New York: The NY city is experiencing a fatal blow of homelessness probably the first of its kind centuries after the Great depression. The government had to cut down its subsidy program owing to which, it was forced to provide shelter and food to around 20,000 homeless children each night. It is quite ironical that the rate subsidy would have been far less when compared to the amount that is spent every night. Policy Analysists calculate the amount to be thrice the cost of providing a homeless family with a permanent residence.
The scholars also state this as an example of the authorities’ need to foresee and employ policies that would help people in the longer term rather than looking for short term solutions to solve an immediate crisis. They also point out how there might be a ripple effect, causing repercussions in the society and eventually bringing it down. The government should also be able to consider the education, schooling and overall development of these children, who might be affected by the whole scenario. Social workers and care givers should be employed to ensure the lessening of the impact on their young minds.
At the same time, there is also a lot of pressure for the government from all around the globe, to take immediate action. There are also rumours that the government might reconsider the policy and there might be a revival of the old policy.
There is also widespread discussion revolving the new Advantage program bestowed in NY City. This new program, enables a less fortunate family to get a home through listing, real estate agents are bound to give preference to them owing to their lack of financial ability.
The Advantage program ensures that their housing expenses would be completely met. However if the families chose to stay in shelter homes, they may not be entitled for the above mentioned, Advantage program. Though some section of people look forward to it and see it as a solution to the homeless issue, many others disapprove of it and slam it as inappropriate and also blame it to bring divide amongst people.
Putting aside it all, it is also relevant to think of a solution where a child is ensured that he /she is able to go to the same school every day and has the same set of friends to play with too. Whatever be the case, it is important to put a roof over his head and it is also the responsibility of the society to ensure that he/ she has a happy childhood.