West Montgomery Times

Pennsylvania Senator Tracy Pennycuick recently voiced her concerns about the ongoing homelessness crisis in Montgomery County. In a letter to the editor, she highlighted the urgent need for more proactive measures and accountability from county officials.

The senator's comments came in response to an article published on May 3rd, titled “Winder Looking to Take Bold Action to Mitigate Housing, Homelessness Crisis in Montgomery County”. While she commended the county's continued engagement with stakeholders, she emphasized that it was time for action.

Senator Pennycuick shared her experience of visiting a homeless encampment in Pottstown and participating in a clean-up effort. She met individuals who were in dire need of various social services ranging from drug and alcohol counseling to mental health services and employment assistance.

Recent data reveals that Montgomery County has 334 people sleeping in transitional housing facilities and 101 people without any shelter at all. The senator expressed disappointment upon learning that the county's homeless outreach efforts do not include regular visits to homeless encampments or shelters.

She argued that the county needs to provide more than just blankets and warming shelters. There is a pressing need for full-time social workers on-site and at warming centers during evening hours as well. The issue, she pointed out, extends beyond regular working hours.

In her efforts to address this issue, Senator Pennycuick recently wrote a letter opposing the establishment of any homeless encampment at SCI Phoenix. She urged both the County Commissioners and the state Department of Corrections not merely to relocate the problem but to address it effectively.

Despite engaging with the county about homelessness since her election as state Senator two years ago, she expressed frustration over the lack of progress made so far. Despite receiving millions of dollars over several years specifically for addressing this issue, there has been no record of how these funds are being spent.

Senator Pennycuick called for immediate action from the county before another winter arrives, adding that visiting the homeless encampment was a heart-wrenching experience. She acknowledged the efforts of many organizations and individuals but emphasized that the county needs to take more decisive action.

Senator Pennycuick represents Pennsylvania's 24th District, which includes Montgomery and Berks Counties.