Should journalists be required to repay the agencies & shelters when they POSE as a homeless person?

Question

I am referring to writers like Adam Shepard, who intentionally set out on a 12 month journey as a homeless person in order to write a book! He is being quite vocal about this on the internet as well as the Major news stations. He says his parents are PROUD of him. He's 23 & just out of College. He left his credit cards at home when he went "homeless". Can we say

COMMUNITY SERVICE & PAY BACK THE SYSTEM?

What are your thoughts on this type of blatant abuse that is draining the City services in so many cities today? As a formerly homeless person myself, I am outraged!

Answer 1

When I was homeless I used the 'system' too, shelters, food lines, welfare etc. Now I am not homeless, and I repay my debit by donating to those same charities and agencies. If I took a shower at the Catholic Workers, I give money to them now to pay for the soap, hot water and staffing. I work at the food bank and others. Adam Shepard knew he had an 'out' if things got bad enough, and I don't think he was burdened with deep phsycological, social, phsychiatric or substance abuse issues either. Most of the people I met on street were the toughest I have seen. Adam's quest was one of personal self agrandizement, I hope someone gives a blanket to the guy sleeping in the gutter tonight on his behalf. Whatever the motivation, people need to see the man on the street, not as a burden, but as a man. If he has made us aware, he may have payed his debit, if not, he should make a documentery showing him doing 12 months of selfless community service. I can say I am proud of myself now, it is rare to get and stay off the street. Most folks really have no concept of homelessnes, but I explain it by saying, "take everything out of your pockets and walk away"!

Answer 2

The ideal may be great, but the means is not. However may be, it  was inevitable that  he had to resort to what he did under the circumstances. But then he should  pay for what he has used. It certainly  is no community service  as he has something to gain from his adventure, be it headlines in the media,or proceeds from the book he intends to write. In my opinion service of any kind does and should not need any advertisement nor any expectation of any kind to the self .

Answer 3

My first thought when I saw this kid on TV this morning was, "Did you take a bed that should have gone to someone who was truly in need?"  I'm all for investigative journalism, but not at the expense of someone else's well-being.  I hope he uses his book profits to fund the services he used.