I am currently homeless, and not long ago, I was evicted from a shelter run by a non-profit organization. The reason? I had been there "too long". When I tried to file a grievance against the decision, it became clear that the process was biased - the director of the non-profit, who had made the decision to evict me in the first place, would be overseeing my complaint.

This experience has shown me firsthand how essential it is for homeless individuals to have access to unbiased advocacy within these shelters. Every person deserves fair treatment and an equal chance at securing stable housing. Yet without an on-site advocate dedicated to assisting with personal housing plans, many like myself are left feeling helpless and unheard.

According to National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty (NLCHP), 3.5 million Americans are likely to experience homelessness in a given year (National Coalition for the Homeless). Many of these people rely on shelters as their primary source of support during this time. However, without adequate advocacy within these institutions themselves, we risk perpetuating cycles of homelessness rather than breaking them.

Therefore, we call upon local governments and relevant authorities across our nation: mandate that all homeless shelters provide an on-site advocate dedicated solely towards assisting individuals with their personal housing plans. This will ensure fair treatment for all residents and provide them with much-needed support as they navigate their path towards stable housing.

Please sign this petition today; help us bring about this crucial change in our homeless shelter system.