introduction research case studies context site water stop summary appendix
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In addition to the safety, security, and health risks of numerous facilities within the current shelter system, another series of qualities makes them largely unsuccessful. The rigid rule structure of many shelters, designed to eliminate alcohol or drug abuse and other illegal activities from the premises, is highly restrictive to individuals who wish to spend their evenings socializing, working, job searching, or participating other activities. According to homeless advocate, Eric Sheptock, people frequently have to make difficult decisions, such as, check into a shelter at 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, or work one’s scheduled hours at job from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. If the person chooses to earn the money, he sleeps on the street. If he checks into a shelter, he loses the money, and possibly even the job. (Sheptock, 2010). Eric also states that “we
should see housing as a human right. Housing should not be treated as a commodity sold to the highest bidder. It should be...treated as a necessity to be afforded to everyone” (Sheptock, 2010). The emergency shelter system is not the sole approach to housing. Housing units range from single-person sleeping units scattered in a city, tent cities, SRO’s, and large shelters. The diverse types of people living on the streets, much like the diverse housed populations, cannot all be placed into the same “one-size-fits-all” housing approach. The book Designing for the Homeless: Architecture That Works explains that in order for shelters to succeed, they must be much more than just a bed in a space. A sense of belonging is key to becoming part of a community and working toward a more stable life. Shelters must fit into the city CONTEXT and add to the local quality of life. They must reach farther than just the immediate clients served. A shelter cannot succeed alone. It must connect with a system of transitional housing, long term housing, and support networks such as public space, local businesses, and community organizations.