The Cost of a Crisis: A look at Phoenix's struggle with homelessness after the covid pandemic

[@radolfkalis4041]

Just putting homeless into housing will not solve the problem, it has been done in other cities, and all you get is homeless camps in buildings. People need jobs, they need detox, health care, physical and mental. If you do not have a steady income, everything else crumbles. It is a point of self esteem(for most people) to be able to support themselves.

[@hotdog7346]

Exactly. The addicts will just shoot up in free housing

[@FatelHits]

Problem is most don’t want the help. They rather stay put. So we must ask ourselves, is it humanitarian to force them to detox and go through psychiatric evaluation?

[@radolfkalis4041]

@@FatelHits if someone does not want help, you cannot force them. I have no easy solution.

[@ursulasmith6402]

Universal health care, stopping outsourcing and stopping greed , this is the way!

[@QueenBees456]

In other words we all need to live with the dignity.

[@exoressdelivers70]

I volunteer at a homeless shelter. We have empty beds because even though there's a lot of homeless they don't want to follow the rules of the shelter. We have a curfew. You cannot drink alcohol there. You cannot use drugs there. You cannot bring someone in of the opposite sex to sleep in your same room unless you are married to that person. The homeless do not want to accept these rules. They say they'd rather have their freedom on the streets.

[@v2plus4]

After doing some minor food bank volunteering, I have lost all compassion for the homeless and even moved out to an area that does not have homelessness. They drag each other and you to a very unhealthy place.

[@kellyfontes7757]

💯 thanks for speaking out the truth

[@robertbrown892]

most yes...BUT NOT ALL....its a shame...that you are pooling them all into one group/category....i am homeless...i'm in florida...i would love a chance at a bed...unfortunately, here...they have over 100 people in one room...YOU PEOPLE try and get sleep in a room like that....this is all to unreal

[@artsmith103]

Homelessness is a choice including the drugs.

[@robertbrown892]

@@artsmith103 make that choice dude...and see where it gets you

[@nwmafia1215]

Let’s be real here. The actual reason for homelessness is the government on a federal and local level allowing corporations and real estate business owners to put profits before people. When you have to work more than one job to pay your rent or mortgage especially when the prices on things go up but wages don’t, there is no other outcome.

[@xtrey19x]

Those who have the right skills are earning more than enough money and that’s why rent prices are going up. Only those without in demand skills have to “work more than one job” to pay rent/mortgage. NYC rents prices are at record highs because the people with the in demand skills are moving their and driving up demand while supply dwindles. You either learn a skill or the world leaves you behind, it’s unfortunate for some, but that’s how the world works.

[@bluechex7881]

The actual reason for homelessness is the government, the open borders, and the globalist bankers who corntol both of those.

[@bobbybooker2123]

@@xtrey19x The world has to work for everybody.

[@xtrey19x]

@@bobbybooker2123 For that to happen then it would mean that the producers would have to be okay with picking up the slack for the freeloaders. We cannot have a honest conversation about these topics until people like yourself are willing to admit that there are able bodied people in our society who have no intentions contributing. They want to live free and have a good time, but the reality is work needs to be done and the people doing the work are not happy with the idea that some have to make sacrifices while others get to party.

[@bobbybooker2123]

@@xtrey19x Being homeless is no party. You neglect 95% of the problem which is world wide.

[@dootdoot8711]

I moved to Phoenix from Detroit 6 months ago, never in my life have I ever seen as many homeless in Detroit as I see here in phoenix. it's wild

[@Rubin82]

Another out-of-stater 🙄

[@frederickmuhlbauer9477]

Bad weather discouages.homelessness.

[@pdkrace]

Then go back

[@dootdoot8711]

@@pdkrace no need to be a ch0de mark

[@Kobe8DaGreat24]

Bro was it worth leaving Detroit tho fam? I'm thinking about temporarily leaving Colorado for Phoenix to stack up bread.

[@AKAAAK]

I love how the government says they got all kinds of funding coming in, yet nothing getting done because of excuses, excuses, excuses, blah, blah, blah. But I'm sorry, it's not only PHX with this problem. LA alone has 8× as many homeless and still nothing done. You better nip this in the bud PHX while your homeless population is still relatively low or you'll be looking like downtown LA in the future.

[@stevestreet2825]

True facts.

[@sngray11]

It used to be just DTLA, now the homeless population is all over the city. And I was thinking the same thing, if Phoenix doesn’t put systems in place, they will end up just like L.A.

[@jamied8678]

I wish you'd stop using abbreviations so people can understand what you're saying but your entire country is about to go down. you have been raping the world for long so Americans can be the only people on the planet living the life Styles they do and now the Chinese have sucker punched you into taking all your money and it's all coming to an and you're going to be a third world country with in 15 years . As one of your comedian said you have to be asleep to believe in the American dream

[@AKAAAK]

@@jamied8678 So basically you're the only one who doesn't know LA is abbreviated for Los Angeles??? What rock did you crawl out from. I used 3 abbreviation and 2 were a repeat. Have you ever heard of Google? Try typing LA or even PHX and see what pops up.....I guarantee Los Angeles will be top of the list. Stop being so butt hurt about 2 abbreviations and as far as the rest of.your comment......Blah, blah, blah. You only wish our American Dream was a wet dream for you. Cry on someone elses shoulders.

[@CaseyLouis]

Arresting them and putting them into labor camps will shock the system.

[@desertmerchant248]

This is social engineering decades in the making. By the elite.

[@lando5188]

Elites can’t control someone decisions, work ethic , or doing drugs. All one’s decision ultimately to get off the streets.

[@usaisnojoke]

Amen

[@number1enemyoftheuseless985]

And the kids get fed too Catholic church/freemasonry/Hollywood sacrifice for power.

[@caridadrevilla2439]

For sure. They are terminating people slowly.

[@jogmas12]

And republicans

[@Just4AZ1]

I have lived near the Metro Center in west Phoenix for over 30 years. I have never seen the problem so out of control. Katie Hobbs, the Mayor, and the city council has done nothing to improve the situation.

[@sandyrose2398]

Politicians are busy spending our money for non-essentials like going green, climate change (how are they doing that?), getting rid of gas-driven autos and replacing with electric vehicles (majority of people prefer gas) - notice the pattern??? Politicians HATE real people - they don't relate. They're lives are what counts - and where's all the money going to solve the homeless problems - that they created? Believe me - they never miss their paychecks, buying mansions and beach homes, taking vacations with our tax money, getting FREE medical/healthcare/dental - and FREE vehicles!!!! And - their friends and families are on the payroll as well.

[@jogmas12]

Are they republicans?

[@Just4AZ1]

@@jogmas12 Nope, Democrats but I am not sure if either party will do anything about it.

[@danieldaniels7571]

I sold my house at 35th & Sweetwater and left that area 22 years ago. Mostly just a bunch of vacant commercial property, check cashing places, liquor stores and junkies there now.

[@barajoon668]

I understand your frustration. I would like to point out Doug Ducey allocates how funds will be used. People need to be cautious when voting for business owners, they have an agenda... Line their & their buddies pockets first.

[@CaseyLouis]

The city leaders of Phoenix have failed on the issue of homelessness.

