BEYOND CHARITY

Endorsement:

Beyond Charity: A Sojourner’s Reflections on Homelessness, Advocacy, Empowerment, and Hope by Dr. DeBorah Gilbert White is much more powerful than just reflections on homelessness. It is a “Call to Action.” Those of us who are compassionate, spiritual beings, must become activists, to ensure that our people are living in safe, affordable housing. She points out that the propaganda, about the homeless population, has been created to elicit both a lack of empathy and a lack of action. We must correct this inhumane condition that impacts over 2.5 million children, with another 15% of the population in each state, struggling with housing insecurity. Our preconceived notions, of homelessness, are not accidental and are challenged, in Dr. Gilbert White’s book. Over half, of those who are homeless, are Melanics (People of Color). Her book is a frightening reminder, that those of us who live in comfortable homes could become homeless, overnight, due to a myriad of circumstances, including mental illness, COVID-19, ageism, and racism. Dr. Gilbert White is a dedicated, advocate who presents a compelling statement about why and how the United States of America must make housing our people, and passing a bill of rights for the homeless, a priority. Everyone deserves housing!

-Dr. Ayo Maria Gooden, President Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists