and people in need after outrage or confusion at the ongoing ex- residents access the training, social servic- Thanksgiving and Christmas. And I have learned that the work of Christ Jesus is never istence of homelessness in our wealthy es and job placement assistance they need done. So I am just happy to see Christmas come and go so the real followers of Christ nation’s capital is not enough. For an in- to enter and stay in the workforce. To seize Jesus can get back to the work at hand. dividual to replace homelessness with the this opportunity, the District must name a conditions of self-sufficiency takes coor- permanent director of the Workforce In- Robert Warren is a writer and Street Sense vendor. dination, planning and effort from many vestment Council as soon as possible and parties over time. However, this year, like immediately begin the process of identi- so many years past, our community is still fying solutions to meet the employment coming up short on these counts – which needs of homeless residents. It’s crucial means that when the calendar turns to that any proposed solutions are developed 2016, we’re certain to have failed, once with the input of the nonprofit providers, again, to make homelessness a thing of community advocates and for-profit busi- the past. If we don’t want to say these nesses that will be integral to their suc- same things again next year, we should cessful implementation. use these six weeks of public attention But we must also be forward-thinking and energy to advance the dialogue on a about adding new voices to these conversa- series of key issues: tions. Thus, finally, the District of Colum- Hunger, homelessness and unemploy- bia should become the nation’s capital ment are all linked, but the groups ad- for social enterprises that provide sus- dressing them aren’t. Elements of the tainable, supportive employment for in- Housing First model have demonstrated dividuals with histories of homelessness. some encouraging results, but housing This promising new sector of the economy, IMAGES COURTESY OF TORANGE.US alone (even if we had enough of it) is not a populated by private entities that offer complete solution. Philanthropists and non- dignified, meaningful jobs while generat- profits are talking more about food and nu- ing revenue and attracting business from I Didn't Leave The Party. The Party Left Me! trition than ever before, but those at risk conscientious consumers (of which D.C. has By Jeffery McNeil of homelessness still face information gaps many) is primed for growth. In fact, Street about how to access the quality nutrition Sense and DC Central Kitchen are well-es- Our country is in a crisis morally, spiri- born here, I refuse to speak another lan- they need. And without quick transitions tablished models of this approach. But the tually and economically. Before I moved to guage except the language of my country. into living-wage employment, residents District and the philanthropic community D.C., I thought of myself as open-minded Trump isn't racist, he is right. Illegal im- who have received expedited housing assis- could be doing much more to attract, de- and progressive. I supported women's migration makes all immigrants look bad. tance may lose it. Coordination across non- velop and grow these types of innovative rights and was sympathetic to gays. Ten It’s not about racism; it’s about survival. profits, funders and government agencies firms. If many purely for-profit businesses years ago, I would never have considered Whole towns and cities are being decimat- with different focus areas remains sporadic are not yet ready to make major invest- Donald Trump, but the Democrats have ed by free trade and globali-zation. What at best, even though research and practice ments of time and money into hiring resi- moved too far left. will it take for liberals to realize people continue to show how homelessness is a dents who are homeless, we support the What’s being espoused as liberalism no longer see the government as the solu- complex challenge requiring comprehen- idea of adding new employers to the mix isn't liberalism but a Leviathan from the tion but the problem? People want jobs sive, integrated solutions. who can expand the number and quality of deep. Once upon a time, people could talk not health care, minimum wage laws and We must end the outdated and failed opportunities available. about their disagreements civilly. Liberals paid vacations that benefit unions instead approach of warehousing our residents Instead of using the next few weeks to don't stop racism. They make you cheer of people who need relief. who are homeless. The steps taken to simply plead for donations, those of us for people such as Donald Trump and Ted The reason why Donald Trump is surg- close the dilapidated family shelter at D.C. working to end homelessness in D.C. must Cruz, while they go on witch hunts to find ing is because he doesn't have experts and General emergency shelter have been en- pull together and provoke productive dia- racism in every crevice. You will find out handlers. He’s a novice, he’s a quick study couraging, but Mayor Muriel Bowser and logue – so that someday, we won’t need they are the most hate-filled, hypocritical and learns as he goes. He doesn't go by Department of Human Services Director to ask for donations anymore. people on earth. the polls but by the gut. Please, Donald, Laura Zeilinger are quite right to point out Once upon a time I loved being a Dem- don’t be like these country club Repub- that it will not be a sustained step if all Michael F. Curtin Jr. is the Chief Ex- ocrat, but they went cuckoo for Cocoa licans and these bourgeoisie Democrats. eight wards do not share the responsibility ecutive Officer of DC Central Kitchen, Puffs. I was born in this country, I fought Keep it raw and real, be yourself, and you of providing smaller, safer, more dignified a nationally acclaimed nonprofit social and risked my life for this country, only will get my vote. living arrangements. Moreover, D.C. Gen- enterprise that trains at-risk adults for to come home and deal with bu-reaucrats eral is not the only old, overcrowded shel- culinary careers while using wasted food who are unelected officials and account- Jeffery Mcneil is a frequent writer ter in the District, and similar energy must and local farm products to bring healthy able to no one. They tell me I need to and columnist for Street Sense. be spent on addressing those facilities and food to individuals and families in need. learn Spanish to get better employment. their residents immediately. We are building a Tower of Babel. I was STREET SENSE 11# Have an opinion about how homelessness is being handled in our community? Street Sense maintains an open submission policy and December 16 - 29, 2015 prides itself as a newspaper that elevates community voices and fosters healthy debate. Send your thoughts to [email protected]. OP-ED Where Is Our Progressive Mayor? By Brian Carome

