Part 1/13:
The Unintended Consequences of Housing First: A Tragic Tale from Belleview, Washington
Introduction
The city of Belleview, Washington, exemplifies what critics of the "Housing First" policy argue: that simply providing housing without addressing underlying behavioral issues can lead to an increase in crime, danger, and tragedy. Recent events surrounding a fatal assault, the proliferation of criminal activity near homeless shelters, and the ongoing challenges of integrating formerly homeless individuals into the community spotlight the risks and pitfalls of ignoring necessary safeguards in pursuit of this approach.