No one knows how many traveling kids move through Chattanooga each year. Still, homeless outreach workers with the Chattanooga Community Kitchen say the community should be aware of transient youth coming in and out of local train yards.
Jens Christensen, a representative from the Community Kitchen, offers some insight into how and why the community should respond to this underground population.
Q: You see kids come through Chattanooga every year. What do you know about them and their history with the city?
A: (Freight train riders) have been coming for many years and over the years have ranged from dangerous forces to travelers simply passing through for a while on their way to nowhere in particular. While the group seems to change, many things stay the same. They usually have animals that need care, signs that ask for money, and move in small groups.
The groups have a long history and seem to have loose-knit information and resource networks similar to the hobos of days past.
Q: Is there any concern about whether these youths are dangerous or engaged in illegal activities?
A: There are certainly rumors and suggestions of danger and illegal behavior. There seem to be increased levels of drug use among this crowd, though the groups for the most part seem to stay to themselves.
Q: How are these traveling kids different from the other homeless people you serve?
A: In general, the Community Kitchen gears services toward homeless Chattanoogans who hope to get back on their feet and become self-sufficient. The train riders don't hide the fact that they aren't interested in joining the work force and settling down.
Generally if they are seeking services, they're looking for the basics - a meal, a place to take a shower, a meeting with a doctor or case worker and perhaps some camping supplies.
One unique thing we try to do is to connect them with vaccinations and services for their animals. While we do not want to enable their choices, we also don't want unvaccinated dogs running around.
Q: Should people give money to traveling kids when they see them asking for it? Should they buy them food or groceries?
A: Don't give to panhandlers. While there are occasionally legitimate reasons people may panhandle, too often panhandling is a way of life. As long as people give to panhandlers, the activity will continue. As a rule, we suggest that instead of giving money, give information.
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