Comments about ‘In our opinion: Fighting homelessness does not mean an end to worth while programs’

Conclusion? Some amount of govt. assistance needs to be maintained. And I agree.

The government represents us all and has a critical role. No private entity or church has the resources, including the LDS and Catholic churches. The make important contributions, but it is not enough. Dealing with the human condition is the ultimate investment in our society and in ourselves as human beings.

I hope that part of the programs offered extend nightly accommodation and nutrition for able bodied people who receive that help as a result of work performed. I don't doubt that the government of Utah and / or Salt Lake City can find something for those on difficult times to do.

Individuals and institutions (churches, charitable organizations, etc.) should absolutely play a vital role in aiding the homeless, disabled, poor, and other at-risk indigent populations among us; but ultimately, it is the duty of government to ensure that help is available to all who are least able to help themselves. It's part of our social contract -- the price we pay to live in a civil society.

If the needy turn first to private individuals and institutions for help, great. If private individuals and institutions are proactive and provide for the needy before government is able to, fantastic. But to the extent that there are needy who, for whatever reason, do not receive help from private sources, it is essential that the government be willing and able to step in and help.

Of course charities and churches should play a vital role. And they do.

As does the government.

These programs for the homeless, disabled, poor, and hungry aren't killing America.

What's killing America are unsustainable tax levels, wars, Medicare Part D, a slumping economy, banks "too big to fail", foreign aid to everyone and their dog, spending twice as much as the rest of the world in defense, a broken health care system, deregulation on wall street and commodities markets, and oil subsidies to companies who are already making record profits.