Letter: Each entity must assist homeless

Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2003 | 8:59 a.m.

Among the homeless are those who are mentally ill, those who have addictions to drugs, alcohol and gambling, those who are unemployed, families, and those who choose not to be part of society.

I live in West Las Vegas, where we bear the brunt of the homeless problem. I have a problem with people -- especially the residents of affluent communities who don't see or feel the effects of the homeless problem -- who are so quick to say we are against the homeless.

Have they ever had to chase homeless people off of their lawns, where they were napping? Have they ever had their garbage scattered by someone looking for food or cans? Have they ever been awakened at night because a homeless person was banging on their front door demanding money? Have they or their children ever seen someone defecating or urinating on a sidewalk in broad daylight? Have they been intimidated while at a stoplight by someone demanding money?

Unfortunately, these are the realities for residents of West Las Vegas. When did we lose our right to quality of life?

The state of Nevada, the cities of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas and Henderson, and Clark County must work together to provide services for homeless. The need is to work together for benefit, not credit. We need to establish services in each jurisdiction for families, children, single men, mentally ill and addicts.

DANIEL L. CAONTRERAS