Proposed Aggressive Panhandling Ordinance Not the Answer, says Homeless Shelter CEO
by Staff
September 13, 2007
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (ANS) -- A proposed new ordinance by Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez plan to crack down on aggressive panhandling in Albuquerque has Joy Junction Homeless Shelter Founder and CEO Dr. Jeremy Reynalds concerned.The Albuquerque Journal reported that Chavez said the proposed ordinance "goes after professional panhandlers, those who invade our privacy and those who invade our public areas in a negative fashion."
Reynalds said while he understands justified concern about panhandlers who are, as one panhandler told the Albuquerque Journal, "aggressive, drunk and disorderly while asking for money," he has concerns about an expanded ordinance.
"There's a dramatic increase in Albuquerque's homeless," Reynalds said. "In fact, I would call it a crisis."
Reynalds said the proposed panhandling ordinance is a Band Aid on a problem that he believes some people in Albuquerque would prefer to think doesn't exist.
Reynalds added, "Just over four years ago Joy Junction was sheltering about 150 people each night. Now we are sheltering over 300 people each night on a regular basis, so it's obvious that the situation is escalating. A panhandling ordinance doesn't address the root issue of why the number of homeless people in Albuquerque is increasing. It's not enough to tell a homeless person to "Go get a job.' Some of our guests at Joy Junction have been through unspeakable emotional and physical devastation in their lives, and as a result they are unable to find regular employment until those issues are addressed."
Reynalds said that Joy Junction is seeing remarkable results occur with addicted individuals who complete the shelter's faith-based six-month life recovery program.
"It is very exciting to see lives being put back together with the ultimate aim of people getting back on their feet again and becoming contributing members of the community," he said.
Reynalds had advice for those people who do want to help panhandlers. "If you see a person who is asking for money for food, you can take or her to the nearest fast food restaurant and buy a meal. However, I advise against giving money as you could be contributing to the life controlling issues that the panhandler may be experiencing."
Reynalds encouraged people going around town who are concerned about panhandlers, but don't wish to stop, to call Joy Junction at 1 800 924-0569. "We'll send our van out and see if they would like a place to stay," he said.
