UPDATE: The city of Kalamazoo, MI has spent over $11,506 in the past two years to provide one-way bus rides for unhoused individuals, a program that is drawing mixed reactions from local advocates. Since December 2023, the program has facilitated travel for 73 people to destinations as far as Las Vegas and Florida.
This controversial initiative, part of the “Finding Your Way Home” program, aims to assist those without housing by connecting them with family or support systems. However, the approach has sparked debate over whether it adequately addresses the underlying issues of homelessness in Kalamazoo.
Authorities confirm that the program is designed to treat participants with dignity. According to Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) Sgt. Amil Alwan, “It is a matter of helping people get back to their support system, to a familiar place that is safe for them.” Yet, local advocates like Judy Lowery express concerns about the management and effectiveness of the program.
Lowery, who has worked closely with unhoused individuals, argues that while the effort is commendable, it may not be the best solution. “I think it puts both the police and the individuals that are unhoused in a precarious situation,” she stated, suggesting that an organization like Integrated Services of Kalamazoo might be more suitable to oversee such initiatives.
The city commission recently approved an additional $15,000 for the program, emphasizing its commitment to supporting vulnerable community members. However, critics argue that simply providing transportation is not enough. Joana Babcock, another local advocate, highlights that unhoused individuals often require more comprehensive services, such as rehabilitation and housing support. “If cities invested in robust and comprehensive, supportive or wrap-around service, it would actually save them lots of money,” she said.
The program has faced scrutiny for potentially forcing individuals out of the city, as some feel they have no choice but to accept bus tickets under pressure from city policies. This raises ethical concerns regarding the treatment of unhoused individuals, especially in light of restrictions on sleeping in parks and accessing basic amenities.
Despite the program’s intentions, the journey can be arduous. A couple who took a bus from Kalamazoo to Virginia described their experience as chaotic, taking days due to multiple stops and unsafe areas. “We do not have enough housing for all of our neighbors who are unhoused,” Lowery emphasized, highlighting the severity of the housing crisis in Kalamazoo.
As the debate continues, KDPS maintains that the program is about facilitating safe relocations, but many advocates urge for a more sustainable approach. The next steps remain uncertain, with many questioning the long-term impact of such measures on the community’s unhoused population.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story. For those interested in Kalamazoo-area news, visit MLive’s local news page for the latest developments.