Orlando and Wichita Approve Homeless Shelters

Orlando leaders have paused their plan to establish a new 250-bed homeless shelter on West Washington Street due to significant community opposition, citing a lack of shared burden from other neighborhoods. While the city initially aimed to mitigate a 700-bed shortage, questions about alternative locations and strategies remain unanswered. Orlando's 'Accelerate Orlando' initiative, funded by $58 million from the American Rescue Plan, aims to address homelessness, including projects like the Palm Gardens Apartments. Meanwhile, Wichita City Council has approved the purchase of the former Park Elementary school for $1 to convert it into an emergency winter shelter and Multi-Agency Center, using $2.25 million from ARPA funds. This facility is set to open by Thanksgiving, providing essential services to the unhoused population. Both cities are grappling with rising homelessness rates, highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions.