Homelessness: Meet basic needs outside shelters

Re: “Tiny house village for homeless to open,” (TNT, 7/23).

First, I am in support of this expansion. Adding capacity to the shelter system is more vital than ever as homelessness has increased over 27% in the last year.

But our community needs to create shelter options that have a smaller price tag. There is no way for the city and its community partners to support everyone experiencing homelessness here at that cost.

What happens to those who are forgotten and left to survive unsheltered? How will they meet basic needs, especially as the pandemic and shutdowns continue?

Many people are forced to live outside and in vehicles. How is the city making sure they have access to a bathroom, food, drinking water and a safe place to rest?

The city should have a plan to not only increase shelter, but also a basic plan to ensure all residents, especially our most vulnerable, can meet these basic needs.

This story was originally published July 29, 2020 at 8:15 AM with the headline "Homelessness: Meet basic needs outside shelters."