A Magnanimous Gesture

Contrary to what some have speculated, cannabis legalization has not contributed to an increase in homelessness. Back when recreational cannabis first began, skeptics believed that legalization would have a negative impact. They predicted that homeless people across the state, and the country would invade regions with legal cannabis sales. But in reality, if cannabis has done anything, it has created a connection of love across almost every demographic. The homelessness population has not affected the industry negatively, and some cannabis businesses recognize that their efforts could be a helpful solution to help improve the lives of people who are homeless.

“We love to help our community. It keeps us going, and it feels good to give back. We never know what another person is going through or what has put them in [that] situation.”

The Evidence is Clear

Dr. Donald Burnes, executive director and founder of Burnes Center on Poverty and Homelessness in Denver, Colorado at the University of Denver, agrees that there is a misguided impression on the correlation between cannabis and homelessness. Through his research, data shows that at least in the state of Colorado, there is no evidence that people “flocked to the state” and have become homeless. Burnes also noted that like many other avenues of revenue that flow to other statewide funds, even more tax money from legal cannabis sales should be put toward improving the lives of those who are currently homeless. “Clearly, the arena of extreme poverty and homelessness is competing with other important local issues, such as education, transportation, infrastructure, climate change, etc., and we are interested in maximizing the flow of dollars to address the issue with which we are engaged,” he said.

Through cannabis tax revenue, states like Colorado are taking action in developing resources for their communities. On May 26, 2017, Gov. John Hickenlooper signed the SB-17-254 “2017-18 Long Appropriations Bill” into law which aims to “provide permanent supportive housing and rapid re-housing assistance for individuals with behavioral health needs, and for individuals experiencing or at-risk of homelessness.” In California, Attorney Marc Wasserman from Pot Brothers at Law, one of California’s leading medical cannabis law firms, provides pro bono criminal defense cases if a homeless person is charged with a crime. Wasserman believes that “ending cannabis prohibition will help the homeless,” and that the cannabis community will be a strong force for change through their charitable actions. It’s no longer just about business, but about caring for people in need.

Taking a Stand

The cannabis community has recognized a need to take further action in contributing its efforts in highlighting the benefits cannabis has for all, as many companies are giving back to their communities. With the holiday season in full swing, this time of year is all about giving thanks and giving back. From monetary donations to product and customer involvement, these are just a few businesses that go above and beyond to change or rebuild the lives of individuals, families and animals.

For instance, Kaya Cannabis is on a constant mission to improve healthy, happy and safe environments throughout the community. Through the company’s efforts, Kaya Cannabis claims to be the first company in the industry through its Grow it Forward projects, to donate a percentage every month for every purchase to four local organizations that are improving individuals lives in Colorado. CEO Amanda Gonzalez believes that her company is one of many to set out to assist the homeless population. “We hope that our company can help be part of the work to end homelessness in Denver and that our contributions continue to make Colorado a more vibrant place to live, work and play, in general,” she said.

California’s Potters Cannabis Co. and Golden State Greens Point Loma partnered this November, as they helped assemble lunch bag meals and distributed them to those in need throughout San Diego while teaming up with #Hashtag Lunchbag, a humanity service movement dedicated to empowering and inspiring humanity to reap the benefits of giving through the use of social media. “Some people that we handed a lunch to, hadn’t eaten in five days or more,” said Heidi Rising, general manager and event coordinator for Golden State Greens Point Loma. “We love to help our community. It keeps us going, and it feels good to give back. We never know what another person is going through or what has put them in [that] situation. Love does not cost anything, and we all have a little extra to share, so go share it.”

One of Organa Brands’ core values is being a strong representative and leader in the local community. From hosting charity golf tournaments, volunteering time, helping victims affected by Hurricanes Maria and Irma, to local coat and food drives, the company feeds and clothes hundreds of people. Chris Driessen, president of Organa Brands U.S, spoke about how his company is making waves in the community’s representation of altruism. “We are extremely proud of the success we’ve had as a company—but with success, comes huge responsibilities. We feel a real onus to serve the communities in which we operate in a meaningful and positive way. Things like the coat drive and partnerships with organizations like Grow For Vets help establish the cannabis industry as an asset to the areas in which we operate.”

Not only does the cannabis industry give support to those who are homeless, but it supports humanity and dignity overall. On its own, cannabis creates unity, love, relationships and connections. Cannabis is the gift that keeps on giving, and it will continue to do so as long as members of the community care.