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Introduction

The purpose of this web-case is to investigate the complicated issue of homelessness in Brockton, Massachusetts, and to offer complete policy and planning solutions based on fair sustainability principles. The policy/planning areas of attention include affordable housing, support services, tackling systemic disparities, and encouraging environmental sustainability and urban growth.

.The Bigger PictureMy goal is to create a comprehensive plan to address homelessness in Brockton that not only takes care of the homeless population’s immediate needs but also fosters sustainability in the social, economic, and environmental spheres by incorporating lessons learned from successful models from cities like LA, Austin, and Portland, as well as from creative housing solutions like tiny housing communities and sustainable housing rights movements. How can Brockton, Massachusetts, effectively address homelessness through a holistic approach rooted in sustainability principles?

Despite concerted efforts to address homelessness in brockton, the issue persists, with between 60% and 70% of individuals accessing shelter services experiencing temporary homelessness, often relying on support for a few months. Alarmingly, approximately 20% to 30% fall into the category of “chronically homeless,” highlighting the need for sustained intervention and tailored solutions to address their specific needs. With approximately 130 individuals seeking refuge each night, totaling around 1,000 individuals annually, the shelter (Father Bill’s & MainSpring) serves as a vital lifeline for those in need. Notably, the fastest-growing demographic seeking assistance comprises individuals aged 18 to 24, reflecting the complex challenges faced by young adults in the community.There are a totals 2 homeless shelters in Brockton that’s can be said to functioning, with homelessness population being 1000 or more that is not okay.

Brockton’s Director of Social Services, Jazmine Bradsher, acknowledges that While estimates suggest between 50 and 60 individuals live on the streets long-term, the true figure remains elusive due to the transient nature of homelessness and the inherent difficulties in tracking individuals without stable housing.

Homelessness disproportionately impacts marginalized groups, such as persons of color, LGBTQ+ people, and those with disabilities. This reflects larger systemic disparities in access to housing, healthcare, education, and employment. By approaching homelessness from a justice and equity perspective, we can attempt to break down structural obstacles and create a more inclusive and equitable society in which everyone has equal chances and access to resources. Likewise, tackling homelessness in Brockton is critical for staying within ecosystem boundaries. Homelessness can have serious environmental consequences, including the spread of improvised shelters, increased trash, and strain on urban ecosystems. By providing permanent housing and support services, we may reduce these environmental impacts and promote more sustainable urban growth patterns. This includes not only meeting the urgent needs of people who are homeless but also adopting long-term solutions that prioritize environmental sustainability and resilience. Furthermore, efforts focused on job training, mental health support, and community inclusion can offer comprehensive answers to homelessness. Homelessness connects to the four requirements of fair sustainability by guaranteeing equity and justice, acknowledging cultural and economic diversity, promoting participatory governance, and addressing the quality of life and health of homeless individuals. Some tensions related to addressing homelessness include resource allocation, stigma/discrimination, Nimbyism, systemic barriers, and racism, all of which require comprehensive and inclusive approaches to overcome.

Doughnut economics, according to Kate Raworth, is an idea for a successful existence that encourages living within our planetary means. According to her understanding, individuals are left lacking the fundamental necessities of existence, which are found in the center, such as those who do not have access to enough food, shelter, money, education, etc. The idea behind the doughnut is the realization that our consumption of Earth’s resources is straining ecological boundaries and reducing the life support systems that sustain us. Raworth states that because the country places a high priority on economic growth, the systems that support society and life as we know it—such as healthy oceans, fertile soil, and vibrant ecosystems—are being gradually weakened and worn down. The global doughnut basically symbolizes the knowledge that no one in society should be left suffering and also serves as a reminder to live within our limits. The term “doughnut” describes a graphic depiction of this paradigm, in which the inner ring stands for societal foundations (needs for human well-being) and the outer ring for planetary bounds (limits of the environment). The intention is to make sure that the “safe and just space for humanity” that these two rings define is a place where humanity may flourish. Raworth’s model, which outlines the environmental parameters that human activity must stay within to prevent ecological collapse, has a planetary doughnut as its outer ring. These boundaries include things like biodiversity loss, air and water pollution, climate change, and other planetary limitations that, if crossed, might cause irreparable harm to the ecosystem. The purpose of the Brockton Webcase Project is to address homelessness in the context of doughnut economics by ensuring that social justice and environmental sustainability are taken into account in addition to homelessness alleviation. This is how the project may adhere to these guidelines: Remaining Within Planetary Boundaries: The initiative integrates sustainable approaches to combat homelessness, including encouraging the development of energy-efficient housing, cutting down on waste, and lowering the carbon emissions brought on by the building and upkeep of homes. The initiative can help ensure that we don’t overshoot the globe by using eco-friendly methods. Creating Social Foundations: The fundamental goal of my initiative is to create social foundations by giving people access to necessities like healthcare, education, and secure and stable housing. The project’s focus on vulnerable populations’ wellbeing aligns with the doughnut’s inner ring, which stands for social foundations. Maintaining Environmental Sustainability While Balancing Human Well-Being: With a focus on social justice and ecological boundaries, the initiative aims to strike a balance between human well-being and environmental sustainability. To reduce urban growth and preserve green spaces, it might entail turning abandoned structures or brownfield lands into affordable housing. Doughnut economics emphasizes the need for comprehensive, egalitarian, and sustainable methods of economic and social development. In this way, the webcase project on homelessness in Brockton seeks to solve a critical social issue while upholding these ideals.

Key Themes

The key themes/issues addressed in this web-case include:

JUST Housing solutions

Provision Support Services and Resources in brockton

The importance of addressing homelessness

JUST Sustainability housing  

built on wheels, these tiny houses are easily moved and adaptablean example of a tiny house.

https://www.communityhomelesssolutions.org