LifeNet4Families is a non-profit organization in Broward that offers support services to homeless individuals. They provide close to 400 meals a day from their pantry and help with mental health, substance abuse, and housing needs. One of the individuals they assist, Ward Mosely, expressed his concerns about a new law in Florida that will ban public sleeping. Despite the upcoming ban, Mosely emphasized the importance of finding a safe place to sleep.
Mark Adler, the vice president of LifeNet for Families, criticized the new law, calling it a “scary” attempt to criminalize homelessness. He believes that the issue of homelessness is complex and requires more effective solutions than punitive measures.
The new law, HB 1365, is set to take effect on October 1 and will prohibit sleeping in public areas such as streets, sidewalks, and parks. Will Raymond, an engineer who is currently homeless, condemned the law as unconstitutional and predicted that it would lead to increased incarceration rates among homeless individuals.
Another homeless individual, Joe Ingroia, questioned the effectiveness of the law, stating that people would continue to sleep in public places due to the lack of viable alternatives. He suggested that addressing rising rents through rent control could be a more practical solution.
Father Bob Caudill, who operates the All Saints Catholic Mission in Oakland Park, expressed optimism that the new law might hold cities and counties more accountable for addressing homelessness. He has been advocating for the homeless for years and believes that increased accountability could lead to positive changes.
In South Florida, homelessness remains a pressing issue, with thousands of individuals living in emergency shelters or on the streets. Ron Book, the chairman of the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, highlighted the lack of capacity in existing shelters and emphasized the need for permanent supportive housing for the most vulnerable homeless populations.
Despite the challenges faced by homeless individuals, programs like the one offered by Camillus House in Miami are providing opportunities for transformation. Omayra Rivera, a graduate of Camillus House’s Transformative program, shared her journey from homelessness to securing a job in the hospitality industry. Through training and support, Rivera and others like her are finding new hope and opportunities for a better future.