Recent events suggest Washington, our interviews with those affected. Even D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser is of two minds if true, holding a lease in one hand, while when it comes to addressing homeless- banishing the club of an eviction notice in ness. Upon taking office nearly a year ago, the other, is no way to build trust. she brought a refreshingly pro-gressive Let’s be honest about what is behind approach to the District's longstanding, these neighborhood “cleanups.” They are seemingly intractable homelessness prob- knee-jerk reac-tions to demands made by lem. She embraced policies proven effec- wealthy residents, business owners and tive elsewhere, tapped respected leaders developers in these neigh-borhoods. “We in the field for key administration posts don’t care how, just get these unsightly and backed her ideas with more funding people out of here!” Twenty-three years than her recent predecessors. ago, on nearly the very same spot this The mayor has been an outspoken pro- now-evicted community found refuge, for- ponent of the Housing First model. Proven mer D.C. Mayor Vince Gray, while direc- to be a cost effective way of solving chron- tor of the Department of Human Services, ic homelessness, Housing First provides conducted a similar “cleanup” operation people experiencing homelessness with a few days before Thanksgiving when he housing as quickly as possible, and then forcibly shut down a shelter in an-swer to provides services as needed. It re-places a assistance budget for fiscal year 2016 as reason. For some, it means being able to residents demands to “get these unsightly failed approach that made engagement in the very best and most promising alloca- stay with a supportive partner. (City shel- people out of here.” services, and extended periods of stability, tion of funding she had seen in 30 years. ters for single adults do not allow men and The forcible eviction of the Foggy Bot- prerequisites for housing. The policy works All of this leads to our bewilderment wom-en to be sheltered together.) Others tom encampment, and plans to do the and saves taxpayer money. about her decision to forcefully evict a find the noise, violence and overcrowding same elsewhere in the city, echo an old, Bowser’s choice of Laura Zeilinger as community of per-sons from their en- of shelters un-bearable. Others appreci- outdated and failed style of leadership. director of the Department of Human campment in the District's Foggy Bottom ate the sense of community and autonomy They bring us no closer to the day we be- Services and Polly Donaldson as direc- neighborhood near the Watergate Build- that they are able to build at these en- lieve Mayor Bowser yearns for as much as tor of the Department of Housing and ing. By order of the mayor, city workers campments. Still others found shelters full we here at Street Sense do – a day when Community Development suggested that swept in, confiscated tents and personal when they sought refuge there. All found this city is beyond its decades of wide- crafting long-term policies to address and effects and “cleaned up” the encampment the cost of housing in our city beyond spread chronic homelessness. We urge end homelessness was a top priority. Both last month, all in accordance with city law their reach. the mayor to embrace the progressive bring a track record of accountability, ap- that forbids such “temporary places of Whatever the reason, criminalizing the inclinations that characterized the first plication of best practices, innovation and abode.” The mayor has pledged to do the decision is shortsighted. At the implemen- months of her administration. And we public-private collab-oration to the task. same anywhere else in the city people are tation level, when it targets persons who stand ready to support implementation of And the mayor has shown a willingness to living in similar encampments. are chronically homeless, Housing First policies born from that brand of progres- back her rhetoric with the funding needed Let us be clear, we at Street Sense begins with engagement and trust-build- sive leadership. to implement good ideas. One longtime think it is outrageous that in a city of ing. The mayor will tell you that housing critic of the District's approach to home- such wealth, some of our neighbors live was offered to all of the encampment’s Brian Carome is the executive direc- lessness described the mayor's homeless outside. But we know they are there for a residents – a claim not substantiated by tor of Street Sense.

