...the kind of change they can really use

The sign on the subway reads, Give the homeless the kind of change they can really use. Clever way  to remind us not to give our money to someone soliciting on the train, but to support programs that help homeless people move off the streets into more acceptable quarters. The economy continues to challenge all of us, but the homeless are especially hard hit because of massive budget cuts.

And on top of the economics, the weather is cold, cold, cold. Sleeping in subways, trains and any available shelter is common. Maybe beyond my border of comfort or yours, but not always a choice for the homeless. Yesterday when I entered the train, the middle seating area was open on one side, but on the other side, a man stretched out on the entire seat, sleeping. Passengers on the usually crowded car gave him space and people either stood or sat in other parts of the train. We may be trying, but we aren't reaching many of the  people who need new quarters, at least here and now.