Homelessness

“The measure of a society is found in how they treat their weakest and most helpless citizens.” – Jimmy Carter

When it comes to our homeless population, strong opinions abound on how to approach their plight. However, viewing these San Franciscans as “them” from the outset sets us on a problematic path. Unhoused individuals are as much a part of our community as those residing in mansions in The Presidio.

With over 7,700 homeless individuals in our city, there exist just as many unique reasons for their circumstances. This diversity underscores the need for a holistic approach to address the homeless crisis effectively.

Consider this: the city allocates $667.8 million annually for our homeless population, averaging $86,100 per person per year. This surpasses the per capita income of many San Franciscans. Despite this significant investment, we lack viable solutions.

This is not just about the money; it’s about the value we derive from it. We should expect more impactful outcomes for such substantial expenditures. Rather than just shelters, we should provide actual homes.

San Francisco’s struggle with homelessness persists because our efforts often tackle only the surface symptoms. A shelter, while offering respite from the streets, may not be where many homeless individuals prefer to be. A true home should be a place of comfort and security.

Beyond shelter, we must address the psychological toll of homelessness. Whether psychological issues led to homelessness or were a consequence of it, our current strategies often overlook this critical aspect. Merely providing housing without addressing underlying psychological trauma or facilitating reintegration into society falls short.

It’s time to think innovatively about affordable, livable housing that restores dignity, fosters community, and promotes well-being.

“A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats” – this aphorism John F. Kennedy referenced rings true today. If we can house our homeless population and support their return to work, our entire city and its economy will flourish, benefiting all San Franciscans.

My “Rising Tide Initiative” is a holistic approach integrating housing options with counseling, drug dependency resolution, education, and holistic support to address the full spectrum of needs for our homeless community. Together, we can build a brighter future for San Francisco.