Focusing on Oahu, Hawaii- write a 1 page-double spaced letter to the mayor of Oahu (Rick Blangiardi-Oahu Mayor)
Briefly address the homeless and lack of housing crisis and briefly address how this problem became more of a challenge during the Covid-19 pandemic, and still remains problematic
Letter should briefly state the crisis and then discuss ideas as to how the mayor can help advocate and invoke change
Letter should be stated in own words and use citations only if necessary (statistics or data)
Letter to the Mayor
Student Name
University
Course
Professor Name
Date
Mayor Rick Blangiardi,
530 South King Street, Room 300
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
RE: Addressing Homelessness and the Housing Crisis
Dear Sir,
I am writing this letter to inform you about homelessness, a serious issue among the people of Oahu. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the homelessness rate increased by more than 5 percent and Oahu currently has the highest number of homeless people in Hawaii. More than 60 percent of these people are unsheltered and families represent at least 20 percent of the homeless population. The housing crisis is very visible since many tents have been put up in parks and other public areas. Lack of housing continues to be an issue even as local and state governments continue planning for economic recovery in the post-pandemic period (Lyte, 2022).
Based on the statistics, it is clear that action needs to be taken to improve access to housing for Oahu residents. As the mayor, you have the power to advocate on behalf of your people and invoke change. I recommend that you stay informed about the issue by collecting real-time data on the number of homeless people. This data should be analyzed and used to develop measurable goals for solving homelessness. Additionally, partnerships with other public leaders, including elected leaders and the law enforcement system when working towards improving housing is important. Finally, aligning affordable housing strategies and resources can help improve access to housing.
Eliminating homelessness is not possible without involving the members of the community. As a resident of Oahu, I ask that you engage with the people to fully understand their needs.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Student name
References
Lyte, B. (2022). Homeless Survey Reveals Pandemic Effects On Neighbor Islands. Honolulu Civil Beat. https://www.civilbeat.org/2022/04/homeless-survey-reveals-pandemic-effects-on-neighbor-islands/#