More Heat than Arc Light

I don't give loose change to people who beg in the streets. My conscience used to bother me when I passed these allegedly homeless people, ignoring their appeals for help. So we decided to make a regular contribution to a charity that helps homeless people and to have a collecting box on the sideboard. In this way we know that the money goes to those who really need it.
Now, an organisation called Arc Light, that provides a hostel for homeless people, is looking for a new site in York. One of the preferred places is right behind our house. My neighbours have mounted a petition to protest about the plans. They fear it will bring a concentration of unsuitable people into the area, posing a threat to residents.
I cannot in all conscience sign it. In fact when they gathered for a local press photographer, I called the paper to put my view. A caring society should provide for homeless people. If we don't they will be sleeping in shop doorways, breaking into garden sheds and derelict buildings just to find shelter for the night. The result of not providing for them is worse than allowing the hostel to be built. Wherever it is built it will be near someone's home. I cannot be a NIMBY in this case.
I am still on good terms with my neighbours. In fact we have initiated considerable local debate on the issue, and whatever the outcome, it will be the result of due consideration. Unlike many local plans which go through without consultation largely because of public indifference.