We are a group of seniors at Kennedy High school. This petition is the result of a deep personal experience - our dearest friend and football teammate Tyus Carter was once homeless. Seeing firsthand the struggles and difficulties that he had to endure has strongly emphasized the importance of tackling homelessness in our society, notably in the Sacramento area.

In Sacramento, the homeless rates have been spiraling out of control. A point-in-time survey completed in 2019 found an astonishing 19% increase in homelessness since 2017 (Sacramento Continuum of Care). In an area filled with opportunity, prosperity, and resources, it's dreadful that thousands still sleep on the streets every night.

We need urgent and consolidated efforts to combat this issue. That all starts with engaging the public. We need to come together as a community, using our collective voice to call upon local authorities to invest more in social programs - affordable housing, mental health services, and job training facilities, which would reduce homelessness.

Every signature in this petition sends a strong message - We care about our community, we care about individuals like Tyus, and we won't accept inaction when it comes to resolving homelessness. Your support can spur the necessary change and make a difference in the lives of many who are still struggling on the streets of Sacramento.

Remember, it's not just about reducing a statistic - it's about giving individuals like Tyus the chance at a life they deserve. So, let's stand together and make a change. Please, sign this petition today.