Support Keeping Flathead Warming Center from Caitlyn O'ConnorJudi Funk
From: Caitlyn O'Connor <caitlyn.b.oconnor@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, May 17, 2024 2:39 PM
To: Kalispell Meetings Public Comment
Subject: EXTERNAL Support keeping Flathead Warming Center
Dear Kalispell Mayor and City Council,
I am writing urging that the Kalispell City Council NOT revoke the Flathead Warming Center permit, and
instead spend time and energy collaborating with the many different organizations working to SOLVE the
housing crisis, mental health and substance use crisis. Revoking the Flathead Warming Center's permit
may placate the neighbors for a short time, win some political favor, but in the end this will harm our
Valley as a whole.
As a concerned member of society, I firmly believe that ensuring access to shelter is not only a matter of
compassion but also a fundamental human right. Every individual, regardless of their circumstances,
deserves a safe and dignified place to call home. Homelessness can affect anyone, often due to
circumstances beyond their control such as the insane rise in housing costs, job loss, economic
hardship, or mental health issues. It is imperative that we, as a compassionate and just society, provide
support and resources to those experiencing homelessness.
The Flathead Warming Center serves as a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable members of our
community. It offers not only a roof over their heads but also access to essential services such as meals,
medical care, and job assistance. By providing these resources, we not only address the immediate
needs of individuals experiencing homelessness but also work towards long-term solutions to help them
rebuild their lives.
I urge you to consider the profound impact that closing the homeless shelter would have on the lives of
those who rely on it for support and assistance. Instead of shutting down this vital resource, I encourage
you to explore ways to improve and expand its services, ensuring that it remains a beacon of hope for
those in need.
We are not the first area to see rising homelessness, and the demonization of homelessness allows
people to separate themselves from the very issues that need to and can be solved. The Council should
instead lobby their state and federal representatives to push for policies that increase housing supply,
increase access to mental health and addiction services in the Flathead Valley! Stand up for SOLUTIONS
and say NO to revoking the Flathead Warming Center's permit.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will make the right decision in support of basic
human rights and the well-being of our community.
Sincerely,
Caitlyn O'Connor