Seismic Changes Needed to Address Homelessness in Utah, Experts Say
Randy Shumway and Joseph Grenny emphasized the need for profound shifts in addressing homelessness during a Solutions Utah town hall held Thursday night. Shumway, founder of Cicero Group and chair of Utah Homeless Services, alongside Grenny, co-founder of The Other Side Academy, shared insights with University of Utah students and community members on evolving strategies to combat homelessness in light of rising numbers.
According to the state’s Office of Homeless Services, 2023 saw 9,838 Utahns experiencing homelessness for the first time, marking a 9% increase from the previous year. Shumway highlighted a troubling trend, noting that the chronically homeless population has surged from 14% a decade ago to over 27% today, cautioning that this could reach the mid-30s within a few years.
"This is not a bed crisis, this is a human crisis," Shumway stated, advocating for a holistic approach rather than just constructing more shelters. He emphasized the critical need for trauma-informed care, mental health services, and human dignity, arguing for success to be defined by meaningful recovery rather than merely providing food and shelter.
Grenny offered a contrasting view by focusing on the micro-level of individual interactions. He criticized current nonprofit models and insisted on fostering self-efficacy through meaningful relationships rather than quick fixes. Emphasizing personal accountability, Grenny shared success stories from The Other Side Academy to illustrate the importance of helping individuals find their path rather than doing the work for them.
As Utah lawmakers gear up for the 2025 legislative session, the focus on human dignity persists, with discussions expected to prioritize integrated solutions that address not only housing but also underlying issues such as mental health and substance abuse. Rep. Tyler Clancy highlighted the need for a "Know By Name" system, aiming to personalize care and connect individuals to the resources they truly need.
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Photo credit www.deseret.com
