Solution to homeless camp can be found

I sympathize with the visitors to the Fayetteville National Cemetery who have to put up with the homeless situation nearby at the Tiffany property. It can be distressing to be confronted with human need when one is grieving or honoring a fallen relative.

At the same time, the Tiffanys must see a dire need or they would not allow homeless people to live on their land. I don’t know them, have never met them, but was touched by Gladys Tiffany’s letter on Tuesday about the situation.

Both sides of this issue have a point. Almost all homeless people would rather have a stable living arrangement. Most visitors to the cemetery want to feel comfortable, clean and safe. The fact is, Fayetteville has a sizeable number of homeless people who will not merely dissolve into thin air. Housing costs, middle-class attitudes and politics being what they are, a solution and some give and take must take place.

First, I suggest the Tiffanys try (with some help) to bring some organization to the crowd of homeless people. I believe the group could try some organizing and clean-up. Perhaps some homeless advocates need to get involved to bring in portable toilets, figure out food issues and communicate with the group.

And of course, the city of Fayetteville must get involved in a kindly way to see this is resolved in a mature and civilized fashion, and that this doesn’t become a public health issue. The Tiffanys are obviously acting out of conscience. (And let’s take note, because this society, at this time, could use more of that.)

Let’s take the high road, help them and the whole situation to improve and show the county we can be better than we think. We’re a brainy, talented community. There is a solution, I’m sure, and one that allows us to sleep well at night. JULI ODUM Farmington