Criminality of Being Homeless Go Ahead And Criminalize Homelessness By Gwynette Smith By Ken Martin

All people should have civil rights in if they need help. Some stores do have Yes, homelessness should be criminalized. Every politician, developer, landlord, this country. We open our borders to im- specific policies about the length of time church leader and any other "citizen" that opposes or otherwise fails to support sus- migrants, but people often show they care a person can remain on their premises. A tainable housing; the fight to end unjust incarceration of the disadvantaged; and nothing about the homeless. There is even reasonable amount of time, like 15 min- the restoration of American family life should be sentenced to a term of time in the an effort to make being home-less tanta- utes, might be enough time for the type streets and subsequent parole in a Community for Creative Non-Violence, or CCNV, mount to being a criminal. of goods they sell, such as food. -like shelter. A fair sentence, as will be mine when editors note the length of that I have been spat at by passersby. What Panhandling should be legal as long as run-on sentence. [Editor’s note: We sentence Ken to a punishment of 50 more op-eds.] are my rights? I have been banned from people don’t threaten others. The police going into a movie theater, presumably once charged me for panhandling because Ken Martin is a Vendor/Artist for Street Sense. He has a background in community because I had bags with me. What are they said I stepped in front of people or organizing as well as real estate. Ken operates a pop-up hat shop in the District. my rights? should have been on one side of the side- Learn more at www.brims4you.com. Some states, like Connecticut, have walk or the other. The people could walk passed laws giving homeless people a around me. But the police said it didn’t special "Homeless Person's Bill of Rights." matter, and I had to pay a fine. A person should have the right to sit on We are human beings and we all have a pack bench, go into a public facility, feelings. Anyone can join the ranks of the panhandle, etc., without fear of being homeless through bad circumstances that arrested. Other states have enacted laws befall them. We should think of others similar to Connecticut's and more states and in doing so, we may also be thinking need to follow. of ourselves. Entering a store or a business should not confer on the security guards the Gwynette Smith is a writer and a ven- right to follow any person or to inquire dor for Street Sense. IMAGE COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS The Street Sense Writers’ Group is led by writing professionals and meets every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. The group’s goal is to develop ideas and collaborate on the next great issue of Street Sense.

