This letter comes during a time of challenge for our community, as Knox County Homeless Coalition, Habitat for Humanity and state and local partners try to take a lead in solving the critical need for affordable housing. 

Below is a letter we are proud to share, written by a resident of Hospitality House, our family shelter in Rockport. This letter was motivated by what our client saw in the papers last week outlining the content and outcome of a Zoning Board meeting in the town of Rockport. 

I am a homeless person living at the Hospitality House.  Just so the skeptics out there know, being here has made me more aware than ever of the misconceptions around homelessness. It is so challenging to find housing in this community, thank goodness there are some people in this world who are willing to see me for the human I am.  Please understand, you are not better than the rest of us, we bleed, and we feel just like everyone else.  We are not asking for a handout, simply a hand up in a world that has made housing impossibly difficult.  We care so deeply for others, and the assumption that all people experiencing homelessness are drug addicts or “crazy” is sad and offensive.  We are not even asking YOU to fix anything, but consider not standing in the way for other human beings who are willing to support this community, this entire community.  You are not better than us.  Lastly, if you ever found yourself in a place of needing support, I would be one of the first to offer you the dignity and respect that we all deserve.  If I sound angry, I am, it is so painful to read these articles and listen to the dialogue that is filled with assumptions and miss-conception, I am already at a disadvantage in this impossible housing market, please don’t try to take away my humanity too.  

KCHC is an organization of excellence—in all of our housing, programming, support services and community outreach. We are dedicated to safety and security for all of our constituents—clients, community, volunteers and team. All we engage in is fueled with a commitment to respect, dignity and caring. 

With respect and gratitude to all in our wonderful shared community,

Molly Feeney is director of social services and Stephanie Primm is executive director. both at the Knox County Homeless Coalition