[@crosstolerance]

@Ziplokk Finally someone that understands the system. People are so quick to blame the easier target and forget the complexity of the issue at hand. City planners and elective officials are people like us. I honestly don't have a good solution for the homeless population, but complaining about it isn't going to get us anywhere.

[@kek3908]

democrats are known for failure, in their world is consider a success, fail upward.

[@max420thc]

Vote blue will get you incompetence every single time.

[@max420thc]

You lefties can never think outside the box. The solution is simple. Pick out a rich liberal area. Get inexpensive bus or plane tickets and send them all there along with the illegal immigrants. Then turn on the news and listen to the virtue signaling hypocrite run their mouth after words. Problem solved , I am pretty sure phonic is a liberal 💩 hole. So just leave them there until the completely destroy that city first them move them to another city

[@max420thc]

No. They are not people just like us. They might be like you but are not like me at all. In my company we promote talent. In liberal areas they promote corruption

[@jimechols4347]

I'm experiencing homelessness and no it wasn't drugs or vices. I ran out of money while looking for a job because employers didn't want to hire me because I've been unemployed too long. So thanks for helping me out employers. Rapid rehousing in Texas is a joke. The agency just gives you the runaround and says you need to meet certain criteria like having a job first. Like some employer is going to hire me right off the street with no way to get clean clothes. Thanks rapid rehousing......smh

[@abdonramirez7178]

I think you are looking for a job in the wrong place, get in touch with any trucking company they will hire you plus you can live in the truck, go to any truck stop and explain to truckers your situation, they will give you a free shower and you can wash your clothes, good luck!!

[@fu2201]

You are full of it brother. I've been homeless and employed.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Go to church and offered to trim shrubs and other things for free. They might give you some money plus food and other people might help you out if you show a willingness to work. I know somebody at church offered serval homeless people some money if they would trim shrubs and they said they would but when the one in charge came back they had already gone.

[@joebloggs4362]

I'm homeless and use public laundromat to wash clothes $6 per wash and $4 to dry, so a neat $10 for the week. It's a worthwhile investment to make a grand while working. I use truck stops for showers (no questions asked) and buy food when and where I need it. It's not that bad, think around the problem to build resourcefulness and resilience.

[@raymondcaylor6292]

I have zero advice for you because I don't know your age, education, health, skills, work history, criminal history and so much more information I'd need for evaluation. So, I'll only say that family is the greatest resource for successful navigation during turbulence in your personal life. If those bridges are burnt or nonexistent you really are in trouble . I wish you well.

[@keithstewart8613]

Its hard enough being homeless. But being homeless under triple digit temperatures is unfathomable. I can't even imagine living homeless under those conditions. I pray some how their basic needs are met in Jesus name!!!

[@ipenguin3918]

Bring one home with you.

[@MrProzacmilkshake]

cold probably worse

[@DemureDarlings]

I just came back from there and almost passed out! It literally feels like HELL 🔥🥵☀️ I don’t know how they survive 😩🥲

[@KB-nt7eg]

'i pray some how that.' That's what praying gets you. Stupidity. You somehow, in some unthinkable way to you, think they will magically fix homelessness. Jesus. That's called being blind.

[@theharvest5366]

At lot of them are Alcoholics and, Drug addicts. You have to be Careful. These people will cut ur throat to get drugs. It's Sad for those homeless, that aren't drug Addicts and, is having a hard time...with all the Rising Cost of Living.

[@craigsawyer6453]

It seems to me that if a city gets federal funds they should be obligated to provide a camping park for homeless and travelers. There should be a bathroom with a shower and LOTS of garbage cans that get emptied often. During the depression families and strangers provided for others, many travelers that went looking for work... Are we loosing our "humanity"?

[@johngoodspeed3585]

No way. Abolish the minimum way and allow tax breaks for landlords.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Did you hear why they can’t have the bathrooms open, since the bathrooms were vandalized by the homeless.

[@CaseyLouis]

Only if people make an effort to get clean.

[@donedeal8385]

​@@CaseyLouis gatekeeping shows you don't want to actually help, you just want to be able to blame.

[@xlerosx]

Just too many democrats.

[@ItsFinished]

Thank you for publishing this story. I worked for 7 years a an outreach liason for Colorado Coalition for the homeless and know that it is strictly a nombers game. If I talk to 1000 people, 100 are interested in getting real help (a hand up, not a hand out). 10 actually take the next step and answer questions for intake evaluation, and only 1 gets on the van to go to rehab. Every single person I delt with was a chronic alcoholic or drug user and most had ranging mental issues. The leaders in Phoenix are inept and clueless in being able to comprehend what to do and the kid glove approach will not work. Supposedly the city spent upwards of $50 million to combat this but there isn't any corresponding evidence they did anything. where are the records/ receipts for their efforts? FYI, The gentleman you interviewed from the city should be relieved from his position as he did nothing but patronize you make excuses the whole time. Have you seen the effective approach that Rhode Island took? Phx, SF, LA. Seattle, etc. could learn something from their program. Thanks again!

[@bellaqdancestudio]

Thank you for sharing this information. I'll look into the Rhode Island approach to help with this crisis

[@ninja.saywhat]

there's homeless people in rhode island? i mean like on the same level as sf, la, and seattle? does rhode island have comparable population to washington let alone california? yeah no

[@mf--]

@@ninja.saywhat population density.

[@proggravezilla4175]

DanH, another dopey utopian leftwinger social(ist)-worker do-gooder for the helpless.

[@ninersnation3298]

How the heck do you help laziness?? drugs and addictions are hard issues to help by themselves. You look back at the USA. Americans have been living so easy. Back in the 60s or something, the wives stayed home as homemakers and were perfectly fine with 1 income. bring back manufacturing jobs from China and Mexico. Jumpstart USA manufacture jobs, so these bums could have a job and not live on the streets.

[@freenchrist2935]

That figure of 5,000 homeless, is definitely wrong! There is easily at least 20,000 homeless people in Phoenix alone. More than 10,000 around the Cass area..

[@NAT-turners-Revenge]

😯

[@nairsheasterling9457]

Pretty sure you have no clue what 10,000 people look like. At MOST, there's 3,000 people at CASS area. I know because I'm in the shelter. That is 800 beds max.

[@freenchrist2935]

@@nairsheasterling9457 No, sweety! You don't KNOW, what 10,000 looks like! If you count all the homeless, that are in the shelters, along with the crew up and down the streets, it's WAY more than even 3,000! It might not be exactly 10,000 but I would say, more close, to 10, than 3 thousand. Also the new shelter for the elderly. It's getting to be like Los Angeles, and it warrants an emergency State intervention before it gets like Los Angela's, because it's REAL bad. Yes, they are spread out all the way down central, all the way to the other agencies. I drove Uber sweety and I have seen it first hand. I don't gamble, nor do I bet, but I would surely bet you, I'm more close than you are .

[@nairsheasterling9457]

@@freenchrist2935 I'll take that bet because I live there.

[@carlmorgan8452]

Oh well

[@jtjtrs8806]

MY SUGGESTION, some of these people can be given a chance to get on their feet , a Job and transportation with a place to stay , BUT LETS BE HONEST ALOT OF THESE PEOPLE NEED TO BE IN A "" MENTAL INSTITUTION !!!!! no matter what you do to help a mentally ill person they will not get better if they don't get mental help !! They need to be in a mental INSTITUTION !!!!!!