To Conquer PERCEPTION IS REALITY: By Rachel Higdon, Vendor/Artist Spectrum of Change By Robert Williams, USMC Vendor/Artist I’ve been stranded in darkness And I could not find my way. Extended time spent in I was stuck in place any given environment And it was happening every day. can or will change an There was no one to help me, individual. I had to learn on my own. However, I had to work through my hardships One does have To get to my throne. Some control over the change, I crawled on my knees Be it Every time that I fell. Positive or I crawled through the fire Negative To get out of hell. And the extent While standing at the roadblock, Thereof. I didn’t give up. Positivity and I explored other options Negativity, When things got tough. At opposite ends PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR/EMMANUEL I made it through the jungle Of the spectrum With thorns on my feet. Like What Street Sense Means to Me I patched up my pain Light and dark. By Richard Embden, Vendor/Artist And made some cleats. After one ends, I walked and I walked The other starts. Street Sense gets me going. I have a reason to get out of the house. It is no small Until I found the light. Night and day, satisfaction I get from being able to buy what I want to eat rather than being subject to I was blinded with dirt At some points from each other, whatever was donated to Miriam’s Kitchen. But I did not lose sight. Not too often far away. Street Sense means I always can decide to put forth a genuine effort and receive a genuine reward. I can make some things happen, instead of asking, “What happened?” When I am selling Street Sense, I encourage myself, thinking that if “I put in the effort,” Street Sense works.

A Beautiful Life Woke-Up Dead By Charles Davis, Vendor/Artist By Angie Whitehurst, Vendor/Artist

When I go to Woke up dead. sleep at night, Sorted, shredded, recycled, dumped, sometimes my body picked up, driven unloaded is so tired; espe- Just plain gone. cially, after I was Trashed and thrown away. recently kicked How could that happen to the thou- My Daughters Birthday in the face and so sands of me, here, there, and every- By Elizabeth Bryant, Vendor/Artist badly beaten I had where, globally, especially cap town, D.C? to have major surgery. But God gave me Woke up dead. I need all people that read my writing to understand that I’m life, and it has been good to me no matter Lost and found, like overdue rotted gar- in a lot of pain. what I have been going through. God has bage to be picked up on the street, in the My daughter’s birthday was November 25, 2015, which marked always been there for me, which is why I park, squatters’ house, shelter inside or the first time I haven’t talked to her for a whole year. It was pain- count my blessings every day. outside in the bed, in the dumpster, in the ful not to. But, she had told me to stay away and I was worried Since my arthritis has spread through daylight, in the dark. about adding to her own pain. my hip to my spine, I have to have back Woke up dead, from exposure and I want her to hear that I love her. I’ve still got her birthday surgery soon. That brings another problem death. present from last year, for her and my grandson. I hope that I can I have to go through, because I will have Cold and ill from no house--a home or give it to them one day. I hope I learn how to act. to find a place to heal. I also pray to God I a place to heal. find a place to live very soon. Fortunate- The cost too high for my town to meet. ly, I am going to see about an apartment Now, I am not here for you to touch shortly, and I hope and pray things will and see. work with me and my case manager. There is hope! Street Sense has been helping me a I hear our mayor is going to fix-it..... lot along the way, and I thank it for that. So there will be no more throwaways on Before I end this article, I hope and pray the street of human life, my oldest brother Jim will successfully Awakened-up-dead, like me! fight the illness going through his liver. Luckily, I know God is with him and will bless him always. What a beautiful life God has given me, and I thank God for that. May God bless us all. Amen and peace! PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BEALE/FLICKR STREET SENSE 13 December 16 - 29, 2015 VENDOR WRITING REVIEW: MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

By William Mack Volunteer

So many artists got their start with Motown. Mar- captivated from beginning to end. Diana Ross’ (Al- vin Gaye, The Miracles, Martha Reeves and The Van- lison Semmes) voice was magnificent. Smokey Rob- dellas, The Four Tops, Gladys Knight and the Pips, inson (Jesse Nager) was Vice President of Motown The Temptations, Mary Wells, Stevie Wonder, The records. The singing and dancing had me singing Jackson 5 are just a few of the artists and groups and dancing in my seat as I reminisced with each that came out of Motown (Hitsville) records. The song sung. The cast was very talented. The music Motown label was a reflection of hard work and was heart felt and almost as good as the original dedication of individuals overcoming obstacles to singers and musicians. The stage was set perfectly,

