Duane on Homelessness

3/6/26
  1. The principle of subsidiarity dictates that one should start with the smallest and closest authority when tackling a problem. Families, who are that ideal closest authority, lack the resources needed to support their relatives.
  2. Families of the homeless should be provided with a reunification program for their unhoused relatives. Mental health support should be expanded to provide stronger psychological support for the unhoused. This should include mobile-based care when the person can’t (or won’t) reliably access clinics.
  3. Family members who would need to dedicate time for the homeless members will require financial resources (such as stipends/payments) and a faster, clearer process for conservatorship when the person is unable to make safe decisions for themselves.
  4. Bottom line: The government should support the family as the primary support system when a loved one becomes homeless. Policies should strengthen (and not undermine) the family’s authority and capacity to help their relatives.
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