[@ELECTRICEYEMEDIA]

Unfortunately, it's more serious than that. Most of these people are strung out on drugs and alcohol and every time someone gives them cash, temporary shelter, food or clothing it enables them to remain stuck in addiction. It's like giving aspirin to a cancer patient and hoping the cancer will subside. Or better yet, a band-aid on a severed head.

[@texasrefugee7888]

Republicans and especially Reagan and Bush shut down most of the psych hospitals because corporations don't want to pay for mental health care. So mentally ill people who used to get care are put out on the streets or go to prison.

[@ml-jt6eg]

To bad real mental institutions were shut down due to outside people claiming unsafe and inhumane.

[@montreal63]

I was lucky. I got a cot and meals at a St Vincent De Paul after bouncing around places and being homeless in Tempe. Was able to receive private help from a friend and moved to YellowSprings Ohio and now have a apt and slowly working. Scott Hall is a good man chatted with him in brief and thanked him for the chance to stay at 28th st and Washington shelter. I hope more shelters and more active involvement between public and private can do more then kick the can down the street and work in conjunction with one another for this is a much bigger pandemic than COVID is now.

[@montreal63]

I waited 16months for housing and nothing

[@gavindupuy9881]

Congrats 👍🏽

[@KC-dr3cg]

So smart to move I have been telling people for months there are housing choices in small towns in other areas around the United States like in Rhode Island Minnesota recently a one bedroom one bathroom house sold for $14,900 and Nevada Missouri a one bedroom one bathroom sold for $15,000 If people are getting Social Security you don't have to earn very much to qualify for a loan in a small town In some small towns and apartment is only $400 a month If you have to earn three times the rent ,many people on Social Security get at least $1,200 a month.

[@sherryhartin2055]

@@KC-dr3cg , try only $861 a month SS. Can barely pay for "low income housing" now.

[@calamity0.o]

My grandfather, Dick Powell, was on the board for St. Vincent De Paul a couple decades ago. Dad drove a donation truck for a few years back then. Good organization, honored gramps when he retired.

[@BronxBombers_726]

Many people who are homeless are not on drugs, alcoholic or mentally ill. I know because I was there. The City wants you to go to agencies with no way to get there. Some have said these folks need to get a job well even with a job with the rents steadily growing it’s difficult to find a decent place that’s affordable. It’s easy to make comments when your not going through this drama. The City doesn’t give a rats a$$. They just don’t..

[@wearebornlikestars7706]

might depend on the city or state. In CA the down on their luck crowd are a TINY percent. It is difficult what you went through. Government is not there to help, we must rely on family, community and ourselves

[@BronxBombers_726]

@@wearebornlikestars7706 Yea that is an option. My situation I had no family or friends to help. I moved from Portland. I speak only of my experience not my opinion. The City of Phoenix has a problem. They need to change their tactics. If not this will get worse..

[@oldgeezer8038]

Although what you say is true, the reality is the MAJORITY are drug addicts.

[@danieldaniels7571]

I live by Perry Park. These people are almost all fentanyl junkies

[@Polemic-2525]

Phoenix has always had a homeless problem since 1990 . My solution was to stay away from other homeless people and stay away from the shelters. Also I didn’t let anyone in mainstream society know I was homeless. Get a job. No one is really going to help you. I wouldn’t expect it. The shelters only care about numbers for federal funds. They will make it difficult for people to really succeed.

[@patriciabonitz5758]

It has everything to do with the high cost of living created by greedy governments. Taxing the people does not help the homeless but creates more homelessness. It's disgusting that government chose to ignore the growing problem.

[@Carnivorous-Vegan]

Completely agree, but our 'governments' have gotten to the point they're just following orders. And the real powers in charge, use governments as puppets to create these conditions.

[@puppylove3781]

Greedy "goverments"? You mean J E W S right? What else could it be that you mean? LOL

[@jmfc2487]

Make helping the homeless and street people profitable and the rich will be all over it.

[@ELECTRICEYEMEDIA]

No they won't. They make more off the drugs they have invested in that are imported and sold to these same homeless people.

[@karengiorella2690]

There is money in keeping people homeless. All these programs get funding from grants and private donations. They are doing what they can. And some programs, not so much. It starts with safe affordable housing. A base to manage an unmanaged life. There is help out there. I'm just not sure there's enough for affordable housing. It's a sad and complicated situation for everyone.

[@johngoodspeed3585]

@@karengiorella2690 "affordable housing" how about we abolish building codes? Give landlords more latitude and let them rent tax free.

[@qjtvaddict]

Gotta sell them on socialism first

[@lisastinyvanbigliving5261]

@@johngoodspeed3585 Ohhh so more slum lords, more affordable housing? I think u r onto something here!😒

[@rebeccaamans5237]

Good non biased reporting. It shouldn’t be shocking to learn the relief money isn’t going where it’s supposed to. Homelessness is a racket for politicians.

[@jamied8678]

I think you've been reading too many conspiracy theories the mainstream media is evil and so on . You try and budget with the small amount of money they have and see how far you get

[@CaseyLouis]

What’s not a racket is someone with a drug or alcohol problem and not seeking help in getting sober.

[@lisastinyvanbigliving5261]

@@CaseyLouis So tell me, how much does it cost for someone to go into a drug treatment program? How long will a state run treatment center keep someone with mental illness and or an addiction? You keep implying that its up to the mentally ill/addict that is homeless and jobless to seek theyre own care. How many times does the average cigarett smoker try to quit before and if it ever happens? Have you or someone you loved ever been sick, addicted, or mentally ill and sought help? By all your comments through this whole feed, i highly doubt it! Get a clue, or educate yourself a lil more.🙈

[@cclev1967]

Think it's bad now? Give it another 6 months.

[@ursulasmith6402]

Biden land

[@MrJaycob310]

Thanks to Do nothing republicans

[@cclev1967]

@@MrJaycob310 thanks to your pedophile traitorous president.

[@puppylove3781]

@@MrJaycob310 If I had a sea of democrats and bought their IQ points, I'd almost have a pop for the machine

[@TodayJunior-p8b]

how about another 6?

[@scottl.6932]

Homeless have become more brazen and bold in the N Phx area. Break-ins, theft at stores, and neighborhood blight is becoming greater by the day. I'm empathetic when someone is homeless due to job loss, but majority of homeless have mental issues and/or addiction. When the homeless start camping out and blighting an area, stealing at stores, and break-ins to private homes/cars, my empathy ends as you are now just a criminal to me. Each state needs to start rebuilding mental institutions where the homeless can be housed, get the mental/addiction help they need. Living on the streets within town/city limits should not be allowed.

[@mercedese5507]

By design it is going to get EXTREMELY worse. Inflation will force those who this to lose everything soon. By 2030 YOU will own NOTHING and be happy!

[@GeminiTwinsofLove]

Yeah true then you don't have to be disgusted by people struggling with mental health and/or addiction. Just warehouse them right? Your comment is all about YOU!!!

[@mercedese5507]

@@GeminiTwinsofLove Wow. So if you are mentally ill, are you saying its ok to victimize others because your genetic cesspool?

