Letters: Homeless student's story inspires

Newsday received 11 letters about the story of Samantha Garvey. Ten writers congratulated Garvey, her family and her school district; one criticized Newsday for too much coverage of her story. Here's a sample:

It was good to read about the outpouring of support for Samantha Garvey, the Intel Science Talent Search semifinalist who has been living in a homeless shelter with her family [" 'It's a new beginning,' " News, Jan. 14].

However, as I read various articles, I became furious to learn that both of her parents work. What does this say about our country and our failed economy that people who work are homeless? How many Americans are in this same position? This is a national shame.

Our economic system continues to take its toll on too many, as people continue to worry about jobs, food, health care and more. The time has come for a different system based on this important ethical question asked by Eli Siegel, a poet and founder of the philosophy Aesthetic Realism: "What does a person deserve by being alive?"

This is a question that every prospective candidate for office should answer publicly.

Matthew D'Amico, Lynbrook

Three cheers for Samantha Garvey. No one talks about her motivation to study. Could it be because a homeless shelter does not offer unlimited television, iPods, cellphones, etc.?

Most teenagers spend more time with recreational toys than with their studies. Since Garvey was exposed to both worlds, the haves and the have-nots, I am sure she is able to appreciate the opportunity given to her now.

Pat King, Merrick

Samantha Garvey is a remarkable young woman, and her journey is an inspiration.

This is the new face of homelessness on Long Island. The turbulent economy has forced many hardworking families from their homes and into shelters and uncertainty. On any given night, up to 500 Suffolk County families rely on emergency housing, while countless others turn to friends or family for temporary housing, or live in motels or even in cars. Many are two-parent, working families, but due to some economic calamity, they find themselves without a home.

Homeless children suffer the most and are at an unfair educational disadvantage, typically lagging two grades behind their peers. Our schools continue to see increased enrollment of homeless students, yet much-needed financial assistance to address their needs is in jeopardy due to budget constraints. The children without permanent homes need extra attention if they are to succeed and lead productive lives.

The high cost of living on Long Island and the record number of home foreclosures show how fragile the balance is between having a home and becoming homeless.

Karen Boorshtein, Huntington

Editor's note: The writer is president of the Family Service League, a nonprofit human services organization.