I am writing to make some important corrections and clarifications of the Collegian article "Homelessness in Happy Valley?" about CHARM.

I began developing the organization a year ago. We have worked hard to become knowledgeable of the problem we are trying to help solve and do not wish to be associated with any false statements.

Firstly, I would like to emphasize something not mentioned in the article. We are in no way affiliated with any religion. The homeless problem crosses all boundaries. The (phrase) "rescue mission" is simply a term for a homeless shelter.

Secondly, 30 percent of the homeless population are families with children, 43 percent of these children do not receive education. I hope I do not live to see the day when 43 percent of homeless are children, as printed in the Collegian.

Thirdly, there are 16,000 people in Centre County who live below the poverty level. But, across the country, there are 32 million of these people, not just 3 million.

Lastly, we are an organization that likes to focus on the here and now, and most importantly, on the feasible. We are going to help Centre House with renovations and we hope to get, at the most, a portion of the basement to convert into a bedroom/babysitting room. It will have an atmosphere fit for small children, but we will certainly not claim it to be a daycare facility.

CHARM is a growing organization optimistic about the future of the underprivileged and what we can do to help. Anyone interested is always welcome. All we ask for is some dedication and ambition. For, as one of our new members said, "you won't only be sitting around and talking."