Real Solutions for Homelessness Require Compassion, Not Penalties

With the recent Executive Order, “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets” which threatens to criminalize homelessness, a brighter spotlight shines on our work, the importance of it, and the need for those connected to us to continue by our side. 

In a new opinion piece published this week in the Detroit News, PFC President and CEO Fr. Tim McCabe offers a powerful reminder: we cannot punish our way out of a humanitarian crisis. Instead, we must invest in solutions that restore dignity, heal trauma, and provide people with the tools they need to thrive.

Fr. Tim shares the example of our Bridge Housing Campus, which opened nearly one year ago. There, residents find not only safe shelter but also trauma-informed care, mental health support, addiction recovery, job training, and—just as importantly—encouragement, compassion, and love. It’s a model that doesn’t just hide the unsheltered from view, but helps individuals build sustainable futures and lean into their full potential.

Homelessness is complex, and there are no quick fixes. But there are real, humane, and effective solutions.

Read Fr. Tim’s full piece here, and join us in reimagining a better, more compassionate path forward.