Failed Policies by Elorza See Homeless Sleep on Providence City Hall Steps

Failed Policies by Elorza See Homeless Sleep on Providence City Hall Steps

It is no secret Providence — and Rhode Island — are continuing to feel the devastating economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. 

In addition to the thousands who lost their lives, thousands more have lost their jobs, businesses and for some, even their homes. 

Providence especially was already struggling with how to address homelessness in the city even before the pandemic.

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Now, it has literally come to Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza’s doorstep. A person, seen last week bundled up under blankets, took care to hang their belongings on City Hall's gate. 

In 2017, Elorza had presented a “vision for the future of Kennedy Plaza led by community input.”

“Vibrant public spaces are a big part of Providence’s reputation as a fun and captivating destination,” said Elorza at the time.  “I’m thrilled that this vision will help transform Kennedy Plaza into a true civic heart for our city.”

Elorza recently addressed the issue of homelessness in his review of the Providence Police Department — and in his Fiscal Year 2022 budget. 

“If an individual is experiencing a mental health, substance abuse, or homelessness crisis, and the first or most recurring response is a call to the police, then the system has failed," said Ronal Serpas, Senior Advisor for PFM’s Center for Justice & Safety Finance, who conducted the police review.

“Through this effort by PFM and Mayor Elorza's office, Providence is taking the first step to imagining a different type of public safety response — a prevention-first approach that can better serve the community by helping prevent crime and public safety calls for service before they occur, make smarter use of taxpayer dollars, and allow law enforcement officials to do their jobs more effectively,” Serpas added.

According to Elorza’s office, his proposed FY22 budget “invests in the outreach supports for the most vulnerable residents in Providence. These investments include $330K in neighborhood-based services for people experiencing homelessness or suffering from substance use disorders, at risk of overdoses, and/or in need of social service support throughout the City.”

The issue is facing Elorza right on City Hall’s steps.