There is a crisis in our city. Homelessness is getting worse as the years go by. With new laws imposed to prevent the dangers surrounding homelessness, a lack of enforcement leaves the vulnerable in an even more exposed position. Statistics show that thousands of men and women in the city have taken residence in one of the privately owned shelter services in the last year. That number is steadily rising. It does not represent those struggling with homelessness in our community as a whole. That number only reflects on those who could afford the nightly fees or had acceptance into a pay-later program. There are many more who struggle with disabilities and other poor circumstances preventing them from receiving shelter and food due to simply being unable to care for themselves. This can also include debts, scams, and identity theft. 

While many of these facilities offer free daytime services such as showers and laundry, those securities do no good after the sun begins to set. When the conditions are harsh, many organizations have partnered with local authorities to raise awareness for free shelter and transportation even reducing barriers that may prevent individuals from being allowed entry. This may sound like the best solution to the problem of the revolving door. There are many who are left unassisted. The elements of nature are harsh even well into the city limits. Stray animals, pests, and other wild life pose a danger to those who seek shelter in the outdoors. There are also hazards such as bullying, violence, and peer pressure which lead to unsafe conditions for everyone involved. 

Pensacola is home to many. Some of our neighbors are not receiving the fair treatment that they deserve in their time of need. Families are being torn apart and everyday people are being reduced to statistics. There is no excuse for the losses that are being caused by the lack of awareness that is consuming our city. As our youths grow in their developing stages of life, they are left to witness cruel and unusual circumstances being forced onto people who are often considered less than or unworthy. This will have an impact for generations to come. 

Alongside those who are learning what it means to be a functioning member of society, there are even more adults who suffer the negative consequences of living alongside those suffering in the community. Whether you are a Pensacola native or you have found a new place to call home, seeing the impact of economic struggles creates bias and prejudice that we carry with us everywhere we go. There is only one way to break the cycle, and that is to end the conscription of the less fortunate into services that do them more harm than good. It is time to call on our local leadership and change a very broken system. 

Thank you for your consideration! Every little bit helps. I hope that this petition has been relatable, and that you are willing to share it with others who may see its important benefits. You can find my other petitions on my Linktree.

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