A dedicated group of individuals has taken a crucial step forward in addressing homelessness in Grant County. Led by Patricia Cano, a former professor and mother of Silver City District 4 Town Councilor Guadalupe Cano, the Citizens Task Force on Homelessness in Grant County has been formed to tackle the challenges faced by our community.

The task force aims to protect the rights and meet the needs of both individuals without permanent shelter and other citizens, including property owners, renters, and merchants. Its primary goal is to develop a comprehensive plan that will provide recommendations and request funding from local municipal governments, the county government, the state Legislature, the national delegation, and private organizations. To ensure a well-rounded approach, the task force will involve various groups such as the SPIN shelter, the Gospel Mission, the ACLU, law enforcement, and many more.

It’s encouraging to see elected officials and community leaders actively participating in this initiative. Councilor Cano, Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, Senator Siah Correa Hemphill, Representative Luis Terrazas, Grant County Treasurer Patrick Cohn, and Silver City Town Manager Alex Brown have all pledged their support and willingness to work with the task force. This collaborative effort is a promising sign that we are committed to finding effective solutions.

At a recent town hall on homelessness organized by Councilor Cano, concerns were raised about the SPIN shelter and its impact on the Brewer Hill neighborhood. While it’s essential to acknowledge these concerns, it’s equally important to approach the issue with compassion and a focus on finding solutions.

Many speakers shared their experiences and frustrations regarding changes in their community. Some expressed concern about security and the apparent lack of control over individuals at the shelter. It’s crucial to address these valid concerns to ensure the safety and well-being of all community members.

However, it’s also essential to recognize the vital role that organizations like SPIN play in supporting homeless individuals. Joann Salcido, SPIN board president, emphasized the importance of community support and the need for a task force to tackle this issue comprehensively. SPIN board member Mitch Barsh raised thought-provoking questions about funding, the location of a facility for the homeless, and who will take responsibility for its operation. These questions should be addressed in the task force’s plan to create a viable and acceptable solution for everyone involved.

It’s worth noting that homelessness affects not only individuals but also our schools. Silver Schools Superintendent William Hawkins highlighted the district’s experience in dealing with homelessness among students and pledged the district’s resources to support the task force’s efforts. This collaboration between the school district and the task force demonstrates a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue at hand.

The formation of the Citizens Task Force on Homelessness in Grant County is a significant step forward. It shows our dedication to preserving the quality of life for all residents, promoting tourism, and supporting our business community. By working together and involving diverse stakeholders, we can develop sustainable solutions that address homelessness while ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.

I encourage all individuals interested in making a difference to join the task force and contribute their perspectives and ideas. Contact Patricia Cano at gccitizentaskforce@gmail.com or 575-590-3016 to get involved.

Let us come together as a community, united in our efforts to address homelessness in Silver City. By doing so, we can create a brighter future for all our residents and maintain the vibrant and inclusive community we cherish.