San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan is defending his 'Responsibility to Shelter' initiative, which strives to relocate people living in tents and encampments to temporary housing and treatment programs. With support from Governor Gavin Newsom's recent statement urging local governments to enhance ordinances against public camping, Mahan aims to garner public backing ahead of a council vote. He distinguishes his approach from criminalization, asserting it focuses on engaging those unable to accept help due to mental illness and addiction, while ensuring that interim housing facilities provide safe and dignified living conditions for residents.
Mahan emphasized that the plan aims to engage those unwilling to accept help, focusing instead on providing appropriate treatment rather than criminalizing homelessness.
His initiative is a departure from traditional methods and seeks to address people deeply affected by mental illness and addiction, with respect for their dignity.
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