'Occupy' camps provide food, shelter for homeless

[Divine Discontent]

snip of longer article from - http://online.wsj.com/article/AP1ad8063f8c3a427b92a69e3d55f982a1.html



Micaiah Dutt, Veteran, speaking to protestors




OCTOBER 22, 2011, 11:23 A.M. ET

PORTLAND, Oregon — When Occupy Wall Street protesters took over two parks in Portland's soggy downtown, they pitched 300 tents and offered free food, medical care and shelter to anyone. They weren't just building, like so many of their brethren across the nation, a community to protest what they see as corporate greed.

They also created an ideal place for the homeless. Some were already living in the parks, while others were drawn from elsewhere to the encampment's open doors.

"We're here to spoil each other," said Kat Enyeart, a 25-year-old medic who says she spends half her time tending to the homeless, some of whom are physically and mentally ill. "It's a big, messy, beautiful thing."

Micaiah Dutt, a four-tour veteran of the Iraq War said the protests are not just about the radicals and the politicians. "It's about our community taking care of itself because the city, county and federal governments have neglected this population," he said.



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[ck4829]

1. When was the last time you saw a Koch or a Scaife do this?

*crickets*

They may not have the 'trickle down' or the 'liberal media' on their side, but these youth are doing more for our country than these guys have ever done.

[Luminous Animal]

2. I strongly urge that everyone who lives near an occupy camp go and visit.

It is an amazing experience. Bring donations!

[Divine Discontent]

3. +1

[coalition_unwilling]

16. I strongly concur. Visiting Occupy Los Angeles on four successive

weekends has been among the most moving experiences of my life. Although I came of age politically in top-down hierarchical political structures, watching these folks grapple with the hard issues surrounding equality and liberty will inspire and move anyone with eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart that feels.

Incredible.

[xchrom]

4. in short: support each other. nt

[1776Forever]

5. K&R So many in need - This is what real Democracy looks like! n/t

[Posteritatis]

6. "The Beginning Is Near" - I really, really like that. (nt)

[Divine Discontent]

10. I HAD to put that in the post. I saw it in the Portland pics, and I really appreciated their

positive sentiment and message.



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[BeanCounting]

7. They are doing an amazing job

Myself and my two grown kids participated in a march last night in Eugene, OR due to the snit the local media caused the campers because of them camping in the Saturday Market area. The occupiers were very aware and had planned to leave in advance to let the Saturday Vendors do their thing, but the media did a great job of pointing out all the "homeless" and such joining in the movement. So far from the truth! Eugene does have too large a population of homeless, many of them kids the locals call "mall rats" and the camp is feeding 800 people each day with the wealth of donations they are getting. The camp is probably only 100 protesters, but they are doing an amazing job. My daughter spent a night volunteering in the medical aid tent. They have a library tent. They have a community kitchen tent and cook a hot meal for anyone who shows up. They have a stockpile of pet food, and other everyday necessities. They are planning a Halloween Party for the kids of the camp next week. Quite a nice community if you ask me. And I am so proud of them! I have seen more intelligent people taking the time to educate and explain economics to others than I can remember. At this last march I saw many seniors, nurses and blue collar workers. I will keep supporting them and I hope our community keeps supporting them in this endeavor. Some of us may have to go home to our jobs, but I am very happy to know there are many that can stay and make this sacrifice. Thank you!

[ClarkUSA]

8. If you go to an OWS camp, bring a little ready-to-eat food & non-alcoholic beverages to share.

It's much appreciated.

[occupyeverywhere]

9. There were quite a few homeless people at Occupy Freedom plaza

Guess what? The experience is great for them. One guy was all riled up at first, after a couple of days he was going out on actions and helping in with the camps day to day. Great people, all they want is a chance to be a part of a community and this gave them that chance.

[Fire Walk With Me]

11. Kick and Recommend for brotherly love!

:toast: Edit: I think I'm getting a little teared-up. :)

[RainDog]

12. k&r n/t

[elocs]

13. K&R

[tavalon]

14. This is what Occupy Seattle should be

Unfortunately, we got cold clocked by our Mayor and "Seattle Nice". I'm just grateful that the eyes of the world aren't on Seattle as they were during the WTO protest. Seattle comported itself admirably in that situation, we haven't, alas, done so well this time.

Good Job Portlandia!

[XanaDUer]

15. That top sign rocks!

:headbang: