Editor,
It was very disappointing to read that HATS (Hope and Area Transition Society) have failed by having to close the “warm zone” for the homeless.
The closing of the warm center comes at a dangerous cold spell for the homeless. It does not take social workers to man a warming centre. HATS has been ineffective towards the homeless and housing for a long time.
Last year they spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to buy an office building, so they could have fancy new offices. Nothing for the homeless and nothing for housing for the seniors or disabled who are in great need of housing. HATS did not need to spend all that grant money on an expensive office building.
I do think there is mismanagement or very bad prioritizing at HATS. It appears to get the money but its allocations are not helping Hope.
I believe HATS needs an audit and transparency. It could be Hope is asking too much of HATS or they cannot handle the workload. Closing the “warm center” during the coldest weather of the year shows HATS is not capable.
Sincerely,
Theresa McCormick
Read more coverage about the “warm zone” and the situation of Hope’s homeless population online at hopestandard.com.
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