Beyond the statistics, the crisis at MIA reveals the human faces of those struggling with homelessness. Many individuals find themselves in a desperate situation, seeking refuge in an unfamiliar environment. The airport, with its constant flow of people and 24-hour operations, offers a temporary escape from the harsh realities of life on the streets.
Chairman of the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, Ron Book said, “We have a plan.”
Book said people experiencing homelessness blend in with travelers stranded at MIA. The Miami-Dade Homeless Trust plans to send outreach workers to spend six hours daily, multiple days of the week convincing people to shelter somewhere safe outside the airport.
A Strain on Resources
The presence of a growing homeless population at MIA places a significant strain on airport resources. Security personnel must allocate additional time and attention to monitor the situation, and cleaning crews face increased challenges in maintaining a sanitary environment. Moreover, the negative perception created by the visible presence of homelessness can impact tourism and business travel, affecting the airport’s overall economic health.
“Folks look for a refuge,” Book said. “Our shelters are full. We’re trying to address the issues. We have a very large shortage of housing. That’s why the homeless trust has been working to create housing opportunities by buying buildings, using a term called adaptive re-use, and converting those buildings into opportunities for housing.”
Ron Book explains that the county Homeless Trust does not have control over several housing projects, which contributes to the county’s struggle to move unsheltered people out of the airport. Still, he expects shelters to make room for those crowds this week and beyond.
A Call for Comprehensive Solutions
Addressing the homelessness crisis at MIA requires a multifaceted approach that tackles both immediate needs and long-term solutions. Increasing the availability of shelter beds, expanding mental health services, and providing job training and employment opportunities are essential steps. Additionally, investing in affordable housing initiatives and strengthening support systems for individuals transitioning out of homelessness are crucial to preventing future crises.
A Community-Wide Effort
The challenge of homelessness is not one that can be solved by government agencies alone. It requires a collaborative effort involving non-profit organizations, businesses, and community members. By working together, we can create a more compassionate and supportive environment for those experiencing homelessness and build a stronger, more resilient community for all.
“We believe within the next 24 months our community will reach and be the first urban community in the country to end unhoused homelessness,” Ron Book said. In the next 45 to 60 days, the Trust hopes to have 109 new housing units if the group gets county commission approval to take control of an old hotel in Cutler Bay.
