The community requires a
huge learning curve when it comes to homelessness and homeless services. When
an unhoused person becomes housed, they are no longer homeless. But
unfortunately the stereotype, discrimination and prejudice follows them. The
Eastside response to Alisos and quotes in the media prove that there is much
fear and ignorance when it comes to homelessness.
How can Permanent
Supportive Housing projects coexist with residential neighborhoods, when the
public believes people who have transitioned and recovered from homelessness
are criminals, insane, and carry some kind of plague?
I’m afraid that we are
going down an ugly, dark road with this issue. The lack of compassion and
understanding will only continue to impact our streets and public spaces in a
negative manner.