Some things that you may not think about when giving to the homeless.

[Lady Freedom Returns]

95. There are a lot of reasons. But here are a few.

One reason is how long they have been on their own. Many have been hurt so bad that they can't trust other. Others are scared for what little they have. Some shelters have a one bag policy, that means if you have 2 small bags, you can only take one in with you. This is also the case for food stuff. Many shelters do not allow food to be brought in. You don't want to loss that so they don't go in.

Many have misdemeanor warrants for fly signs and trespassing for sleeping in places like parks past the time they are open. Many Shelters do background checks on those that come for help. They don't want to go to jail so they don't go in.

Then some have small pocket knives that are used for protection and for eating utensils, are afraid that the will get confiscated. Many shelters will tale them away and not give them back, some will take but give them back when you leave. But once bitten, twice shy. They won't go back.

Then we get into those that have pets. Many shelters have rules that pets are not allowed. The homeless have a choice, get rid of the dog or cat, or stay out. They are so close to their pets they will freeze before letting them go. Those animals are the last thing of family and love many have. So the shelter won't their family in, they won't go.

Then we have the religious aspect. There are many that don't want to be made to worship, many have become atheist due to feeling that God hates them. Others, because they are not Christian. They can not bring themselves to convert, to say, for shelter.

Then we enter the group that are VERY anti-social, will not talk, will have nothing to do with anyone or anything. Many times it is due to mental illness. Other times they have just been hurt that bad.