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To End Homelessness, Stop Buying Holiday Decor?

Americans will spend more than the $20B that HUD needs

By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff

Posted Dec 11, 2012 9:16 AM CST

(Newser) – If Americans passed on buying Christmas trees, illuminated reindeer, and poinsettias, and instead donated the money they would have spent to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, we could theoretically end homelessness. Or so says ThinkProgress. HUD's latest annual report shows that progress isn't being made quickly enough to end homelessness by the stated goal of 2020. What is needed? An increase in HUD's budget from $1.9 billion to $20 billion, says a HUD official. ThinkProgress puts that figure in context with an infographic that shows we'll spend more than that this year on seasonal decor alone.

  (Shutterstock)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 54 comments
Major7
Dec 12, 2012 12:24 PM CST
This presupposes that money alone can solve the homeless problem.  In case you Newser guys haven't been reading your own articles, some people are homeless by their own will.
usa1mac
Dec 12, 2012 7:48 AM CST
I like Christmas decorations, so I cannot support this.   However, I'm not into sports, so how about we get rid of all professional sports and use that money to end homelessness?   People should find better uses for their time anyhow.  I don't visit art museums very often, so I'd be OK if that went too.  They are just full of imported art anyway.   The possibilities are limitless as long as we only get rid of the stuff I don't care about.
myflap.blow
Dec 11, 2012 7:16 PM CST
if the christmas light and decoration manufacturers just contributed to a program for every item sold...? btw, i noticed on the new lights i just bought that it says they are only good for three seasons. Whats up wit dat?! I still have light strings from my parents day! Perhaps a national program where you donate your old light strings and all the recycled copper money ($$$!) can go towards building more homeless shelters or something.

 
homeless • Christmas • Housing and Urban Development • Department of Housing and Urban Development

 
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