Source: Santa Barbara County Grand Jury
Santa
Barbara County is in the midst of a homeless crisis that long predates the
challenges of the current COVID-19 pandemic. People are roaming the streets
with no home of their own, and there is an increase of people living in their
cars, camping in parks, or sleeping on the sofas of friends and relatives.
Multiple families are often sharing cramped quarters. Shamefully, Santa Barbara
County has one of the highest rates of homeless school-age children and youth
in the State.
The
2019-20 Santa Barbara County Grand Jury elected to study this societal problem.
The
Jury found that there is a dearth of both affordable and permanent supportive
housing, shelters are full, and there is a lack of day centers. The high cost
of land, insufficient funding, and neighborhood resistance contribute to the
problem. Despite the hard work and dedication of local charities and government
workers, homeless rates are increasing. Stronger leadership at the county and
city levels, a consistent source of funding, and community support are required
to help alleviate the human suffering caused by this situation.
EDHAT.Com
June 25, 2020
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