Jarran Muse as Marvin Gaye | PHOTO COURTESY OF JOAN MARCUS achieve success. I had the privilege of viewing Mo- the lighting was just right, and the sound system town the Musical on Wednesday, December 9, 2015, was at its best. at the National Theater, a very comfortable theater I definitely recommend this musical for all to see. with plush seats and excellent atmosphere. Let me I’d really love to see it again! I would like to thank P-A-I-N start by saying this play was spectacular. the staff of the National Theater Corporation for all The show opens in 1983 at the time of the “Mo- the good work they’ve done and continue to do in By Reginald Black, town 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever” TV special. This helping to bring these performances to the public. Vendor/Artist , “Da Street Reportin’ Artist” is the music that a lot of us came to love. The “Motown The Musical”’s Washington area pre- music of this era transcended color barriers. Berry miere at National Theatre December 1, 2015 – P-A-I-N where does it from Gordy (played by Josh Tower) kept the audience January 3, 2016 www.TheNationalDC.com Grief? Is there a true relief? Can one escape the prison an unbothered release? P-A-I-N AFTER KATRINA: A Ten Year Rollercoster, Part 10 What is the destiny of man? By Gerald Anderson, Vendor/Artist All I see is trouble through a window p-a-n-e All around us PREVIOUSLY: I was movin’ I say, “Cool.” How can we let go? around with my carwash So after I walk off, him and the other guy start Who sees the P-A-I-N bucket, but really I was look- talking. I was curious in my mind. With me bein’ when tears flow? ing to see did they have crack high already, I wondered if they were talkin’ about in that area so I could get me. And I wonder if the dope was real. Are their salty tears meant to water flowers, high. I started talkin’ to one I met him through the grapevine so I couldn’t of earth’s remaining years? guy who at first is thinkin’ I’m be too sure. P-A-I-N an informer. After a while, I I purposely didn’t ask the dealer his name. I’m a How much does it take for it to all end? start to trust him and tell street dude, so when people ask my name, I think him I’m tryin to get a good connect. “Dope, heroin, they an informer. P-A-I-N is all I see, or crack cocaine; it doesn’t matter,” I told him. He The dealer told the dude who introduced us, Wish I could go back to mommy say, “You got the man right here. I’m gonna call my that he respect me because I didn’t ask his name Wishing she was still here to guide man. He be here in 10 or 15 minutes...” or nothin’. How much longer will they be dancing around in false pride? Now that I’m movin’ around and startin’ to meet After movin’ around in the projects, I sit on the people, they invitin’ me to their house and to cook- porch and watch him sellin’ his bags. P-A-I-N, feeling so strong, outs. I got it goin’ on now. I’m minglin’. He say, “Let me do the morning and I’m gonna let as Kaio-ken times ten So this addict I met told me about some dealer you do the evening. These jackrabbits, they crazy, Surely that can’t be all there is to life he know that can front me some work, giving me especially in the morning, so I’ll deal with them.” P-A-I-N is what guides those who fight drugs to sell. I went back and told my homeboys and homegirls What form should it take? When I say work, I mean sellin’ drugs, not work that I got a lick. They say what you talkin’ about? How long must hurting people wait? like construction or nothin’ like that. I say I got a connect. I’m in the game with these I ask when will we all be truly free? I asked him, “What they look to get back dudes now. moneywise.” One of my homegirls say, “I hope you don’t mess How can I remove this pain from me? He say, “60 for the man and 40 for you.” his money up. I don’t want you to get in trouble Surely it’s a hard road I say, “Damn man, in New Orleans they go 70-30. with these guys out here. They might kill you. Or the one I have been on seems flooded out, It’s better up here than down there.” come here and kill us!” covered with snow When he say he can call him right now and the I tell her, “I got this. I’m true to the game, not new Longing for the day we can all lay down our weapons dude will come, I told him, “Man, I don’t want no to the game. Only thing I needed was to find a way to slow money. I want fast money,” meaning that I breathe, like get a connect. Now, I know what to do. P-A-I-N, what does it take to win want to sell heroin, not crack cocaine. I use crack I got a coke connect and a heroin connect.” cocaine—that’s my high, so it would be hard to sell. So every day I go out and hustle, sell my drugs. I P-A-I-N, we have already lost to many of them I’m a user, so I’d wanna use it. get my nickname—they call me Orleans. After him callin’ the man and I meet him, he say, (to be continued) P-A-I-N, I can’t accept losing any more “What’s the most you think you can sell?” I say, “I’m not new to this game, but I’m new My book, “Still Standing: How an Ex-Con Found P-A-I-N, where is the peace i yearn for? to how they maneuver up here. I’ve been here for Salvation in the Floodwaters of Katrina,” is a minute.” available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle P-A-I-N, is all I see He say, “How about 20 bags, can you handle that?” form. I hope you will tell your friends about it. I say, “How much you lookin’ back for that?” It also makes a great gift! Thank you! P-A-I-N, I guess I gotta use both of them, fight with sword and pen. He say, “I want $120 back.” Al Nist by the Rose DEDICATED TO EDWARD SNOWDEN

