SUPPORT NEEDED FOR REHABILITATION

Re: Lots of jobs out there (letter, Aug. 29).

So Sheri Leason is appalled that street people (drug and alcohol
addicts) just don't wake up one day, quit their addictions and find a
good-paying job. Perhaps she could tell them how and who will hire
them in their present circumstances.

I am sure not all street people are addicts. Many are in this
situation due to the consequences of life. We are not all well
nurtured and skip through our teen years unscathed. Many have been
abused and have never known a loving family life. Do you really
believe they like going to soup kitchens, sleeping in back alleys and
being looked down on by a society that doesn't care or try to
understand their circumstances?

Ms. Leason mentioned "pride." Most of these people have long ago had
any pride stomped out of them.

Let's get serious here. These people need help, real help like
reasonable rehabilitation. That isn't just an overnight stay at a
hostel with a meal but as-long-as-it-takes rehabilitation to those
that are willing and able. Some will never rehabilitate. However, some
will and that is a Victory.

Every life is worth living given a chance. Our very wealthy government
could help if only it had the political will.

Andrew Tejero put it into perspective in his letter of Aug. 30 (Social
issues won't be solved with "get a job" cliches)

Evelyn Rebman

Prince George