[@sandraalegria3439]

I see people deteriorate when they don't have housing. If they are thrown to the concrete they will develop mental illness. If the don't have access to daily living in a structure ,the will camp on people's front yard. 😒

[@fmburner]

In my old Illinois city there was a homeless spike when they closed the mental institution. That didn’t help a lot for sure as far as phoenix and other places I go I see a lot of people that are addicts and mentally those are the obvious ones you see then there are those that are more stealth about it still working their jobs that try to be invisible about it. Those numbers have went up too. So it’s more than people think I just don’t know an acceptable way to fix it. Institutions may be a start.

[@dianacarter_art]

I used to hang out with my friends at Perry Park and sometimes we would have family get togethers there. This is really scary. These people need help.

[@firstlast8258]

Some don’t want help they want cash to continue using drugs and alcohol

[@dianacarter_art]

I know. It's something that a lot of places are having trouble with. I wish I knew what to do.

[@max420thc]

Stop voting democrat is the biggest help you can give them.

[@user-vf6ru8gm9p]

The only ones that can help these people are themselves.

[@ag7279]

My brother in law is homeless by choice, I try to bring him home and help him out but he refuses. He rather be out in the streets using drugs. Very sad to see him throw his life away.

[@kek3908]

Let him figure it out or die, Darwinism, not everyone is meant to win in the game of life.

[@charlesphilhower1452]

There are many out there. Perhaps drug addiction should be treated the same as mental illness because just like someone that is mentally a drug addict renders themselves unable to care for themselves. If they were housed in a structured facility where there no obtain to leave and get the drugs the prognosis of beating the addiction is greatly enhanced. These people represent a danger to the community justifying such a commitment. Like what you said there are a lot out their that refuse to take advantage of treatment because they do not want to follow the rules and are more concerned about feeding their addiction.

[@ot8479]

So now your experience has solved the mystery of homelessness!?? I HAVE WORKED IN THE SECTOR AND IT HAS TRANSFORMED MY LIFE FOREVER. ADDICTION AND HOMELESSNESS ARE CLOSELY RELATED BUT YOU CANNOT PUT EVERYONE INSIDE THE BOX OF YOUR OWN EXPERIENCE.

[@charlesphilhower1452]

@UCEXWD6TiHRTJhgfdtSUFcpw And simply providing physical housing is not solving the problems of an addict, it is just bringing the problem indoors we’re the addict can kill themselves in private instead of on the street.

[@ot8479]

@@charlesphilhower1452 THAT'S A WHOLE LOT OF BULL CRAP COMING FROM A PRIVILEGED COMPLETELY CLUELESS AND INEXPERIENCED PERSON.

[@Melsincatuation]

Another issue everyone is ignoring...many homeless are getting very comfortable and eventually there will be a lot of people who WANT to be on the street cause they feel like they have a family there, if you need someone to talk to in the middle of the night someone is ALWAYS awake. Groups will form that will support each other and protect each other. No one feels lonely. Channel 12 U all should take a look at skid row in LA right now!! There are different groups on each block. They will fight each other. I c guess I'm trying to say if this continues much longer people will not want to get off the street!! Like on skid row, the city has given people hotel rooms , apartments, yet they leave and come back to the street, they say its their home now

[@MR..181]

Do not much like the neighborhood!

[@stevemazz3121]

Build jail cell type buildings...small with a bed. Sadly for some reason these folks fail to care for bathrooms properly. They forget if you abuse it you loose it. Solid concrete buildings, floors, walls, beds so you can clean the rooms with a high powered hose. They would be dry, heat could be provided, some with bathrooms, or sani cans... Sad part homeless have little pride left and don't take care of the things you try to help them with. I drove delivery/pick up box truck for Food First in Pierce County while attending Vocational School. It was amazing to see how thankless people were. Complaining about the different FREE FOOD they were given.

[@Deathtofrogleghorn]

Adding insult to injury, Arizona never has been friendly to the poor. This is the same state, who-about 10-15 years ago did away with its food stamp and unemployment benefits program and when the recession hit, they didn’t have safety nets in place to help their people. They took those funds and used them elsewhere. A state this crazy, what makes you think they’re going to use emergency COVID funds for homeless wisely?

[@jmccoomber1659]

Not sure where your info is coming from, AZ has always offered SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program = food stamps) and still does. Its state medicaid program provides health care for low-income people, also. Household incomes of most people in Arizona are very low except in Maricopa and Pima counties (Phoenix and Tucson) and some high-income enclaves like Sedona and Prescott. Arizona has always been one of the most affordable states to live in in the Southwest, if the state was unfriendly to low-income people it would be empty. Traditionally pay has been a lot lower than in neighboring California, but so is rent, utilities, food and gas. Despite rents going up, it's still much cheaper to live in AZ (outside the metro areas) than anywhere in CA or NV. One of the reasons AZ is a homeless magnet is that in most places it's possible to sleep outside year-round without freezing to death in the winter. Summers can be ridiculously hot so day shelters, libraries, even malls, stores and other businesses offer a respite during the hottest hours and homeless people then sleep outside at night. It would be great if the state could find a way to use that giant chunk of money it received from the federal government to create affordable housing but it's probably not possible in the metro areas because property is too expensive. AZ should use some of those funds to build housing in smaller communities where it can purchase property more affordably. Homelessness is an issue in smaller cities, too, and affordable housing could really help people in Kingman, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu City, Yuma, and all the communities in western AZ.

[@johnjordan8022]

SNAP/EBT is a Government sponsored program that's available in every single State, by Law ! No State can withdraw from this program. The idea is to combat hunger in the U.S.

[@bidencrimefamilymottof-cky953]

Nope. Az has always had food stamps and unemployment benefits to those who qualify.

[@kek3908]

Leave then. CYA

[@nategwinn9058]

You obviously know nothing about AZ and didn’t bother to actually do any research. So piss off.

[@chelseagreenberg6234]

A big problem is AZ is a petty crimes state. Instead of incarceration, people with substance abuse disorder need counseling and rehab. Unfortunately, those resources in our state are underfunded to the point of being essentially rendered non-existent. The problem with Phoenix is partly that it's home to Lower Buckeye county jail. There's a cycle of drug users being picked up, serving short sentences, and then turned back out again without resources. We need prison reform. We need actual services for addiction beyond AA. Here's hoping we can come together as a community

[@crazydayz1080]

BS! These drug addicts choose to get high. Don't use my taxes to pay for their rehab.

[@mawi1172]

Substance abuse is a personal choice and not a 'disorder'. That's how left wing, Democrats talk. Just like "we need to fix them". Uhm no, only THEY can fix them. You Snowflakes have our country just broken to pieces.

[@mawi1172]

Do you have any idea how many times the public had come together, as you so naively put it, 😂😂😂, like you think you're the only one to ever come up with that 'solution'! 😂😂😂. The homeless problem has a few that really did fall thru the cracks but not mostly. Mostly, its addicts that WON'T WORK. And the problem is because the government has given our land away to our war time opponents. And the government has allowed foreign investment to run our home prices into the millions, when they should still be in the hundreds thousands category. Get the land and homes held by all the foreign investors in the USA and take it back. Just like Mexico does. They'll sell you a home. But if any Mexican citizen comes and wants it, you better have the muscle to hold onto it. Because they'll just TAKE IT from you and throw you out. If they feel like it. And the law? There is no law against them doing that to you. THAT'S MEXICO. We need to be more like Mexico.

[@mawi1172]

Typical welfare monger always blaming funding and government for ppl who won't control their addictions. 🙄🙄🙄. Snowflake, why don't you just LOVE freedom like you should? Stop trying to be a socialist!