All night by the roos rose, the roos and I lay. Autographed photo of Pittsburgh Steelers’ Franco Harris after his winning touchdown Me ay niht cannot catch known as “The Immaculate Reception.” Given to Anthony by a friend. PHOTO BY ANTHONY CRAWFORD this rose dis-pel synce I bore the flowr My ‘Immaculate Reception’ o way. By Anthony Crawford Vendor/Artist

I received a birthday gift from one of my loyal readers to celebrate my two year anni- versary of having secured housing. I've known him for about a year and a half. He's a good guy. He's a lawyer and his son works for D.C. Central Kitchen. He had seen my Pittsburgh Steelers gear and knew I was a big fan of the team. The birthday gift he gave me was an autographed photo of Franco Harris' touchdown winning catch from Terry Bradshaw back in December of 1972. NFL films say this is the greatest play in the history of pro-football. Thanks to my friends, this has been a marvelous year for me. Everyone has been really A 14th Centruy English folk song, rendered by Franklin Sterling. Vendor/Artist supportive. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all my fans and readers!

MOVING UP: Navigating the Healthcare Sign-up Process By Arthur Johnson, Volunteer

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been several questions about your present in- of the exemptions. There are several for the Unity Health Care Minnesota Ave Clinic very effective in reducing the number of surance coverage and your income to de- 2015 that you should know about: you do (3924 Minnesota Ave NE); the Unity Health uninsured residents in the United States. termine if you are eligible for subsidies to not have to pay the fine if you were home- Care Anacostia Health Center (1500 Galen There are many benefits, but one of the help pay for your coverage. The subsidies less, were evicted or faced foreclosure, St SE); Whitman-Walker Health (Elizabeth most significant responsibilities that goes make the insurance extremely affordable. are a domestic abuse victim, had filed for Taylor Medical Center 1701 14th St NW); along with receiving them is that you must Another advantage of the Affordable bankruptcy within six months, received a Community of Hope Marie Reed Health purchase insurance or face a significant Care Act is that you may have a better shut off notice for your utilities, suffered Center (2250 Champlain St NW); Commu- penalty from the Internal Revenue Ser- chance of getting Medicaid. In states that a fire or flood, someone in your immediate nity of Hope Conway Health and Resource vice. The 2016 penalty will increase this chose to expand Medicaid (D.C. and Mary- family died, or if you could get insurance Center (4 Atlantic St SW); Community of year to $695 per adult and $347.50 for land accepted the Medicaid expansion, through your employer or a marketplace Hope Family Health and Birth Center (801 each child, or 2.5% of income. Virginia did not) the eligibility amount and the cost would exceed 8.05% of your 17th St NE); Mary’s Center (3912 Georgia Children are actually one of the easiest was increased to as much as 132 percent household income, which would make it Ave NW); and the DC One Touch Enroll- groups to cover since the Government has of the Federal poverty level. unaffordable under the ACA. ment Center with identity verification