All deserve safe home

Arkansas is a “conservative state,” and I acknowledge this—however, we talk about “the need to build relationships” and “it takes time to build these relationships.”

How much time does it take? Will we ever have the political will to address this reality? Shelter is a basic human need; it follows after the physical needs (for air, water, food, rest, and health). We must work to help provide resources to assist our citizens in accessing quality, appropriate housing to meet their needs.

I have been working with housing advocates to seek resources for affordable housing for more than 20 years, and this work has been with many outstanding elected representatives. However, even now, in 2017, we still are running into brick walls and roadblocks. What is the real issue? Why do some of our current leaders apparently not see a need to address housing issues of our vulnerable Arkansans?

We as responsible citizens should affirm: 1. Every child deserves a safe place to call home; 2. A place to call home offers seniors (and persons with disabilities) an opportunity to live and grow with independence and dignity; 3. Our veterans should have access to safe, affordable housing; and 4. Hardworking Arkansans should be able to afford a home and still have enough money for groceries and child care.

Will we ever have the political will to address this reality? Shelter is a basic human need. RICH ROY Little Rock Rich Roy is co-chairman of Housing Arkansas.