Letter: Pity the Scrooges who ignore needy

Monday, Dec. 21, 1998 | 10:32 a.m.

In a city with such profligate wealth, there is neither a reason nor an excuse for this distressing situation. The homeless are not asking for luxurious accommodations and those who do find shelter, most often sleep on thin mats on the floor. Many of these people are homeless because they are ill, injured, elderly or mentally handicapped, and are unable to work.

I continue to follow, with great interest, the letters printed in the Sun, and feel sad about the Grinch/Scrooge mentality of some of the writers. Thank you to the kind writers who responded to them.

Jesus told us, "Love one another, as I love you," "The poor you always have with you," and "Whatsoever you do to the least of my people, that you do unto me."

Mother Teresa gave us a shining example of how to observe the commandment "Love thy neighbor as thyself" by following God's will in our attitudes and daily lives. It is not for us to judge, but to help. God knows everyone has a heart, and will reward us accordingly.

Catholic Charities' Social Services is in great need of clean blankets, clean warm coats, caps, gloves, warm clothing, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes and certainly of any financial aid you are able to give. Specify that these items are intended for the use of Social Services, which provides direct aid to the homeless and other poor.

Among others with similar needs are the Las Vegas Rescue Mission, Shade Tree Shelter, the Salvation Army, and MASH Village. Whatever you can give fulfills a need, and there are many women and children among the homeless.

Let us all, as a community, join together and examine our hearts and our abilities to give and to help. Giving brings blessings of its own. May we all be blessed.

Evie Kinney