[@puppylove3781]

We need J-E-W reform! That will fix 98% of our problems including race hustlers. Can I get on ov vey?

[@MrPearlsareforever]

We need to try and tackle our internal problems such as this drug and alcohol abuse, our southern border crisis and quit throwing money away at these foreign countries' problems we can't afford it we don't own the world.

[@crazydayz1080]

Better yet..get rid of the federal government! We don't need them...they need us!

[@CaseyLouis]

Yes.

[@deenanthekemoni5567]

Amount we sent to Ukraine- $56 Billion+ Amount we'd send to Ukraine if there _wasn't_ any money to skim off the top for corrupt Political figures: $0.

[@coffeecup3177]

Would there be any way the City of Phoenix could bus them to NYC? Mayor Adams and the citizens of New York have welcomed the new immigrants with free housing, medical, dental, prescription drugs, food. and free college. I know they are a extremely generous city at helping others and I am sure they would be open to helping this small group of good people.

[@djack915]

We are full !!

[@MR..181]

Everybody else fled disease and fascists?

[@coffeecup3177]

@@tailgatecarpenter26 It is not about even the score. It is about providing assistance to people. Mayor Adams and the good taxpayers of NYC have the resources and money to provide a nice lifetime of assistance for the new immigrants. They certainly would not deny help to the Phoenix homeless that would arrive.

[@DanielleCapichano]

They're not generous, they're humane. New York state and Massachusettes are mandatory shelter states, meaning you go to their human resource administrations (I.E. Welfare office) and tell them you need a space, they're obligated to provide it to you. Most of the U.S. has no such legal provisions, hence a huge part of the reason why they have the issues they do.

[@coffeecup3177]

@@DanielleCapichano Massachusetts and New York should advertise they are mandatory shelter states. If the homeless knew this they could gravitate to those states. Families struggling could move there before they are evicted and be provided a nice home in a safe community.

[@Chano601]

Its not a housing issue! Its drug issue! The mayor refuses to enforce laws , thats why we see this!

[@bnwo]

And once they get off drugs, then what? You realize that there are people there who work full time and can't afford housing, right?

[@Quagigitymire]

your ignorance is laughable if it wasn't so foolishly harmful to the countless non-addicts currently homeless

[@Ret_Chrogames]

@dd what happens if they refuse repeated efforts to refer to drug treatment?

[@Chano601]

@dd give them 2 options , jail or rehab? Better them doing drugs away from my kids and family!

[@Chano601]

@@bnwo yes those people that are not on drugs get housing first

[@blondien6072]

Why does not the president help his people the same way he helps foreign countries. He needs to fix America first.

[@OWK000]

Building codes and zoning have made low-cost housing impossible.

[@MrKongatthegates]

Don’t forget the skyrocketing price of land labor and building materials. This isn’t just a government caused problem by any means. Things are changing

[@OWK000]

@@MrKongatthegates I like the ethic of Jimmy Carter's Habitat for Humanity and getting people to labor on their own homes. In the desert southwest if you own a few acres you can build super adobe and things like that. Labor intensive but doesn't require extreme skills or really expensive materials. Land is beyond the truly destitute, but if they could contribute labor to their own housing it would be a beautiful thing. Building codes and zoning make it harder and more expensive.

[@maiedova]

Yeah, that's the problem, it's certainly not greedy property owners profiteering. I live in Florida where new house construction is booming. There is a 6 month wait if you can get on the waiting list and it is the same for multiunit housing. Apartment complexes are raising rents an average of 20% with every lease renewal. My mortgage is less than $1000 but a typical 3-bedroom apartment is over $2000. Meanwhile you can't buy a used home because big real estate corporations are buying on average 50% of the homes listed sight unseen and then renting them out because the profit margins are incredible. So even if the first-time home buyers want to buy a used starter home you can't find one and then they have no choice but to pay ridiculously high rents. I'm talking about people in higher income brackets, imagine how people in low-income brackets are able to afford housing.

[@Phoenix-tq8lt]

I was homeless at this park addicted to fent a few months ago. Currently clean. I’ll be back for my homies :( with money for the best rehabs for them!! So much talent exists within the homeless of phoenix but it’s buried under the drug survival game… -Zach

[@ErikamGar]

Happy you are good now! 😊 Keep it up!

[@carlmorgan8452]

Homies probably found bard accommodations

[@arminiusofgermania]

Aren't people smart enough to maybe, I dunno, Not do drugs in the first place?

[@Naturefan354]

@@arminiusofgermania Intellectually most people are smart enough to not do drugs but not emotionally intelligent enough to not do drugs.

[@yomammaspoodle]

With all due respect, the time for compassion and "experiencing homelessness" is over. People are fed up with the brazen trashing of our cities, the disregard for our laws and the refusal to accept help or shelter. Many of these people love this lifestyle and don't want to get clean.

[@miketexas4549]

The "Covid pandemic" didn't do anything - it's the GOVERNMENT RESPONSE that caused all of the chaos and misery.

[@MM-dv9hp]

Homelessness will not go away until we DEAL WITH THE DRUG/MENTAL HEALTH Issues. Trauma induced mental illness and drug induced mental illness has reaped havoc on this country.

[@firstlast8258]

Not every homeless is on drugs or has mental health issues

[@MM-dv9hp]

@@firstlast8258 I think everyone can agree on that point. Still, a large number of people are Ill, which speaks volumes about our country’s need to address the mental health crisis. In fact, the story and the stories of the people presented is speaking largely about addiction and mental health. Mental illness is an underlining problem of homelessness.

[@firstlast8258]

@@MM-dv9hp nope it’s usually a drug and alcohol issue opposed to a mental health issue

[@MM-dv9hp]

@@firstlast8258 drug induced mental illness. Many of the drug users are self-medicating.

[@firstlast8258]

@@MM-dv9hp we they should medicate with something else

[@TheJust22az]

There is no one answer to the problem. As a volunteer for the homeless, most are drug addicted or have mental health issues and would not stay in a permanent housing.

[@LaTaeviaTanae]

I live in Arizona and I am 20 now but from 14-18 I was homeless. And it’s crazy that the pandemic happened literally during that time. I was working full-time and going to high school and then the pandemic hit and I wasn’t able to keep up with anything anymore I lost my job after I graduated high school and then I had to move because nowhere was hiring. I honestly hate it here. It’s like I want to say I’m OK but I’m not I’m literally one check away from being homeless again

[@williamw6869]

The government is the real pandemic.

[@carlmorgan8452]

Save for rainy days. Those days are here for me too.

[@BronxBombers_726]

I appreciate your comments and understand what you have been through. Blessings to you.

[@erinnicole5748]

@@carlmorgan8452 That's a great sentiment, but when you're one paycheck away from homelessness, what is she supposed to save? People who are stuck in the paycheck to paycheck trap (I'm one of them bc I was laid off and havent been able to find another a job in almost two months, I've never had trouble finding work before) don't have extra to save. That's why telling poor people to just save money is pointless. There is no extra to save.

[@chesterlee6508]

Scamdemic.

[@tyrone-tydavis5858]

Turn off all social services and watch how fast everyone gets some job. I work in a community that hands out a 40 page booklet detailing every resource imaginable available to people who are homeless. And geniuses can't imagine why homeless people keep flocking here.

