Colleagues,

These are the talking points Gerrit, Kevin and I discussed and Kevin prepared last Saturday and shared with the Coalition Friday.  They are posted on our Coalition website.  Here's a copy for you.  We can refine them over time.  Please keep in mind that we know of three people experiencing homelessness who have died already this winter - on the porch of a vacant house, in their vehicles.  

How many more? 

Please be safe,

Maureen

Housing is a basic human need. 

We as a community have failed our neighbors experiencing homelessness by not collectively and effectively addressing the root causes of homelessness. 

The existence of vacant buildings while men, women and children are living on the streets is the clearest sign of this communal failure to ensure all residents have access to safe shelter. 

Individuals and families choosing to peacefully occupy empty buildings to avoid sleeping on the streets is a non-violent way of meeting their basic needs.