January 30, 2026

Letters to the Editor

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Reader: ICC story reminds us of importance of addressing affordable housing

Thank you to the Indiana Catholic Conference (ICC) for its attention to the crucial issue of housing in the Jan. 23 issue of The Criterion. They note two pieces of proposed legislation: Senate Bill 285 and House Bill 1001.

SB 285 would result in people being fined or jailed for “street camping.” The intent of the bill is to convince people to accept services or a trip to a shelter instead of being arrested.

While I believe this bill has good intentions and mental health is a very important issue, the root cause of homelessness is lack of affordable housing. See the book Homelessness is a Housing Problem by Gregg Colburn for the data.

A much better approach than arresting homeless people is being taken by the Streets to Home Indy initiative, in which people get both housing and access to critical services. The city of Indianapolis, along with the philanthropic, business and faith communities are part of this effort.

As I write this letter, nearly 100 people have been moved from the street to supportive housing, and four homeless camps have been closed by this program.

I am very happy that my parish, Immaculate Heart of Mary in Indianapolis, has done much to help and we would be glad to have others help as well. 

You can learn more at the website indymultifaith.org, or e-mail me at jsl2206@outlook.com.

HB 1001 looks much more promising.  Few bills are “perfect,” but this bill’s goal is more much-needed housing that people can afford.

- Scott Lowe | Indianapolis

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