What’s keeping you out?

1. I want to help people, but I don’t want these homes in my neighborhood.

   You may not realize it, but supportive and affordable housing is already all around us. These buildings are designed to be attractive so they blend in. It also is important to remember that most people experiencing homelessness stay in the communities where they lost their homes regardless of whether they’re housed. These are our neighbors. Moving them from encampments into supportive housing improves the health of our communities. That’s why supportive housing has been found to lift property values in neighborhoods where it is built.

2. I want to know more about the financial implications—this sounds expensive.

   Providing housing for people experiencing homelessness is much cheaper than ignoring the problem. In fact, supportive housing costs taxpayers 43% less than treating people on the streets. And it’s cheaper per unit, over the life of the building, than a shelter bed or motel room.

   Affordable housing prevents homelessness and the ensuing cost to taxpayers. It also keeps working, taxpaying adults employed and contributing to their communities.

3. I don’t think homelessness is really that big an issue in Long Beach.

   At the time of the most recent homeless count, there were 1,894 people experiencing homelessness in Long Beach. It is estimated that 3,000 people will experience homelessness in the city this year. That may not seem like a lot compared to neighboring Los Angeles, but that’s all the more reason to take action. This is a problem we can truly solve if we work together.

   The fact is this: One person experiencing homelessness is a big issue. 3,000 is a moral crisis we cannot ignore.