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COMMENTARY A little kokua goes a long way By Brian Schatz |
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A society ought to measure its level of civilization by the way it treats its least fortunate members. In America, with arguably the world's strongest economy, most of us thrive financially in comparison to counterparts from other countries. We've created the largest middle class in history, but the same characteristics that make a vibrant free market — emphasis on individual choice and achievement, the freedom to innovate, and minimal government intervention — make being poor in America an exceptionally perilous condition. Unlike our friends in Europe and Canada, our social safety net isn't leak-proof.
In Hawai'i the stakes are higher and the margins slimmer. While our safety net is stronger than in other states, skyrocketing rent, fuel and food costs are busting even middle-class budgets. Many received a raise in the past couple of years, but the increased cost of necessities means that most salary bumps were spent before the money got deposited. From milk to gasoline, from haircuts to housing, most everyone is feeling squeezed.
Many feel "broke," even if technically they're not poor. This pinch is much worse for those who aren't fortunate enough to be in the middle class. One sudden expense, like new brake pads, unexpected surgery or an increase in rent can send a family's budget reeling.
From 2005 to 2006, when local publications ran such headlines as "State's budget surplus may get larger" and "Hawai'i's economy still looking spectacular, thanks to real estate," the number of people living on the streets increased from 9,124 to 9,795. And the number of high school students qualifying for subsidized lunch has risen by about 1 percentage point per year over the past five years.
But enough statistics. Here are real stories about your neighbors, with their permission:
Since then, their housing situation has worsened, and they've moved from home to home for shelter and sometimes lived in their car. To compound their challenges, Rick's vehicle recently broke down and they do not have money to fix it. Their only source of income is welfare, and Rick's trying to find new work but it's not easy due to their children's needs and their transportation situation. Their son continues to be in and out of the intensive care unit, so they take turns, one staying with him in the hospital while the other watches the three healthy children.
She has a high school diploma and works as a cashier on Bellows Air Force Base, and is applying for other jobs but has no experience outside of retail. She's looking for affordable housing to share with a coworker and her son. Her child is very active and enjoys playing outdoors, but has no toys to play with — she borrows her cousins' toys when they are together. She's asked for some educational toys for Christmas, so that there will be something under the tree.
These families have worked hard and played by the rules, but a few unfortunate breaks and no margin for error have put them at the economic margins of our society.
They are just trying to get through the day, and they need our kokua.
I'm not writing this to lay a guilt trip on you if you are fortunate enough to be economically stable in Hawai'i's uneven market; it's a proud accomplishment that likely came from hard work and talent. But if you find that your car is air-conditioned, your mortgage is manageable and you have enough left over for an iPod, a trip to Vegas or season tickets to UH football, then you are probably in a position to help your neighbors during the holiday season.
There are dozens of reputable and efficient nonprofit agencies that tackle the spectrum of human needs. For example, the Institute for Human Services provides shelter and supportive housing for those who have lost their place to live. The Hawaii Foodbank gives food to those in need. The Domestic Violence Clearinghouse and Legal Hotline works to prevent domestic violence and support victims in achieving justice, safety and stability. And Helping Hands Hawai'i's Community Clearinghouse provides durable household items and emergency financial assistance to families in need.
Call 211 for a complete listing of Hawai'i's social service agencies to help you select the charity that captures your heart and imagination.
Please find a way to give as much as you can to help our neighbors make it in Hawai'i.
Brian Schatz, CEO of Helping Hands Hawai'i, wrote this commentary for The Advertiser.
