I was just in the elevator talking to my neighbor. We were both saying how glad we both are to have a nice warm place to come home to especially on this exceptionally cold day — acknowledging that many in our neighborhood aren’t as fortunate. It is for those people that I am writing this diary.
I have written at length about my own housing situation before here, here, and here. Also, I’ve organized in my community with Portland Gray Panthers and the Welcome Home Coalition to house houseless people here in Portland.
Today, I’m asking you to help. Here are some simple things you can do. It only takes a minute to show your support.
We are calling for a moratorium on annual federally proposed rent increases and that Congress fully fund HUD to end the housing crisis.
Do one or all. Every little act of kindness helps.
#2. Copy the sign above and display it.
Select the sign at the top of this post. (Double click.) Copy. Paste to a blank page in an appropriate document (Word, Pages). Print. Hang in shop windows, post on bulletin boards, at work, school, the gym — anywhere where people meet and hangout. Encourage others to sign the petition and get involved in ‘affordable housing for all’ advocacy.
Tell your Senators and Representatives to fully funding HUD.
Panthers are going to Washington, D.C. to deliver the petition and talk to Congress.
Insist on HOUSING FIRST.
#6. Call the White House.
Phone: (202) 456-1111. Insist on HOUSING FIRST.
#7. Tie a silver ribbon around the old oak tree.
I live in Downtown Portland. I see houseless people everyday as I leave my home. Most people don’t have such a stark daily reminder. Visual reminders around our neighborhoods — and around the country should serve to remind us that we have brothers and sisters, some with little children, living on the cold, hard streets.
#8. Share this post with friends and family. Ask them to help as well.
#9. Contact charities in your community.
Find ways to help in the short term. Donate your time, dollars, and services. Be generous.
Find out more about us.