One time on a mild winter's day, I talked to a random homeless lady by the local parish. We talked a bit and I find out she was actually against giving people free housing, saying that although it should be more affordable, people who get stuff for free will make a mess out of it. While there is some sense in that argument, with the world we live in, that kind of thinking ain't going to get her a place to live she can afford. I gave her $10 and my gloves and wished her well.

We have so many empty houses, empty businsses, land and things. If people need mental health help, recovery from drugs, a place to live and basic sustenance get them it. Saying who's going to profit, what if someone commits fraud etc., wastes time and resources away from trying to solve the problems themselves. Get insurance to take on those risks, the bean counters love that stuff.

[–] pingveno@lemmy.ml 2 points 2 years ago* (last edited 2 years ago)

I keep hearing how valuable a simple locking door is. Having nothing but a tent means there's the constant stress that anything you don't have literally strapped to your body can be taken at any time. A locking door means being able to leave possessions at home and reasonably expect they will be there when you come back.

[–] pingveno@lemmy.ml 4 points 2 years ago* (last edited 2 years ago)

Our local newspaper did a great piece on some of the successes of a "safe rest" program that the City of Portland has been working on. The article isn't shy that the central example in the story has struggled with Xanax addiction, but is improving with help. It also discusses another safe rest area purposefully placed next to a methadone clinic. The local businesses were maybe not so happy, but what of it? Better some well organized tiny home villages than the mess of ugly tents in our parks and on our sidewalks.

[–] CannotSleep420@lemmygrad.ml 4 points 2 years ago

Now now, we can't have them getting addicted to shelter too /j

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