Monique DeSpain’s guest column regarding homelessness demonstrates in full detail her lack of understanding of causes and solutions to this ongoing crisis.

She asserts that the root problem is ideological and not financial. Tell that to the chronically homeless individual who faces a waitlist just to enter one of our community’s alternative shelters, not to mention housing. DeSpain misunderstands the concept of “Housing First” and ignores the evidence that people can only stabilize their lives if they have a safe place to sleep.

Contrary to DeSpain’s assertions, Housing First programs do come with stipulations and support for treatment. And DeSpain disregards the devastating impact on these very programs from federal cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. She wants them to get treatment, but is she willing to pay for it?  

Compare DeSpain’s ill-informed diatribe with Rep. Val Hoyle’s thoughtful, dedicated and steadfast commitment to evidence-based solutions. During my tenure as mayor of Eugene, Hoyle worked with the city to delve into the work of public and private agencies investing in addressing housing, healthcare and public safety. She understands that this crisis has built over decades and cannot be solved without long-term, consistent investments.    

Hoyle is a key advocate for the recently passed federal “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.” That act is a big part of the solution, increasing home construction, bringing down costs and making home ownership easier and more affordable.

Addressing homelessness is an “all hands on deck” challenge that calls on all levels of government to respond. Hoyle’s leadership is clear-eyed, practical, and with an eye toward long-term investments that respond to a long-term problem, in contrast to DeSpain’s empty ideological talking points.

Lucy Vinis
Eugene