[@johnnyyazzie7455]

Middle class and lower class income has become the new homeless..sad,very sad, while people get rich, you see this on the other side everyday... God needs to intervene

[@ArizonaAaron]

Let’s focus on the addiction, getting them employment, and then also work on housing. But focus on the ones that want the help.

[@jonasjones8828]

Covid seems to have avoided the homeless people

[@diannemc4840]

Imagine that.

[@enzone235]

It's like people think it's that easy, but it isn't.. I'm unemployed now for the last three weeks because of arthritis, trigger finger, and my wrist being injured. My ex boss didn't care about my health problems; everyday getting worse with overuse, had no choice but to quit. Only jobs available are labor or harsh on the hands so I'm getting worried. I have until the end of the month at my apartment if I don't find anything then homeless it is. I have no other option. I also have no family so it's tough.

[@Editnamehere]

Not an excuse. You should see what people in 3rd world countries do to be able to afford a piece of bread. At least your in America.

[@dsabre4990]

Solid reporting. Thank you 12 News. The citizens of Phoenix / Maricopa County have to push their gov't. It is unconscionable to have 8000+ homeless people and $100,000,000 in FUNDS being unused.

[@domcizek]

ITS THE "NIMBY" SYNDROME, NOBODY WANT SO A LOW COST HOUSING IN THEIR AREA WHERE THEY LIVE, SAD

[@griffin2263]

after working for a non profit ..98 % the reason people are homeless is due to addiction issues .. you can throw money at the problem all day long but until the person is ready to give up the drugs ,drinking ,etc ..the problem with not go away ..There is a very small percent that are not doing drugs ,selling etc but it is a very small percent and those people do really well with housing and support ..those are the ones you feel for .. homeless is an addiction issue ...

[@CodeGrayHere]

I don't know why it would be so hard for the city to provide structures for shade such as picnic ramadas, and restrooms including showers. Lockers to stash belongings would be kind, too.

[@CandiceMMartinez]

Because all of those structures would be trashed. These are not functional adults.

[@ev500sam]

So when they close the public toilets, then where are the parks homeless going to the restroom? 😳

[@TheAzSilk]

This has gotten way out of hand. This homeless crap is unbelievable. A lot of those people choose to be homeless. Not bills or responsibilities. Oh so sad

[@hmartin751]

I was homeless in az back in 2014-2017 it was drugs. Been clean for 5years now. Arizona is by far the worst state to be homeless there is absolutely no help

[@Editnamehere]

Don’t do drugs dum dum.

[@hmartin751]

@@Editnamehere anyone with your name is dumb af

[@johnb5254]

Allocate a plot of land with small sheds for them to live temporarily.

[@bingosunnoon9341]

When I lived in Phoenix, the homeless were given bus tickets to San Diego. Are they still doing that? This was when Terry Goddard was mayor. I was living at 20th and Osborn, lived there 20 years, left when it became unlivable.

[@mouse9665]

WORLD WIDE HAVE YOU SEEN OAKLAND CA? THIS IS BAD I LIVE IN TUCSON AND SAME HERE! I THANK GOD EVERYDAY THAT I AFTER 5 YEARS HOMEL3SS LIVING IN MY CAR FINALLY FOUND A SMALL CAMP TRAILER TO LIVE IN. ITS GHETTO WITH 5 CAMPERS ON A SMALL LOT AND SLUM LORDS BUT ALL I CAN AFFORD SINCE RENT IS RIDICULOUS.

[@jeffs4483]

Being homeless in Phoenix sounds like a death sentence.

[@ezerlenewatkins9644]

You can hardly walk around or drive around in most parts of phoenix. There are so many people without a place to live all out in parking lots. At bus stops. Behind stores, underneath the freeways. Abd all of these people are suddenly drug addicted, or mentally ill. I think not. Something needs to be done about these high rents in phoenix arizona. It is just a shame.

[@sasastankovic8760]

Carlos Garcia is the local councilman who pulls the "Do you know who I am?" card when pulled over by local poilice for a lawful stop. Glad you did this video but your concerns expressed to this councilman are going into one ear and coming straight out of the other. Time and time again he has shown to be all words and no action.

[@mr.willywinker4u849]

If that's the case then he like others need to lose their jobs and cut that dam hair that's disgusting dude your supposedly a councilman not s rock star

[@ChicagoBeaver]

Every city should have affordable housing to the clean and sober, working couples with kids individuals first. Establish a rental program based on peoples income and provide assistance to those who have jobs and those who are clean and sober. Many people just want to work and have their little apartment or house to live in. Once again, those who use drugs and alcohol cannot be assisted. There's got to be something similar to my idea bcz currently, this is not working.

[@alfonsoflores3770]

I'm homeless and I have my own program I am working on my self my morning start with prayer and Christian music to motivate my day and I go to work at a local bakery and I go to the restroom and use body wash shampoo and I shave and give my self a very good bird bath and put on deodorant and cologne and body spray and I brush my teeth wash my mouth out with mouthwash and I start working doing pots and pans and help out with other tasks I save all my payroll checks in my Bible because I have no use for cashing them or money everything is provided for me I'll wash my clothes at work at the washing machine and dryer and I go to a local church for the meals the key is saving checks I do Bible study by mail at the local library after work I don't use illegal drugs I don't drink alcohol I plan to use my money once saved to leave and go to a different state where it's cheaper Oklahoma cheaper rent I wish the homeless people the best of luck they need to do Bible study by mail need to pick up the Bible while being homeless miracles happen

[@valjean2036]

Good plan but where are you going to work where rent is cheaper? That will be the issue

[@whale2207]

You have to check on date to cash in. Some of those checks have a sort of expiration date. Check the checks.

[@alfonsoflores3770]

@@valjean2036 I'm homeless in Las Vegas the very wealthy and powerful are gentrification all of Las Vegas weeding out the homeless buying not properties apartment complexes and forcing the people out so why spend any more money in Nevada when I can save and leave with all my money

[@hisgraceislove11]

You will be a success keep doing good. God has the solution to meet our every need.

[@ewanfraser]

@@whale2207 yes many checks expire at 180 days

[@ireneandrade7684]

The church had to resort to fencing the property due to several assaults on church staff (senior citizens) and then homeless would defecate,litter and vandalize the grounds. No respect

[@caridadrevilla2439]

The worst thing that has happened is the clean needles program that was created. All it did was enable people to continue the use. Very very sad.

[@danieldaniels7571]

These people aren't using needles, they're smoking blues through foil.

[@Az_meg]

You obviously know very little about public health and how addiction works. If you think they keep using because of clean needles I have a beach property in Phoenix to sell you

[@fredrossman1189]

Very troubling, I got out of the city (LA) and moved to smaller towns until I live in the mountains in a shack. I am much happier. We all are hunter/gathers.

[@frederickmuhlbauer9477]

Sounds good

[@loopybla5001]

If people were paid a living wage there would be a lot less of this. It is just pure greed on the part of the corporations.

[@firstlast8258]

🤔

[@puppylove3781]

But who will work in my sweatshops. my prisons? Who will make my Nike and Reebok shoes??

