National Diaper Bank Network’s Post

Like many, I am devasted by the #LAfires and the people affected by the tragedy unfolding before us. As the fires begin to subside, people are left picking up the pieces of their lives. Loss of homes, jobs, community buildings, and at the very worst, lives. I was curious. How will the #jobmarket be affected by this disaster? I looked at the top service industry jobs in the LA MSA. If 50% of people are out of work (I think that's conservative), the economic impact will be significant in the community. A loss of $59B in Earnings and $8.5B in TPI. To take this a step further, women will be proportionately harmed as there was an overrepresentation of women in these service-related jobs. Looking at jobs in home health services, restaurant workers, janitors, retail, and people working with vulnerable populations. My hope is that our government and other non-profit organizations can take on the burden of immediately helping people find housing and cover life's basic necessities. But once those needs are met, we will have to work together to help people find sustainable work while their community is being rebuilt.

Solving Problems or Sustaining Them? Why Incentives May Be Killing Solutions Imagine this: You meet a cardiologist who cheerfully tells you, “Eat well, stay active, manage stress, and you’ll never need me!” Sounds great, right? But here’s the uncomfortable question: Does he really want that? After all, if everyone follows his advice, won’t his business flatline? Welcome to the incentive trap, where the goal is to solve a problem—but solving it might just make you obsolete. Homelessness: When Helping Keeps Growing the Numbers Take homelessness programs. Across the world, billions are spent to “alleviate” the crisis. Yet year after year, the numbers swell like an ignored pothole. Why? Because funding often depends on how many people you’re helping—not how few remain homeless. Reduce homelessness? The problem shrinks, and so does the funding. Success becomes your own worst enemy. It’s like paying firemen per fire they put out. You might wonder: Do they want fires to disappear, or do they just want a steady stream of “manageable flames”? Poverty Alleviation: Endless Circles, No Exit Remember those massive poverty-alleviation schemes? Endless initiatives, job training, micro-loans—you name it. But the real metric isn’t how many people lift themselves out of poverty, it’s often how many “beneficiaries” are still in the program. If reducing poverty meant cutting budgets and programs, would organizations really rush toward the finish line? Or would they walk briskly in circles, one press release at a time? The Uncomfortable Truth About Incentives It’s not about bad intentions; it’s about bad structures. If you tie someone’s survival to the existence of a problem, you’re asking them—implicitly—to sustain it. The cardiologist knows this. He genuinely wants you to be healthy, but if everyone followed his advice, he’d have a lot more free time (and a much smaller waiting room). The same applies to every professional working on big, systemic problems: - Homelessness programs: Measured by “people managed,” not “people housed.” - Poverty alleviation: Focused on outreach, not exit. - Healthcare advice: Eat better, live longer… but do you really need that fourth annual check-up? Time to Change the Game So, what if we flipped the incentives? - Reward outcomes, not activity. Funding grows when numbers shrink. - Celebrate obsolescence. The best programs would be those that end themselves. - Measure exits, not enrollments. Success is getting people out, not keeping them in. Solving problems requires funding. Sustaining problems guarantees it. Until we reward real results, we’ll keep applauding the cardiologist’s advice while making sure his calendar stays full. So here’s the real question: Are we fighting fires, or just keeping them burning at a controlled size? Would love to hear your take: Are we solving problems, or accidentally creating industries around them?

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.

What is wrong with this picture when people raise millions of dollars for corrupt politicians and we have homelessness in the streets growing more and more in our cities and others who are destitute? This situation highlights a significant issue in society: the unequal distribution of resources and the prioritization of certain causes over others. While it may be disheartening to witness the allocation of large sums of money towards supporting corrupt politicians while homelessness and poverty persist, it is crucial to understand some of the underlying factors that contribute to this problem: 1. Political Influence: The political landscape often involves complex dynamics where powerful individuals or interest groups contribute substantial amounts of money to support politicians who align with their own agendas. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on political campaigns and fundraising for specific candidates, diverting attention and resources away from pressing social issues. 2. Lack of Awareness or Empathy: Many people may not be fully aware of the extent of homelessness and poverty in their communities or may not fully grasp the underlying systemic causes that contribute to these issues. Without a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the homeless and destitute, it can be difficult to mobilize support or allocate resources effectively. 3. Fragmented Approach: Addressing homelessness and poverty requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort involving various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the community. However, these efforts are often fragmented, lacking a unified approach and adequate funding. In contrast, fundraising for political campaigns may be more centralized and organized, resulting in the accumulation of significant financial resources. 4. Political Priorities and Policies: Political priorities and policies vary across different jurisdictions and can influence resource allocation. Some governments may prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, while neglecting social welfare programs. This can exacerbate issues such as homelessness and poverty, as resources are not adequately directed towards addressing these challenges. 5. Systemic Issues: Homelessness and poverty are complex issues deeply rooted in systemic problems such as income inequality, lack of affordable housing, limited access to education and healthcare, and inadequate social support systems. These issues require long-term, systemic solutions that go beyond fundraising efforts alone. It is important to recognize that the allocation of resources is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves various stakeholders and factors. While it is disheartening to witness the disparity between fundraising for politicians and the plight of the homeless, addressing these systemic issues requires collective action, advocacy, and a commitment to social change.