Residing in San Diego, we are no stranger to the immense spike regarding the housing market. In this past year alone, the housing prices heightened by 7.6 percent. However, as demonstrated in the past, as the cost for housing increases, so does the homeless population.

San Diego currently ranks number 4 regarding homelessness in the United States, with approximately 10,264 residents actively displaced. Recent census results revealed that this is a 22 percent increase from the previous year of 2022. Among these residents, at least 40 percent experience a psychiatric disability. Despite the substantial growth of the homeless population, there is still a scarcity of mental health programs issued, with less than half receiving proper treatment.

Reluctance. Hesitance. Something we have all experienced at least once. However, these feelings may sometimes affect our discernment between right and wrong.

As a teen growing up in San Diego, I have noticed the substantial increase to the encampments located downtown. With the expansion of these camps, criticism towards the San Diego Government reached an all time high, with many claiming that they feel unsafe.

However, despite these criticisms, nothing has been done to put a halt to this homeless crisis. I observed that this reluctance to assist the community comes from the viscous stereotypes that have been implemented in our mind—substance abuse.

In a brief interview with Fox News, Bill Wells, the Mayor of El Cajon vocalized his concerns regarding the homeless community.

He comments, “Almost all homelessness is linked to drugs or alcohol.”

Yet, throughout his interview he fails to acknowledge the effect mental health has on the community, citing substance abuse as the only contributor to the rising statistics.

It was brought to my attention that Wells is not the only one who holds these views though, many adults also gave into this false propaganda, inevitably passing these thoughts to the younger generation. Many are reluctant, or hesitant, to assist with the betterment of the displaced population.

With programs similar to Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) and H.O.M.E, individuals and families who have been displaced are able to seek a proper place of refuge. Outreach programs that prioritize mental health services can assist those who seek betterment of their life as well as those who suffer from substance abuse.

Although there is no direct correlation, studies exhibited that those who suffer with their mental health also struggle with addiction. Many rely on drugs, such as ecstacy, to relieve them of their ongoing mental health struggles; however, rather than stopping the problem completely, it only makes the situation worse, providing only temporary relief.

With adequate outreach programs, destitute individuals have the opportunity to seek proper sources of relief rather than drugs. Additionally, they have the chance to build bonds with one another; connecting with their peers who are also in search of support. The facilities will assist with the Unsafe Housing Ordinance, a law recently put in place to provide shelter for the homeless. These programs will provide the unhoused community with sufficient housing accommodations rather than them occupying the streets of San Diego. This will result in safer and cleaner cities for citizens who reside in heavy homeless populated areas.

“Your big picture will never be a masterpiece if you ignore the tiny brushstrokes.” — Andy Andrews.

So when will the government implement these programs?

While yes, the government is ultimately responsible for implementing these programs, us as a society also need to supply assistance to the homeless community. Donating our time and effort to aid the displaced will result in the continuous cycle of homelessness being put to a cease.

“One person, one family, at a time.” Be a part of the change now.

Editor’s note: This opinion piece is one of several from students at Helix Charter High School for a project in an English 120 class. Students are asked to perform a social advocacy action for an issue they are passionate about and give a speech on it. This piece was written by student Shawntel Bowen-Russell.