It doesn’t happen every time I’m out stumping for our faith-based nonprofit that operates an emergency shelter, food pantry and supportive housing apartments.

But occasionally, when I wrap up my presentation and take questions, there will come one about the worthiness of some of our guests to receive our services.

And oftentimes, the questions come veiled as innocent inquiries.

Such as … Do the people residing in our shelter work for their keep? What are the requirements to being in our shelter? Do any of the guests pay for their bed and meals with an outside job?

I’ve heard it politely framed in a myriad of different ways, but the intent of the question remains.

Because unfortunately, even in the more-than-polite Upper Midwest, many people hold tight to the notion that anyone who isn

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