Letter

Cold weather shelter need

Mayor Garner,

I was disheartened today to hear of the dismissal of plans for the Cold Weather Shelter here in KCK. As one of the coldest days of the year approaches us, that leaves one of our most vulnerable populations at risk.

From my understanding, you had an assumption that community groups were in the midst of conversation with these plans. I hope you’ve been made aware that on the contrary, multiple community organizations, community leaders, as well as members have been involved in the planning process for not only last years’ shelter, but this year as well. Many of these persons have signed letters of support for the initiative.

Through the efforts of the shelter during the coldest times of the year, this has not only saved countless lives, but also has proven to decrease hospitalizations, and arrests which can directly be correlated with houseless persons’ who are seeking shelter.

My question is, what is the premise behind the removal of the project? Since there is not a homeless shelter here in Wyandotte County, do you have other plans to help provide support during this time?

I hope you can see the benefit of not only saving lives during the coldest time of the year, but also the need for an established safe place for homeless individuals to rest.

Amber Adams
Kansas City, Kansas