In this season of giving and giving thanks, I was struck by a story I read out of Ashland, Oregon, about a portable restroom placed in a downtown area to serve the homeless population. That the city council in this town felt the need was so great that they had to authorize a restroom placement to serve destitute persons living in the streets points to a sad reality.
This is a land of great opportunity for many. I am thankful this holiday season that I have a warm home, a happy family and a decorated Christmas tree to gather around. But this story is a reminder than many are not as fortunate as I am.
According to the Ashland Daily Tidings, the restroom is needed because the homeless have few, if any, options for public restrooms at night. A nearby public bathroom closes at 4 p.m., and the homeless have resorted to public urination and defecation.
Read more about the restroom for the homeless here:
http://www.dailytidings.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20121208/NEWS02/212080306/-1/NEWSMAP
Is homelessness an issue in your area? Maybe you could approach local officials with this solution to the challenges of providing sanitation options.
Questions, comments and suggestions are encouraged. You can respond right here or send me an email at editor@promonthly.com.
