There is a prevailing sentiment in America that the majority of homeless people are responsible for their own situation. It is a common belief that either they made the choice to abuse alcohol or drugs, or chose to be with the wrong partner; but whatever the circumstance, it is believed they could have avoided becoming homeless with some work ethic and self control. Let's face it, the men and women holding up "homeless" signs at the interstate aren't helping matters either.

The face of the homeless has changed. More and more, the growing ranks of homeless consist of people urgently seeking a remedy by actively pursuing employment, along with every other option available to find permanent housing. Consider the families throughout the Big Bend who have consolidated living arrangements over the past few years since the economy fell. Children and grandchildren are moving back into their parent's and grandparent's homes, feeling fortunate to have that option available. Of course, not everyone has such an option, so homelessness grows.

On April 25, at the monthly Shared Services meeting sponsored by the Healthy Start Coalition of Jefferson, Madison and Taylor Counties and held at the Taylor County School Board, members and guests were introduced to this social crisis. Janis Thibodeau of the Big Bend Homeless Coalition, which is supported locally through AmeriCorps VISTA and other programs, introduced three guests who provided a stirring glimpse into this phenomenon. As the discussion concluded, all agreed this growing crisis deserves local and national attention.

AmeriCorps VISTA is a national service program designed specifically to fight poverty, including the support of homeless. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965 and incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for more than 40 years. Partnering in this mission, the Big Bend Homeless Coalition has declared a mission "to end homelessness in the Big Bend through leadership, education, advocacy, and the provision of quality services."

All in attendance applauded each speaker following his inspiring testimony, with topics ranging from overcoming a learning disability to divorce and a subsequent mortgage meltdown. The speakers didn't avoid the notion of personal responsibility; however, it was simply that each possessed the common drive of seeking permanent employment as part of the solution to permanent housing. Each had a notable conviction for work and education. There wasn't a bum in the bunch.

Headquartered in Tallahassee, the Big Bend Homeless Coalition gratefully requests the assistance of those with a few dollars or items to donate. Please phone today at (850) 576-5566, or visit them online at www.bigbendhc.org for more details. Volunteers are also urged to email volunteers@bigbendhc.org.