Bulletin Downtown Community Ministry
Will you “Pimp this bum”?

12 March 2009

An online marketing campaign, drawing attention to homelessness, in America has gained worldwide attention and also criticism.

The www.pimpthisbum.com website, controversially named to grab people’s attention, profiles Houston man Tim Edwards who has lived on the streets for 5 years.

The website has regular video updates from Tim that tell viewers about life on the streets. Also on the front page is a list of things Tim needs that people can donate. Recently a five-week alcohol recovery programme was donated for Tim to attend.

“The creators of the website have done well to bring the story of a man’s experience of homelessness to the masses,” says Downtown Community Ministry Director Stephanie McIntrye.

“But real commitment is required if we are to make real inroads for people experiencing homelessness.

“Our approach would be to house Tim. We don’t believe true progress can be made until this happens. All the improvements to Tim’s situation look great but miss the core issue of getting him housed.

“International best practice now recognises housing first as a successful and effective model. It is premised on the notion that people need homes before they can start to address their issues and support needs. The starting point must be a stable, secure and long-term tenancy.”

ENDS

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