Ontario "opens arms" to the homeless

In a safer area near the Ontario ariport, 250 homeless people have pitched tents over the past six months, to government approval. This community spans across open lots, spilling into side streets, a welcome change from cars and brideges that many residents here usually inhabit. For many, this is the change that will save lives. With food, water, showers, portable toilets, and police security, the city has "put their homeless on display." People from various backgrounds including mental illness, alcoholism, pregnant women, parolees, and others that have fallen on hard times inhabit the "tent city." One assault has occured and police warn that the "rest area" is not a place for children to play or families to visit. Rather, airborne illnesses and sporadic violence are factors that cannot be completely fixed by police.

Despite the dangerous factors that inhabit the area, I was interested in this story because it seems like a step in the right direction. As opposed to some cities that practically ban homeless, Ontario has provided a location that people can find their basic needs met, including security. Many homeless shelters are helpful but so many are also dangerous. With on-site police, Ontario seems to be working in favor of the people. It is refreshing to read about a city invested in their citizens instead of fighting against them. Of course, this option is not ideal in any way but it is certainly a hopeful, promising change.