KEEPING DRUGS OUT OF PUBLIC HOUSING

The irresponsible, erroneous editorial of March 27 on drugs and public
housing, "Kicking out grandma," exposes the very attitude that has allowed
drug use to run rampant in this country, increasing crime and ruining families.

Taking responsibility is the key. If families living in public housing on
the taxpayers' dollar associate with family members or others using drugs,
they will have to find solace elsewhere. This zero tolerance policy is
exactly what is needed to clean up public housing and make it safe for
those in need of it.

Look at all the housing projects that have been completely ruined by
illegal drug use and the parasitic crime that goes with it hand in hand.
Pruitt-Igoe was a perfect example of what can happen when crime and drugs
are allowed to flourish.

I have lived in public housing, and I was grateful that the government was
able to give me a hand up. Others should be as appreciative.

We are our brother's keeper. Maybe Grandma should have paid more attention
to the people in her household and the habits they keep.

Cindy VonderBruegge

Kimmswick