and in place a program at the Federal level One important thing to realize is that If you are a young adult you have two bilingual help (Carlos Rosario International called CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance in order to avoid paying a penalty when options: stay on your parent’s policy until Charter School at 1100 Harvard St NW). Program). It is a form of Medicaid de- you file your taxes, you must have been the age of 26 or purchase a catastrophic Contact the locations for hours. Most signed to make sure all children are cov- insured under a qualified insurance plan. policy. That is similar to a high deductible are open several days a week. Make sure ered. And it is very easy to apply. All you For example, there are some things that policy that has you covering the majority to apply today. The deadline for open en- do is call 1-877-543-7669. Answer some DC Healthy Alliance does not cover and of the expenses until you meet the (very rollment is January 30. questions and then they mail you a form it is possible you may wind up paying a high) deductible. to sign and send back with supporting doc- penalty since the plan does not meet the To get started, visit DCHealthLink.com Arthur Johnson is a volunteer writer uments. Within 45 days, your children are standards set forth in The Affordable Care or call 855-532-5465. You’ll need a copy of focusing on finance and economic issues. covered to visit doctors and access any Act. If you are presently covered under your tax return or a pay stub that will show He has two Bachelor’s Degrees in Sport needed medical services. DC Healthy Alliance, it is highly advisable your income, and you will need to pro- Management and Economics. Johnson has For adults needing insurance, there are that you apply through DC Health Link to vide your social security number and you substantial experience working with the several options. The main website for the make sure that the coverage you obtain may need to provide proof of citizenship homeless as a Volunteer Financial mentor enrollment process is will comply with the ACA. (driver’s license, birth certificate, etc.) at The Salvation Army shelter in Minne- DCHealthLink.com. It is a comprehen- Another thing to know is that if you There are several enrollment centers apolis. If you have questions about a spe- sive site that can guide you through the did not have insurance for at least three staffed with assistants and brokers to help cific article or suggestions for topics you process of signing up for insurance. Af- consecutive months, you may be subject you navigate the process too: Martin Lu- would like to know more about, please ter creating an account, you will answer to the tax penalty unless you meet one ther King Jr. Public Library (901 G St NW); email him [email protected] STREET SENSE 15 December 16 - 29, 2015 COMMUNITY SERVICES

Housing/Shelter Food Clothing Showers

Outreach Medical/Healthcare Transportation Laundry

Education Employment Assistance Legal Assistance

Academy of Hope Public Charter School: Community of Hope: 232-7356 Jobs Have Priority: 544-9128 Samaritan Ministry: 269-6623 | 601 Edgewood St, NE communityofhopedc.org 425 Snd St, NW 1516 Hamilton Street NW | 722-2280 aohdc.org jobshavepriority.org 1345 U Street SE | 889-7702 samaritanministry.org

