To the editor: The latest report about roughly 40% of individuals within the metropolis’s homelessness program returning to the streets raises critical issues in regards to the effectiveness and accountability of Los Angeles’ $300-million housing initiative (“Under L.A. mayor’s $300-million homeless program, 40% have returned to the street,” April 5). Whereas the intention behind these applications is commendable, the outcomes counsel that one thing basic isn’t working.
Taxpayers have invested closely in options that had been promised to scale back homelessness, but many residents are witnessing the other. Encampments persist and in some neighborhoods, they’re rising. On the identical time, low- and middle-income Angelenos — particularly working households — are struggling to maintain up with rising rents, typically with out significant help. This creates a way of imbalance that’s tough to disregard.
Offering housing with out ample long-term help providers could also be a part of the issue. Steady housing isn’t just a couple of roof — it requires psychological well being care, dependancy therapy, job coaching and constant follow-up. With out these, people are at excessive threat of falling again into homelessness, which seems to be occurring at an alarming price.
Equally essential is equity. Many residents who work, pay taxes and comply with the foundations really feel ignored. They don’t qualify for subsidies but are more and more burdened by the excessive value of dwelling. When insurance policies seem to prioritize free housing for some whereas others wrestle to afford hire, public belief erodes.
Los Angeles wants a extra balanced and clear method — one which measures outcomes rigorously, prioritizes long-term stability over short-term placement and considers the wants of all residents. Compassion should be paired with accountability. In any other case, we threat spending extra whereas fixing much less.
Hua Gu, Calabasas
