Can the government involuntarily remove homeless people from the streets in cold weather? Governor Andrew Cuomo says yes. But his new plan is drawing criticism from many quarters: homeless people who want to decide their own fate; the Open Door Mission; the House of Mercy.
Our panel explores what we do about the homeless population, how to define mental illness, and what is appropriate action when it comes to helping those in need. Our guests:
- Nick Coulter, co-founder, Person Centered Housing Options, Inc.
- Al Freeman, community member
- Mike Hennessy, executive director, Open Door Mission
- Sister Grace Miller, founder, House of Mercy
- Mike Rood, director of social services, The Salvation Army of Rochester