We, the undersigned organizations committed to addressing homelessness in our community, are deeply saddened and shaken by the tragic loss of two young lives in Detroit this week. The death of these children is a reminder of the urgent and life-threatening circumstances faced by individuals and families experiencing homelessness, particularly in the harsh winter months. This heartbreaking tragedy highlights the critical need for accessible, timely, and comprehensive housing and support services for those experiencing homelessness.
As we reflect on this devastating situation, we recognize the importance of ensuring that no individual or family is left without help, especially during periods of extreme vulnerability. In Marquette County, we are committed to providing shelter, support, and resources to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. We work tirelessly to build a robust safety net for those in need and advocate for the essential services that are needed to prevent such tragedies.
This incident also emphasizes the need for a proactive and responsive system of care, one that prioritizes outreach, follow-up, and long-term solutions for families at risk. While we mourn the loss of these children, we are also reminded of the responsibility we share as a community to increase our efforts and improve how we engage with families in crisis.
We urge our local government, community partners, and fellow service providers to continue working together, improve coordination, and ensure that everyone facing homelessness has access to a warm, safe, and supportive place to stay. The lives of families depend on our collective commitment to addressing this issue with urgency, compassion, and the necessary resources.
Our hearts go out to the family, and we remain committed to preventing such tragedies in our own community by strengthening our homelessness response systems. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact 2-1-1 or 906-228-6522 ext. 207.
As we reflect on this devastating situation, we recognize the importance of ensuring that no individual or family is left without help, especially during periods of extreme vulnerability. In Marquette County, we are committed to providing shelter, support, and resources to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. We work tirelessly to build a robust safety net for those in need and advocate for the essential services that are needed to prevent such tragedies.
This incident also emphasizes the need for a proactive and responsive system of care, one that prioritizes outreach, follow-up, and long-term solutions for families at risk. While we mourn the loss of these children, we are also reminded of the responsibility we share as a community to increase our efforts and improve how we engage with families in crisis.
We urge our local government, community partners, and fellow service providers to continue working together, improve coordination, and ensure that everyone facing homelessness has access to a warm, safe, and supportive place to stay. The lives of families depend on our collective commitment to addressing this issue with urgency, compassion, and the necessary resources.
Our hearts go out to the family, and we remain committed to preventing such tragedies in our own community by strengthening our homelessness response systems. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact 2-1-1 or 906-228-6522 ext. 207.
Sincerely,
Chelsie Wilkinson, Room at the Inn
Brent Clark, Janzen House
Jennine Frazier, The Women's Center
Michelle LaJoie, Community Action Alger Marquette
Bill Brutto, The Salvation Army Marquette County, MI