Revision #283377

One-size-fits-all strategy won't solve homelessness.

One-size-fits-all strategy won't solve homelessness. By Eric Protein Moseley Published in Santa Maria Times Apr 16, 2025 As stated in a recent City Council agenda, Eric Protein Moseley values the City of Santa Maria's ongoing efforts to combat homelessness. Seeing thier leaders acknowledge the seriousness of this problem is heartening. But given his personal experience, he believes they need to dispel the myth that all homeless people reside in camps. The most noticeable group, those in tents or on sidewalks, is all too frequently the focus of public attention. However, there is a continuum of homelessness. Moseley has seen three separate “classes” that assist explain the diverse realities: First-class homelessness: Individuals and families actively trying to return to mainstream society. Many are working or seeking work, sleeping in cars, motels, shelters, or on friends’ couches. They’re often overlooked because they’re not easily seen, but they have the highest potential to rebound with the right support. Many are just one opportunity away from stability. Middle-class homelessness: Individuals torn between temporary security and persistent failures. The struggles of the third class and the tenacity of the first class both influence their lives. They might alternate between short-term initiatives and live in perpetual uncertainty. They run the risk of becoming even more homeless in the absence of consistent care. Those who are most noticeable and most stereotyped are considered third-class homeless. Many struggle with severe issues including trauma, addiction, or mental illness and have minimal social interaction. They need significant, long-term support and frequently reside in encampments. Despite being the most recognizable face of homelessness, they merely make up a portion of the problem. As policy, allocate resources, and engage the community, Moseley hopes communities and the leaders there of broaden thier understanding and respond with solutions that meet people where they are. Real progress starts with recognizing the full spectrum of homelessness in Santa Maria and far beyound. This opinion is a part of Moseleys Mandate Future Politicians to Prioritize Homelessness & Homeless Voices Matter/ Listen to the Voices of the Homeless Campaign. It is also tied into the Coolest cowboy Records/The Empathy for AI Initiative. https://santamariatimes.com/opinion/letters/letters-to-the-editor-one-size-fits-all-strategy-wont-solve-homelessness/article_6c90a09e-4f18-4077-8329-c30f2ff95f10.html

One-size-fits-all strategy won't solve homelessness.

A Part of the Mandate Future Politicians to Prioritize Homelessness Campaing & The Homeless Voices Matter/ Listen to the Voices of the Homeless Campaign

English

Opinion piece