[@pokeedge]

I have many homeless who actually just don't want to work. They say they like the freedom of it and as long as that's the case much of the problem is never really going to go away. Props to those that honestly just fell on hard times and make an honest attempt to recover

[@RandyR]

I am fighting to not be out there. On disability and the yuppies just raised the rent. Most aren't there by choice

[@frederickmuhlbauer9477]

No work No benefits

[@frederickmuhlbauer9477]

Randy R expatriate

[@JitzyJT]

@@RandyR pay up or move...landlords don't have some money making trees

[@alizafoster3916]

City officials are disgusting. Shame on them!!!!!!!

[@donnacarr4599]

The thing is when you get that low, people will not give you a job without residency. I is a hole you cannot crawl out of. And some of these people with mental health issues who may never be able get the help they need

[@robertbrown892]

when i was in phoenix....i used an address that businesses downtown...wouldn't even consider my application

[@midnight840]

Our hotel downtown surrounded by homeless , drugs , mental illness , trying to come on property all night , our guest worried about safety so yes it's problem . We get flyers from city about sex offenders , for rape , etc 90% men 10 % women .

[@RobertSmith-jd6wb]

Hahahaha suck it up buttercup

[@desertdog5397]

the city owns vacant land that they could use to house homeless..make those little tiny houses, let them stay there, temporarily while they find income, soc services, and a perm place to live

[@johngoodspeed3585]

Tiny Houses are a joke and would be ruined and abandoned within 6 months. How about drop building code standards and give landlords heavy tax incentives.

[@brandonGCHACHU]

I used to take my kids to Perry Park when they were little. I would still take a kid there. The homeless population in Phoenix is generally very friendly. When I drive by Perry Park now, yes, you see homeless everywhere but they leave the playground for the kids.

[@Sammy-il1qf]

I'd be worried about needles!

[@danieldaniels7571]

@@Sammy-il1qf they don't use needles, they smoke fentanyl through foil

[@firstlast8258]

@@Capeau America is a mixed economy try again

[@lyl3645]

I thought housing is cheap in Phoenix/Arizona in comparison to other states. Homeless is not a housing issue but a drug issue. Encampment should be forbidden on public streets and parks.

[@CaseyLouis]

I agree with you.

[@Cajeudy]

It used to be dirt cheap before the pandemic now with all these people moving there not anymore they insanely raised the rentals !

[@garyseeseverything8615]

My kids don’t feel safe at our local park anymore this was a fast change in past year! Homelessness has exploded.

[@firstlast8258]

Thank Joe mansion and the republicans

[@garyseeseverything8615]

@@firstlast8258 interesting response can you quickly explain that to me I don’t mean to eat up you time but I’m curious at to why?

[@firstlast8258]

@@garyseeseverything8615 so you want me to explain to you everything that has happened in congress for the past two years?

[@garyseeseverything8615]

@@firstlast8258 I understand liberal are to fit left and republicans too far right and they the house will now fall. Liberal democrats are extreme in nature right now too extreme and I’m liberal but I’m not crazy left.

[@firstlast8258]

@@garyseeseverything8615 my house will be strong but many disabled and seniors are going to wind up dead or in the streets if not sooner then later all thanks to joe mansion and the republicans

[@rogeralvarado6060]

The money goes to the pockets of the people running all the programs like the man you were just interviewing after he gets a good check goes on vacation nice house nice car that's where the money goes the rest of it is just nothing but excuses

[@MM-dv9hp]

Most nonprofits!

[@vandarkholme7759]

many here in the comments are praising scott personally

[@AR-cw4he]

I feel the Government needs to have “Free Mental Illness Clinics” no one can afford Insurance. Homelessness is becoming overwhelming in every State.

[@bobbybooker2123]

Mental illness and drug treatment on demand. It could save a lot of lives in the long run. But who wants that?

[@nairsheasterling9457]

Orrrrrrrrrrr single-payer healthcare, as all those plans include mental health and substance abuse care.

[@downrightmike]

Dude does drugs for over 30 years, and he says other people want him in a grave??? No man, you're doing that to yourself.

[@imminentthreat2923]

*4 of 4* The homeless can simply move the tents they are using now into the homeless-village and the RVs are assigned a parking space. *Or the **_Shelter 100,_** provided by FEMA,* is a $9,500 shelter that is climate controlled, built in one hour, is 100 sq. ft., and uses a folding bunk system to house up to four beds. *_Pallet Shelter's_* private sleeping cabins offer *security* and durability. Which addresses the concerns of the homeless who reject the restrictions of “bed-only” homeless-shelters; for only one night.

[@brucekrause2801]

How did everything get so out of balance in America? Once even minimum wage was enough to find somewhere to live.

[@DMayo984]

It’s not pointless for them to clean up, they make the mess! Pack rats!

[@4DLove0fGod]

We're praying for everyone of you. God bless America

[@xczechr]

If prayer worked do you think this would be what's happening?

[@never2yield20]

The homeless gather where they usually don't get hassled (often). The homeless unemployed want to be downtown, to panhandle, use nearby bathrooms, in & out food stores etc. etc. The addicted (alcohol, drugs) want to be near a supply. If you put them in a controlled area (like a camp out by the Phoenix transfer station along the Salt river (acres of open vacant space out there) many would not stay long. So you have to basically decide to deal with each case individually or separate them based on willingness to stay at a controlled camp/shelter. And then what about those that want to stay in a controlled space, some will need transportation to employment. I think it could be done. But Phoenix & AZ state show no signs of even thinking along these lines. It's just cheaper to send the municipal workers that maintain the parks to chase them across the street, like that solves the problem. And for those that say well lets get private builders involved to make cheap housing, go watch how the builders scammed the government out of millions of dollars. It was Fed money, and it happened in several states, Florida for one. It did get some buildings built, but also some fraud cases filed and people convicted.

[@jerryleroy9187]

Good comment! I've seen where if there's government involved, everything quadruples in price. It costs about 400 dollars just to change a toilet seat in a municipal building sometimes depending on how much money they have to get rid of before year's end budget. That's criminal. I did see an expose on a man that was getting donations and he was building little 6 by 8 portable shelters for the homeless and the city shut him down saying that they were a health hazard. Like living under a tarp is safer in some way? I don't think so. They were outfitted with smoke and carbon monoxide monitors and little solar lights with a locking steel door also, which in my opinion would be nice, cozy, and safe. The government doesn't want them to be that way because they want them in shelters and using the health care system. It all boils down to money in the long run.

[@temesinagusudrau605]

Ó

[@cyrusthegreat3081]

I am glad America can still help Ukraine and defend sovereignty! Way to go America!

[@jjbeast2119]

i was trapped homeless there when covid hit didnt even have a place for curfew so they started restricting the homles to one road near the hospital they would take us to motels instead of hospitals force us to not tell our family anything and take everything from us leave us in 100 degree rooms life is hell there

[@frederickmuhlbauer9477]

Slab City was 130F

[@Frenchylikeshikes]

Is it me or isn't each and every major city in the US, regarding of Dem of Reps being in charge, now struggle with homelessness? I think it is an issue that goes way above political parties: it is just how our society works.

[@shadetreader]

Give people housıng and healthcare. Yes, it's that simple. The reason no one is supposed to say this is because meeting human beings' basic needs isn't profıtable.

[@CaseyLouis]

Tell the homeless to get sober and get a job.

[@xtrey19x]

You give your house and either learn medicine or pay for it.

