After reading the article on Columbian.com about micro communities (“Micro communities for the homeless sprout in U.S. cities eager for small, quick and cheap solutions,” Associated Press, June 16), I am curious why the city of Vancouver has chosen to move forward with a bridge shelter rather than developing a micro community like those in Atlanta and Denver. Based on the AP article, the micro community appears to be similar in cost of operation and development but provides each individual with their own space rather than just a bunk bed in a large building.
Information regarding large congregate shelters suggests the micro community model would be much more humane and likely to produce healthier and longer-term results. Viewing photos from the interiors of congregate shelters like the proposed bridge shelter makes me wonder how anyone living with a mental illness would feel safe there. In fact I’d guess it would likely exacerbate symptoms.
Knowing that there is no way our community could build enough affordable housing in the next five years for anyone to move into from the bridge shelter, micro communities appear to be a better option for people over the long term.
