“…[T]he coordinated entry system is based on how traumatizing your life has been.” San Francisco’s Primary Assessment system makes many people experiencing homelessness feel like permanent housing is unattainable. Applicants are asked intrusive questions about sensitive topics and are scored based on their answers. Many find it to be a system that forces you to share your traumas for a chance at housing assistance; allegedly, refusing to answer questions — even for legitimate reasons — adversely affects their score and their eligibility for assistance. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
