One of the biggest problems for homeless vets is that people read a headline about homeless vets or his sign that he's holding, then be outraged, then say something about how we "need to pray for... ". Prayer is excellent, and everyone should do it. But what happens is the initial outrage you experience is supposed to spur you to action so as to resolve the uncomfortable outrage. But since the "pray for" sentiment is rallied around and feels good, most of the time that's the end of it. People have decided to offload any work or effort they may have to spend, to God.

Look, prayer is great. Use it myself. A lot. But I understand why a lot of people roll their eyes at the notion.