Part of the problem with #DefundPolice concept is the failure of existing social service providers, even when very well funded. Compared to DHS (NYC Homeless Services) the NYPD is a goddamned model of transparency, accountability, efficiency, and value for dollar spent.
Put cynically, NYC is spending $2 billion a year ($30,000 annually for every homeless man woman and child) so people can profit homelessness. The city rains dollar on "non-profit" service providers who perpetuate the problem and kickback pennies to politicians.
"60,000 or 78,604 people, it's not going down. Despite (or because of) billions spend on "social services."
"Federal Data Show Nearly 80,000 Homeless in New York City; Number is about 15,000 more than the figure used by Mayor Bill de Blasio."
wsj.com/articles/feder…
"Federal Data Show Nearly 80,000 Homeless in New York City; Number is about 15,000 more than the figure used by Mayor Bill de Blasio."
wsj.com/articles/feder…
Also of note is there are <4,000 people living on the streets of NYC. I would guess that is lot fewer than most New Yorkers would guess. (That population is also incredibly service resistant, as a group.)
Imagine what could be accomplished if $500 million were put to "rental assistance & housing placement," $500 million to temporary aid/help/shelter, and $500 million to "prevention/aftercare." Problem solved! Plus we'd actually still be saving $500 million.
