Use a different tactic

Homelessness has remained an issue in Arkansas for a period of time now. As a result of homelessness becoming a wide-range issue, many government-funded programs have been enabled to aid the homeless; however, many still remain unsheltered without any help. Due to the high rates of homelessness across the state, taking charge progressively will at one point bring an end to this issue.

Many solutions have been proposed in terms to decrease homelessness. One is to build more shelters; however, with the construction of more shelters, the process will just be repeated where not all homeless will receive the benefits of shelters. The best candidate for this issue would be to remove the involvement of the criminal justice system in homelessness. In addition to transferring law enforcement interactions into the hands of homeless services, there need to be alternatives to incarceration, expanding on supportive housing, and reducing barriers to housing, employment, and services.

Homelessness is a problem that affects every corner of Arkansas. The high rates of homelessness affect not only the individual but the entire nation as a whole. Millions of dollars are going to fund programs designated for the homeless, yet none of it is going to be used due to the never-ending homelessness-jail cycle. Therefore, with the inclusion of these efforts and by pushing aside the excessive involvement of the criminal justice system, the homelessness-jail cycle will be broken, resulting in fewer homeless being brought back to jail and straight onto the streets.

SARINA PATEL

Hot Springs