[loeschg]

I agree with this. I can't speak for SF specifically, but a lot of places with high homeless populations have organizations, systems, and resources to help those in need. From my understanding, one of the problems is people outside of the organizations unintentionally undermining the organizations by giving food, handouts, etc. When people receive this sort of help, they don't see a need to go to these organizations that help identify and ideally fix the root issue.

Fixing the homeless problem is complicated. I don't think that gives you an excuse to do nothing though. I think the app is interesting, and I think could could come from it. I think the effort is better spent focusing on more permanent solutions. Maybe try joining up with a homeless organization and pitching them the idea.

[jmathai]

I'm a big proponent of organizations and systems. They're probably the most efficient mechanism but they don't address all of the issues. Sometimes a homeless person doesn't want/need food or shelter, they just want someone passing by to notice them and take a few minutes to chat.

I'm of the mind that if you feel led to do something then you should follow your gut.