To the editor:

I am writing in response to Monday’s report, “Silent Squalor, Part I.”

Some years ago on a Saturday night, a transient came to our door for directions to Canterbury House. He had come from out of state to apply for work at a local lumber yard. Someone had given him directions and a sketch showing the way to Canterbury for housing. When I tried to interpret this for him, I realized he was illiterate. I did not think he could find his way in the dark, so we drove there. A student at Canterbury House said they were closed for the summer. Seeing a lighted house next door, I knocked and asked if I could use the phone. I called the Salvation Army and explained the problem and was told bluntly they could not afford to put people in motels. No further assistance was offered.

The house we were in was being remodeled and had a working bathroom, and carpet on the floor. I asked the man doing the work if he had any housing suggestions. Without hesitation, he said the man was welcome to stay there for the night. I thanked him and the transient accepted his kind offer from Mr. Qandil.

I talked with JoAnn Qandil after the current article appeared. I believe that she has worked hard to accommodate people who are down on their luck, going beyond the extra mile. She has offered to let some renters work off their debt. She has let those who owe large sums continue to live there. Not many landlords in Lawrence would allow this situation.

I believe those who complain are taking advantage of a kind-hearted landlord who is doing her best to help others.

John L. Glinka,

Lawrence