March 1: H.O.P.E. for the Homeless :: Mobilization at City Council

March 1: H.O.P.E. for the Homeless :: Mobilization at City Council

For the past year the Mid-South Peace and Justice Center has been working with the policy and planning committee for the MAYORS’ Plan to End Homelessness in Memphis and Shelby County. At the core of all of the policy and programs within is an embrace of HOUSING FIRST principles and models and a shift towards rapid rehousing and permanent supportive housing for the unsheltered. This has been a entirely data driven process, identifying best practices from cities... all over the country and customizing them for maximum positive effect here in Memphis.

You can download a full copy of the report here
This is the single most significant series of reforms for area homeless in modern history…. but…without your help and support, it’s just pretty words on paper.

On Tuesday, March 1st the Memphis City Council will be formally presented with this plan for approval and we need each and every one of you to join us in council chambers as we raise our voices in support of these badly needed reforms. Funding for these reforms will require some local funding from Memphis and Shelby County government, to augment existing federal and foundation dollars to be a full success. It should be noted that we could accomplish all of the goals of this plan for less than one percent of the annual operating budget of the city. These reforms will also save City and County tax dollars via decreased emergency medical cost to the MED, decreased calls to Memphis Fire and Police services and fewer 911 emergency calls in extreme weather, all of which accounts for tens of millions of dollars in government spending every year. Funding this plan is not simply the moral thing to do but it’s also in all of our long-term fiscal best interests as a community. Join us as we mobilize to support real positive change here in Memphis.

Mobilization in support for H.O.P.E. at City Council
Time: Tuesday, March 1st, 3:30pm
Location: City Council Chamber, 125 North Main Street

If you have any questions please contact Brad Watkins at brad@midsouthpeace.org


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