The President of E Pluribus University and founder of thrivela.org, Perry Goldberg, joins host Robert Strock to discuss current efforts to identify solutions and barriers to the growing homelessness problem in California. Current solutions involve building affordable housing where land runs at a premium and laws, regulations, and objections of neighbors add to the expense and time it takes to develop the properties. The results are not enough housing for a growing vulnerable population. Both Goldberg and Strock point toward a pervasive false perception of the majority of the unsheltered being addicted, mentally ill, or unable to contribute to society.
A better understanding of who these people are and the natural value they have as fellow human beings lies at the heart of the problem. In addition, there's a great need to change and adapt laws that allow for affordable, scalable housing options like tiny homes that include a small kitchenette and shower. Goldberg discusses his ongoing efforts to develop unused farmland as a cooperative farm where residents would live and work using regenerative agriculture methods to support themselves and the surrounding community. Educating the public to the realities and true demographics of the unsheltered is a start. Laws that favor affordable housing can reduce the barriers to a greater variety of housing options. Finally, dignified, affordable housing solutions are already potentially available, but until attitudes and laws change, they go unused.
View the transcription and listen to the episode at The Global Bridge Foundation