Covenant House Washington: John Young Center: 639-8569 Bread for the City: 610-9600 119 D Street, NW 265-2400 (NW) | 561-8587 (SE) 2001 Mississippi Avenue, SE Sasha Bruce Youthwork: 675-9340 1525 7th St, NW | 1640 Good Hope Rd, SE covenanthousedc.org 741 8th St, SE breadforthecity.org sashabruce.org Martha’s Table: 328-6608 2114 14th St, NW D.C. Coalition for the Homeless: marthastable.org Calvary Women’s Services: 678-2341 347-8870 So Others Might Eat (SOME) 1217 Good Hope Road, SE 1234 Massachusetts Ave, NW 797-8806 calvaryservices.org dccfh.org Miriam’s Kitchen: 71 O St, NW 452-8926 some.org 2401 Virginia Ave, NW miriamskitchen.org Catholic Charities: 772-4300 Father McKenna Center: 842-1112 catholiccharitiesdc.org/gethelp 19 Eye St, NW St. Luke’s Mission Center: 333-4949 fathermckennacenter.org 3655 Calvert St. NW My Sister’s Place: stlukesmissioncenter.org 529-5991 (24-hour hotline) Charlie’s Place: 232-3066 mysistersplacedc.org 1830 Connecticut Ave, NW Food and Friends: 269-2277 charliesplacedc.org 219 Riggs Rd, NE foodandfriends.org Thrive DC: 737-9311 (home delivery for those suffering from N Street Village: 939-2060 1525 Newton St, NW HIV, cancer, etc) 1333 N Street, NW thrivedc.org Christ House: 328-1100 nstreetvillage.org 1717 Columbia Rd, NW christhouse.org Foundry Methodist Church: 332-4010 Unity Health Care: 745-4300 1500 16th St, NW New York Ave Shelter: 832-2359 3020 14th St, NW foundryumc.org/ministry-opportunities 1355-57 New York Ave, NE unityhealthcare.org Church of the Pilgrims: 387-6612 ID (FRIDAY 9-12 ONLY) 2201 P St, NW churchofthepilgrims.org/outreach food (1 - 1:30 on Sundays only) The Welcome Table: 347-2635 Georgetown Ministry Center: Open Door Shelter: 639-8093 1317 G St, NW 338-8301 425 2nd St, NW epiphanydc.org/thewelcometable 1041 Wisconsin Ave, NW newhopeministriesdc.org/id3.html georgetownministrycenter.org Friendship Place: 364-1419 4713 Wisconsin Ave, NW Whitman-Walker Health friendshipplace.org Samaritan Inns: 667-8831 1701 14th St, NW | 745-7000 2523 14th St, NW 2301 MLK Jr. Ave, SE | 797-3567 Gospel Rescue Ministries: 842-1731 samaritaninns.org whitman-walker.org 810 5th St, NW Community Family Life Services: grm.org 347-0511 | 305 E St, NW cflsdc.org

CELEBRATING SUCCESS! My Selling Techniques

By Patty Smith Vendor/Artist

After five years of selling Street Sense papers all around DC, I started selling in the Shaw area. The gift of gab I was known to have, always being courteous to the people I ran into on a daily basis. I also learned that complimenting my customers has been a good selling point. Over the many years I have sold Street Sense, I have found these points to work out perfectly. Consider United Way NCA Contributing Designation Code # 28233 United Way of the to Street Sense! National Capital Area # 8871

VENDOR MEMORIAL: ROBERTA BEAR By Marcus Green, Vendor/Artist

Dear Bobby Bear,

Farewell.

I miss you so much. God has called you home. I can’t go back, only forward to make you and God proud.

Taking you and God for granted came back to haunt me. But, there is a blessing in all of this: Bobby’s work on Earth is done, and I must take over.

Please lift me and her family in prayer. I do know prayer changes things. Thanks for your support.

God Bless, Marcus

The Street Sense family grieves for the loss of Roberta “Bobby” Bear. She was a strong woman, prolific writer and gentle soul. Bobby passed away in her sleep, at the age of 58, on Tuesday, November 24. Family services were held on December 6.

Street Sense will hold a memorial at the Church of the Epiphany in early January 2016. All are welcome. She will also be honored during this year’s Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, observed on December 17 and 18 in the District. Donations may be made in her honor to House of Ruth (HouseOfRuth.org). Reflections and tributes may be sent to [email protected].

Photos of Roberta on display at her family services. COURTESY OF MARCUS GREEN Roberta “Bobby” Bear. PHOTO BY JANE CAVE. Marcus Green, Roberta’s husband, now wears both of their wedding bands • • December 16 - 29, 2015 Volume 13 Issue 3 side-by-side. PHOTO BY ERIC FALQUERO

Street Sense Nonprofit Org 1317 G Street, NW US Postage Paid Washington, DC 20005 Washington, DC Mail To: Permit #568

Remember, buy only from badged vendors and do not give to those panhandling with one paper.

Interested in a subscription? Go to page 15 for more information.