To the editor:

There is so much conflict in our world today, it is easy to overlook what is happening in our own back yard. Two stories in the Feb. 17 edition of the Journal-World caught my eye; “Donors” and “City loses grant money …” were both on the front page of the Lawrence and State section.

I understand the financial partnership the city of Lawrence has with Kansas University. However, just how important is “feathering the flock” in comparison to providing basic human needs for our fellow citizens? More than $150,000 has generously been given to help KU outfit its band. Meanwhile, the Community Drop-In Center reports having trouble paying for milk to be served with breakfast to the hungry, homeless and cold.

Hopefully, the sad irony of this will move some of the more fortunate souls in our town to give at least a portion of their intended KU donation to the drop-in center. The personal knowledge that you have helped feed and shelter someone much less fortunate than yourself will warm your heart, and theirs long after the feathers of the flock have molted.

Doris Stine,

Lawrence