I, along with many of my community members, am deeply concerned about the proposed construction of a homeless shelter on 5045 Marshall Street. This location exists less than a mile away from a local elementary school and a vibrant family neighborhood.

Our worry is not only grounded in the proximity of the proposed location to these sensitive areas but also due to the lack of resources available in a 2-mile radius of the proposed site. This very fact may create unforeseen consequences to the community there, already trying their best to provide an enriching environment for their children.

Many studies, such as the one conducted by Culhane et al. (1998), have outlined the strong correlation between homeless shelters and incidences of crime and substance misuse. This is not to insinuate that our homeless citizens are inherent criminals. On the contrary, it points out the challenges they face, which can inadvertently impact the community around them. It is our obligation to ensure that the most vulnerable in our society are provided a shelter, but we also have the responsibility to think about the location strategically.

This is an appeal to stop the building of a homeless shelter at 5045 Marshall Street. We ask city planners and decision makers to consider the potential ripple effects of placing a homeless shelter in areas close to schools and residential neighborhoods, and instead propose alternative locations that offer comprehensive access to necessary support resources. Careful planning can make a difference not just in integrating our homeless citizens but in maintaining the peace and safety of our neighborhoods. Sign this petition to voice your concern.