In the new year, we must make a commitment to end homelessness.
It is heartbreaking to see many individuals and families without homes in America.
Many children do not have roofs over their heads. Many adults suffer without proper shelter. And many seniors feel hopeless because of homelessness.
There are also many military veterans, who have served our country with great bravery and courage, living on the streets.
Many people who are homeless have many other challenges as well, such as lack of access to quality health care services, food insecurity, and mental health problems. These issues grow in intensity the longer people stay without proper housing.
In this day and age when society has so many resources, there is no reason why we cannot end homelessness.
Homelessness is not just an issue for those who are directly impacted by it. It is also a sign of failure for the society where homelessness exists.
Right here in my home state of Wisconsin, there are many homeless people. Anyone visiting downtown Madison, Wisconsin’s capital, would see homeless people on the streets. In Milwaukee, too, there are many individuals suffering from homelessness. All across the state, there are people who are stuck in the web of homelessness.
In a state that experiences harsh winters, with extremely cold conditions, homeless individuals face extremely difficult circumstances. The same is true for other homeless individuals and families in other parts of the country.
Therefore, it is time for society to make a commitment to find solutions to end homelessness and to ensure that every American gets to experience the comfort of a safe home. It is only when we end homelessness, we can ensure that every person can live with dignity. In the new year, ending homelessness must be a top priority.