"Jonathan Ganz" wrote in message

Yeah, it's a tough problem with no easy solution. It's really sad to
see *some* of the kids from that sort of situation.

You might have said *the vast majority* rather than *some.*

I'm part of non-profit
that attempts to give them some self-worth, which I guess is better
than nothing. We sponsor a few kids each year for sailing lessons...
we cover the expense and have been able to get a local gourmet
restaurant to kick in lunch.

A friend and I founded a program here to enable such kids to have
pets--those that the Pet Refuge take in and attempt to place in homes. We
gave the kids classes on caring for their pets (mostly cats and dogs),
provided them with all the animal food and pet supplies they need, and we
had two veterinarians who cared for their pets gratis. Our members
monitored the kids and their pets regularly, and maintained a 24/7 "hotline"
for problems. I had to leave the program after 15 years due to time
constraints, but it thrives today in good hands.

Studies have shown that pets instill a sense of responsibility in kids.
They've also demonstrated that kids with pets tend to be less violent,
kinder to their peers. Yes, there have been some dismal failures, but the
program has had a substantial net profit on the humanity income statement.

Max