The Second 50

The definition of bother extends to feeling worried or disturbed about something.

I reflected on what worries me, and the first thing that came to mind is money. I always like to plan and budget to ensure the bills are paid and that we are putting something away for a rainy day.  Like many, the cost of living impacts our family, and we have needed to get smarter so our money works harder for us.

I then reflected on what disturbs me. That one is easy. Homelessness. I can’t believe that in a first world country, we have such a significant homelessness issue.  I get that it’s complicated, and there is no silver bullet. But I also know that part of the issue relates to lack of housing stock, which in part has led to increased home values and rental costs. I’m no economist, but it’s about supply and demand right and lack of supply is driving up prices, which is in effect, pricing people out of the market.

The combination of those things means many people are living in their cars, couch surfing, or sleeping rough. In fact, late last week, there was a story in our local media about a woman with a child on multiple life support systems who is soon to lose her home. The child needs access to 24/7 electricity to maintain access to life support. A stable, secure home is critical.

She sought help from the state housing department, where a representative told her to think positive and ‘manifest’ a house. In the meantime, they told her where she could get a free tent.

I mean, come on. As a society, surely can we do better. More than thinking positive, we need to take real action to build more homes for all.

That’s what bothers me!