Alms House history suggests its best use, with accountability

Dear Editor:

There obviously are many people who are passionately against the proposal to turn the historic Alms House in Kingston into affordable housing. This is, I think, less about the Alms House in particular and more about poverty in general.

Should it be approved, we’d be asked to give up some of our comfort and peace of mind, let alone our finances. It doesn’t seem fair because we work so hard to achieve what we have now — our property and social standing.

It’s especially difficult when it seems like there are so many people who take advantage of the system, and so many elements of society are, for all intents and purposes, on the decline.

Mental health, addictions and generational poverty are grave challenges to our local community and nation as a whole — the consequence of rampant capitalism and human nature. (Don’t get me wrong, capitalism is by far better than any other system.)

I work in an environment that serves families who this housing might assist. They are forced to bear the brunt of poverty.

These families don’t have the means, education or support to provide safe, loving homes. There is so much trauma and pain connected to poverty that, in turn, contributes to addiction, mental health disorders, homelessness, etc. It is a vicious cycle.

Are there those who take advantage? Yes. But please don’t assume that they’d not rather be in your shoes, and work for a decent living. Regardless of “fault,” they are still responsible for the choices going forward. We all are.

I think if we have the means — financial, mental, emotional — we absolutely should consider taking some responsibility. Be a good citizen and steward our fellow humans toward a better life.

We’re called on to have a preferential option for the poor. This demands charity and education. Perhaps a combination of responsibilities: help from those who have the means and (key word here) accountability for those who are at or below the poverty line.

We must support candidates who have proven successful in legislating for fair wages, responsible business practices and adequate health care. Additionally, we should consider donating or volunteering to programs that specifically aim for better education, teaching good financial practices, family planning and good mental health practices.

We must bolster the family and attempt to help heal wounded hearts. We might start to tip the scales in everyone’s favor.

Historically, the Alms House was, in fact, a facility built to care for the poor in the city. What an honor it would be to return the site to such a noble cause.

Michelle Kafel-Cintron Kingston