[@Moneyg73]

It really is just a human right. Like people really are dying because they don't have money. Food, healthcare and shelter should be human rights.

[@max420thc]

Your dumb ideas is why we have hyperinflation right now. Just stop the thinking and leave the masterminding to conservatives.

[@max420thc]

Human right ? You have a human right to steal others peoples production to make your life easier by making their life harder? I hope you never vote. People like you are why this country is so screwed up. You don’t have a human right to anything someone else has

[@juanacisneros8272]

I have a brother who was homeless due to alcoholism and drugs . He is doing great now , but he said they are a lot of people that don't want any help, others are mentally ill, a lot of them don't want to be told what to do. My brother said you really want to change in order to get help and leave that kind of life

[@adam-eo7vy]

Hi I know you're brother we were good friends on the streets we would look out for one and other we would drink during the day and most nights but we were very clean and well behaved we would clean up the encampments and help all the females from being attacked tell you're brother I said miss him and I'm glad to here he doing good 👍

[@stuarthobart6844]

My niece got a job in 4hrs started at 17$

[@radolfkalis4041]

Unfortunately, as they currently are, most of these folks are unemployable. One of the first things an employer looks for, aside from clean and presentable is address and phone number. This is where detox should come first.

[@terabillie7410]

Why is AZ. Sitting on soooo much money when this is going on.

[@vonrock6862]

A home ? Most need a life, as in healthcare, food, money, education….

[@usaisnojoke]

But the money has been being sent to the craphole called Ukraine.

[@johngoodspeed3585]

Abolish the minimum wage. They could be doing menial jobs.

[@moon000dog]

Is there a multi state, city forum for local governments to see what actually works with regards to helping homelessness instead of reinventing every time? I know there are private organizations that host the homeless, maybe they could be included for what works for them and what doesn't.

[@Commentthat]

The Phoenix government needs to have the homeless build there own houses and shelter them near the homes that they will be building themselves in the tents that they are in from there buy a few busses and give them factory jobs to to start. Bring in some teacher for tech and other careers. You need new planners in that city and every other city.

[@methus57]

all those homeless need to not drink or do drugs while working on the shelter

[@jasonh9335]

It’s disgusting how little local government does for it’s citizens in need. They should be ashamed of themselves for not making it a priority and move swiftly instead of taking their sweet time and making excuses why everything takes so long.

[@xlerosx]

They CAUSED it!

[@jayspot8894]

Same thing that is happening here in California (San Diego). Tons of money being wasted with no actual positive results. The vast majority of those living in encampments are mentally ill or drug addicts. You can see it in the footage you showed, people passed out and slumped over from fentanyl. Giving a drug addict their own apartment will not fix the problem. These people need to mandatory rehab and job services coming out of rehab. The only person who I have seen with a promising solution is Michael Shellenberger who I voted for Governor of California, unfortunately we still have Newsom. How long will we allow our cities and neighborhood to deteriorate like this? When will enough be enough? Unfortunately we will need to take a tough love approach if we want to se any meaningful improvements.

[@rebelrouzer5318]

Rehab only works if you want it to and put in the effort. Putting an addict that doesn't want to get clean is a waste of time as they will get out and get high the same day. I had to go 3 times before it worked but that's cuz I put in the effort to get clean.

[@jayspot8894]

@@rebelrouzer5318 I get that but I would personally rather force people into rehab a thousand times instead of let them take over the streets and deteriorate neighborhoods like this.

[@onetwo6039]

It sucks, but you can't help people who don't want to help themselves.

[@KN-eh2fh]

Why don't homeless people take a look at themselves and see what they did wrong in their lives. It's easy to blame others like government. You should thank government that they don't put encampment as a crime. Blaming culture is what keep you being homeless.

[@danieldaniels7571]

That and fentanyl

[@nofindausername]

That and spousal abuse and trying to run away. That and rent going ip over fifty percent. That and physical health problems. Car breaking down. Nit enough money to get another one or make the repairs.

[@michaeldesilvio5532]

Abandoned mansions castles skyscrapers malls hospitals amusement parks apartment complexes houses everywhere in Phoenix.

[@junaidisalam5718]

self proclaimed greatest country in the world, yet unable to build sufficient Affordable Housing for its people...

[@MR..181]

Or more profits for the rentier class

[@johngoodspeed3585]

To live in this country you must be tough, tough, tough and stay off of drugs!

[@joeselvage552]

That's great, there's a hundred million dollars they've been sitting on for 2 yrs where they haven't spent 10 percent of it and all he can say is it's expensive to have housing built for the inflow of people they are receiving.

[@ronv.6461]

Seems like the city would save a lot of money by not having to clean it every single day and having to patrol it every single day if they would just help these people find shelter no wonder why taxpayers are mad

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

They probably have shelter for at least some of them but they don’t want to be in the shelter because they have rules such as no alcohol and drugs.

[@bobbybooker2123]

Too many are satisfied with the status quo. The federal government should build attractive affordable housing and allow low income residents the purchase of those units while instituting a government work program for those who are able as was done during the great depression having public works performed and easing the burden of the tax payers..

[@gabrielacabrera4197]

Phoenix will never be at a point where there is affordable housing.

[@Modern_Nostalgia]

If they know they're failing, step aside and get someone who will do something about this.

[@JSUN19]

My first one bedroom was one hundred and sixty dollars a month you’ll never see that again

[@theultimate_]

Many cities have had amazing success with the "Tiny Home Community" solution. It's not expensive to try. Please? Consider it at the next council meeting? You could implement a Work Search Training Program, (also requiring proof of work searches per week), also you could require (for certain individuals) the cooperation of county drug rehab facilities, and offer the necessary info to get said treatment. It can be like a newer version of what the Salvation Army Homeless Shelters were supposed to be. Just think about it. It could do so much good for the community. (Edit: There would obviously be security and out door cameras. I figured that was implied) ((Double Edit: obviously nightly breathalyzers and frequent drug tests would be performed to stay in the tiny home community. BUT, this would be an AMAZING way for the city/county to show they really care about the community, on both sides, and are willing to offer the help needed, to stop this from becoming a pandemic! ))

[@TheML1111]

Regular drug and alcohol testing as well as proof of job searching should be required for any major aid. Then you will sort out the population of genuinely having an impossibility difficult period from the group that don’t really want a better way of living, just a more comfortable environment to get high and drunk in until they die of their natural causes.

[@theultimate_]

@@TheML1111 Obviously, Yes. Nightly breathalyzers like the Salvation Army, and tests for the drug offenders.

[@johngoodspeed3585]

Won't work, these problems often run much deeper.

[@BronxBombers_726]

Good ideas..something to try. Many people who comment about this make really ignorant comments. I think when you actually have to deal with this problem your attitude changes. I notice people always mention drugs and alcohol. Well I know not everyone on the streets has that issue.I know!! But it’s easy for folks to focus on that portion..it’s like a shiny object for people

[@shadetreader]

We don't need more "tiny houses", we need to exproprıate the existing housing that's being held hostage by greedy landl0rds.

[@davidw5416]

With all the open desert area around why don't they just set up pot-a-potties and aid stations in some of the vacant desert areas? kind of set up a tent city type thing, wouldn't be that expensive to set up and maintain, and then when vacancies occur in the shelter then they can move there but at least they will be off the streets and not forced to move all the time