Philadelphia, PA, July 19, 2024 – Mental Health Partnerships strongly opposes the recent Supreme Court decision in the case of CITY OF GRANTS PASS, OREGON v. JOHNSON ET AL., which allows cities to arrest individuals experiencing homelessness. This ruling marks a significant step backward in the fight for human rights and social justice.

The Supreme Court's decision to permit the criminalization of homelessness exacerbates the struggles of our most vulnerable populations. It fails to address the root causes of homelessness, such as mental health issues, lack of affordable housing, and inadequate support services, and instead punishes those who need our compassion and assistance the most.

"This ruling criminalizes poverty and targets our most vulnerable citizens, making it even more difficult for them to find the support they need. We call for compassionate solutions that address the root causes of homelessness and provide genuine support," Dr. Jeannine L. Lisitski, Ph.D., President and CEO of Mental Health Partnerships, stated.

As of the 2023 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, 653,104 people were experiencing homelessness in the United States, a 12% increase from the previous year and the highest annual increase since data collection began in 2007. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this rise in homelessness has been widespread, affecting urban, suburban, and rural areas alike.

The city reported 4,725 homeless individuals in 2023; however, according to the Philadelphia Citizen, activists say the real numbers are slightly higher.

“In my career, I've witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of homelessness on individuals and families. One poignant experience was when I encountered a man who had been abandoned by the prison system and left to die in an alley outside a shelter,” Dr. Lisitski explained. “This moment reinforced the urgent need for compassionate advocacy and support for those experiencing homelessness. Just as Mental Health Partnerships has a rich history of breaking new ground in mental health care, we must continue to lead the charge in addressing homelessness with empathy and action.”