Score One For The Homeless

Every city has to figure out what to do with their homeless. Just asking people to dismantle tent cities and move on is not the answer. And they usually do not move too far since they do not have transport or the means to do so.

There have been many innovative suggestions but real action is not prevalent. So when Phoenix, Arizona decided to take matters in their own hands, I took note and I think their example is encouraging.

To start with, some expenditure is necessary by the city. They are already putting those funds into authorities who move the encampments, clean up crews and social services. So why not make an investment that used funds in an economic way and make each area needing help a project.

Phoenix took over in August of this year to provide cheap container homes that provide clean spaces and energy from solar panels to give air conditioning. There is also a common area for bathrooms and showering. Each room is 5 X8 and in a 40 foot container, they can house up to 20 people.

The containers form an X pattern and are provided by the architecture firm Steel & Spark. The X formation means there are 4 containers which has a potential of providing for 80 people.

Each project ensures the people who stay there comply with certain regulations regarding having regular employment and are served by social services who monitor safety and cooperation.

This strikes me as a humane way to encourage these folks and a great way to motivate those who just want a little help. But it is up to each community to care enough to provide these kinds of solutions.

Maybe this story will inspire others to do the same. One thing for sure, we do have to do something.