The Homeless Occupy Wall Street

Among protesters camping out in the Occupy movements, a growing number of homeless people have been occupying the campgrounds with them. Many suffer from mental illness as well as physical needs. They know that if they come and join the movement, they will be provided the same amenities as non-homeless protesters. That means food, shelter, protection, and company with others. Non-homeless protesters who have been camping out have felt that the homeless have created more harm than good. Yes, they add a voice because there are so many homeless people wanting to join, approximately 30% of the protesters lately have consisted of them. However, mental illness has constituted a problem with disruptiveness, and a lot of people don't feel safe at night with so many homeless people around. Disruptive demonstrators were thrown out of the campground and sent to the Peachtree-Pine homeless shelter. The act gave the demonstration more of a political focus, and not incidentally expanded its size. It has been found that many homeless people believe in the same goals as the Occupy protesters while others are merely trying to find provisions any way they can. Michele Watson, one of the managers of the food tent, said in reference to the homeless people, "If you are hungry and are in need of a meal, we will serve you as long as you do not disrupt the occupiers. We don’t turn anyone away. I don’t care what your address is."