FAQ
Why does Skid Row exist in Los Angeles?
The reasons for an area like Skid Row to exist in America are many. Cities in every part of the world—developed or developing are always centers for poverty. Cities in every part of the world – developed or developing- are always centers for poverty. America, with its open door to immigrants, and Los Angeles in particular as an entry point for many immigrants, holds true to this reality. Cities in America are places where people can start over with nothing.
Another reason for Skid Row in America is related to the above in that the U.S. government system and American culture promotes opportunity for people to succeed or fail on their own. It also provides a safety net for people who do not succeed on their own. Many of these social services concentrate downtown and when people are down on their luck, they gravitate to where services can be found, which can create a community of people who are service-dependent. To add a spiritual dimension, Jesus tells his disciples (Matthew 26:11) that the poor will always be with them - every culture will have poor people because of the nature of this world.
