SF: The homeless must stay homeless

Making sure a homeless guy who is trying to better himself knows his place. [Link]

The San Francisco Chronicle reported on the plight of Larry Moore, an alcoholic who decided nearly a year ago that he could do better than living on the street. He shined shoes.

He saved his money.

He had $573 toward the $600 he needed for rent. The newspaper did a story on him. A bureaucrat read the story and — demanded most of his money for a “permit.”

Reported C.W. Nevius of the Chronicle: “Along Market Street, Moore’s supporters are indignant. Nothing happens when mentally ill men wander the street talking to themselves and drunkards pee in the alleys. Yet Moore creates a little business out of thin air, builds up a client base, and the city takes nearly every penny he’s earned.”

Because we don't want people able to fend for themselves.