I found myself among the homeless population in St. Cloud following a mental health crisis that left me temporarily disoriented and unfit to maintain regular housing. This bitter experience opened my eyes to what many homeless people in our city face, as I lived it firsthand. Only through determination and resilience did I manage to get back on my feet, ultimately becoming a manager at the shelter that once provided me refuge.

It is an undeniable reality that despite being one of the richest countries globally, the US still struggles with homelessness. Homelessness is a vastly growing epidemic not only in America but throughout the world. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, as of January 2019, Minnesota recorded an estimated 7,977 people experiencing homelessness on any given day. As of 2023, in St. Cloud's 742 School district, about 700 students were found to be homeless. Between 2019 and 2023, the homeless population just in Stearns county alone increased over a whopping 200%. These figures are disturbing and call for immediate action.

The heartbreaking task of turning away those seeking refuge due to our city's misguided policies is a burden too heavy to bear. The contradiction is apparent - the county hands out tents, yet city policy bans their setup; we are draining our resources to deter the homeless from erecting tents when these resources could be channeled to tackling bigger issues like the drug and human trafficking epidemics.

Our city's policies also suspend access to shelters during harsh weather conditions. We need to offer respite to our brothers and sisters when they risk potential death from the elements, without the city denying this because of draconian policies. There were on average 5 deaths a year from the cold just in St. Cloud, 5 too many. It is anti human to expose vulnerable adults to the elements.

It is time to reassess our humanity, St. Cloud. We need to modify our city's policies regarding homelessness, targeting the battle's root cause rather than fighting the symptoms. We urge the relevant authorities to employ effective, humane solutions to address homelessness in St. Cloud, focusing more on policy changes, shelter management, proper funding, and support for our homeless citizens.

This personal experience is a testament that change is possible, but only if we come together. We can make our city more compassionate and just. Please, sign this petition to urge St. Cloud city authorities to change their policies and practices around homelessness.