A New York City plan to open a "low-barrier" homeless shelter attached to an elementary school has ignited outrage among parents who fear for their children's safety.
The city of New York is facing backlash over its decision to open a "low-barrier" homeless shelter in a building attached to an elementary school in Lower Manhattan. The move has sparked outrage among parents who are concerned about the potential risks it poses to their children.
Parent Kenny Grant, whose son is set to enter kindergarten at the Peck Slip School, expressed his concerns on "Fox & Friends Weekend."
NYC Plans 'Low-Barrier' Homeless Shelter Next to Elementary School, Sparking Outrage
"You just start to wonder, what was the thought process? Who's checking boxes? Who's placing these locations within the [Department of Social Services]? Who's doing their due diligence to find out where they should go? There's not even a certain amount of feet. It's attached to the building of this elementary school," Grant said.
Many parents have expressed outrage over the decision, which came to their attention last week. They have received little warning about the shelter and fear that the individuals housed there could pose a threat to their children.
NYC Plans 'Low-Barrier' Homeless Shelter Next to Elementary School, Sparking Outrage
One father whose daughter attends pre-K at the school told the New York Post that he is concerned about mental illnesses among the population, as those with mental illnesses can sometimes be "aggressive." Another father of a third-grader expressed frustration that the idea for the shelter was pushed through "when no one [was] around."
The New York City Department of Social Services has attempted to reassure parents, stating that "facilities like this have been instrumental in our efforts to move more New Yorkers off the streets and subways and into shelter and permanent housing." The department also promised to have security teams and monitors in place to ensure the safety of the residents and the children at the school.
NYC Plans 'Low-Barrier' Homeless Shelter Next to Elementary School, Sparking Outrage
Despite the city's assurances, many parents remain unconvinced. They argue that the potential risks outweigh the benefits and that the location of the shelter is inappropriate.
"These individuals… [not all of them are] bad, some of these are good people who need a home, need a safe haven or place to lay their head, but they do become part of the community. They'll be in your open spaces," Grant added.
NYC Plans 'Low-Barrier' Homeless Shelter Next to Elementary School, Sparking Outrage
The city has stated that it is committed to maintaining open lines of communication with the community and addressing any concerns that arise. However, parents are skeptical and believe that their concerns are not being taken seriously.
The controversy over the shelter is expected to continue as parents demand more information and assurances from the city. The outcome of the situation remains uncertain, but it highlights the challenges of balancing the needs of the homeless with the safety and well-being of children.
