HONOLULU (KHON2) — A neighborhood in Kalihi said it’s been an ongoing issue for years. They’ve been needing long-term solutions for a homeless encampment on the banks of a canal and the City said help is coming in the next few months.
When you’re driving past the canal through Middle Street, the sights are hard to miss.
“It’s a public health concern for the person that’s there,” stated Kalihi Neighborhood Board Chair, Amanda Ybanez. “They might be suffering from substance abuse, mental health issues. Who in their right mind would want to live like this?”
Ybanez said the homeless encampments in her district have increased leading to issues like trash buildup. Even with the City’s periodic clean-ups, the same encampments end up coming back. Items collected from the sweep are kept in storage for 30 days, which gives individuals the chance to pick up any belongings.
According to Honolulu Homeless Coordinator Sam Moku, the City plans to build more shelters in the next few months. There would be up to 100 shelter beds available for those experiencing homelessness for however long they need to get back on their feet.