Resolution 57 - Homeless Encampment Crisis

Questioned the effectiveness of emergency hotel funds and highlighted how high rental costs and luxury developments squeeze low-income residents.

Argued that giving unhoused people only 10 days to move is inhumane and that housing instability affects many employed residents.

Shared personal experiences of homelessness as a student and musician, urging council to show compassion and find solutions.

Shared personal struggles with disability, fixed income, and housing loss, asking council to recognize the community's heart.

Emphasized that unhoused individuals are talented community members in hard spots who need immediate short-term housing solutions.

Explained that the encampment is clean and well-maintained, asking where residents are expected to go by Monday.

Shared her experience of being unhoused with her daughter for two years and praised the encampment community for providing safety and family.

Shared her struggles as an amputee trying to maintain employment while experiencing housing insecurity and utilizing the YMCA shelter.

Expressed deep frustration that housing issues persist without resolution since previous council discussions.

Stated that unhoused residents feel treated like trash and called for year-round shelters and long-term solutions.

Spoke as co-chair of the Allentown Commission on Homelessness, thanking council for unity and offering the commission's advisory support.