North County can do more for homeless 

Thank you for writing “Out of reach” in the June 30 issue highlighting the search for solutions for the homeless of Paso Robles. I was inspired by the personal connection you made with the lost and forgotten people of our community.

Homelessness is a constant concern for me as it should be for all community members of Paso Robles. Where is the community uproar, the town meetings, and/or fundraisers to brainstorm solutions? Why are the Chamber of Commerce, the school district, city officials, and all community churches not making headlines by coming together on this subject? This is a rich community with some great people that are able to help.

May I offer a suggestion: The Oak Park development offers sections of units to farmworkers, Section 8 housing, elderly, and families. Why not a section for transitioning homeless families?

One of the underlying causes of the increase in homelessness is landlords who are spiking rents in the North County. While North County was desired by some because of the lower-end rents three to five years ago, it is now nearly impossible to afford for too many.

I volunteer on Tuesday mornings at Second Baptist Church’s Christ Kitchen. It pains me to see the absence of simple needs of these people who are avoided. With proper services, they could have hope. The ones who want a better life and are willing to abide by mandatory expectations are the ones who should be housed now! No child in our county should be homeless.

-- Alison Leyva - Paso Robles