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Monday, April 25, 2016

Helping the Homeless

Every city has homeless people, it is something that is very common in not only America, but also all around the world. This group decided to attempt to solve the issue of homelessness. Their idea was to invent a vending machine that would be placed behind restaurants for homeless people to use. They would use food that has been thrown out and is going to waste, and turn it into a benefit for homeless people. Their system involved using a card similar to the ones students use at college. They said that you would simply go to a soup kitchen and register your card, and there would be one meal per day on the card as well as $1.00-3.00 per day. During this group's presentation I saw some good, and some bad. For the good, I think it was good that they opened up their presentation by giving statistics. They were able to introduce the topic with credibility. They were able to address concerns they thought about as well, however, they did not cover enough concern. As for constructive criticism, they had quite a few loopholes. They did not get specific enough during their presentation. Things that weren't addressed includes how the meals are processed from being wasted food, to a meal in a vending machine, and there is no way of knowing if these people are actually homeless. In order to make this project successful, there needs to be regulation through a higher power. It is a loose plan right now, and it would be much better if they established better credibility. They have a very good idea that has a lot of potential, but it is more of a brainstorming idea right now rather than a legitimate solution to a problem. A few questions arise when considering this presentation. The group said that there would be a few dollars per day on the card that would be funded through donation and restaurants, however, that is more of an assumption.First, how do we know that people will invest in this cause? And if this becomes unsuccessful in the future there will be a decrease in funding. It would also be an issue to find placement for the machines. I also do not agree with the fact that they receive money on their card. They more than likely will not spend it on things they need, they will probably spend it on things they want. As someone who is homeless you should worry about your well-being and going off of the streets, not getting money to spend on their wants. The group stated that many people find  the homeless as an issue and a nuisance, so how do we know that restaurants would want this type of environment behind their business? I think if this project had a little bit more thought behind it, it would be successful because it is a very good idea.

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