Homelessness

Housing and Homelessness Study group

Meeting Time: every Saturday 8:30 - 9:30 pm PT

Mentor: Michael Goldman: Sunnyvale City Council

Student Leaders: Sunjay Muralitharan, Dylan Yang, Elizabeth Lee

In California alone, the homeless population numbers over 160,000. Why is this number as high as it is? What policies are being implemented or proposed to reduce this number? What further steps should be taken to tackle homelessness in our state? What can we, as students, do to make a difference in this issue? In the YAPA homelessness study group, we will strive to answer each and every one of these questions — weaving together ideas and analysis backed by data.

California, specifically, has been a leading force in decriminalizing substances, starting with the legalization of marijuana in 2016. State senators have recently introduced SB-519, in continuation, to decriminalize the possession and non-commercial sharing of certain psychedelics. In this YAPA cohort, we will analyze SB-519 and co-author an op-ed piece to present the findings and conclusions of the group members as well as those of the local community. This cohort will give members an opportunity to closely study real legislation, speak to lawmakers and representatives, and communicate with members of our community on this topic. The Drug Policy group plans to host meetings every Saturday from 8:30 - 9:30 pm PT.

Bill SB-519 was proposed to decriminalize the possession and non-commercial sharing of certain psychedelics. We will analyze Bill SB-519 and co-author an op-ed piece to present the findings and conclusions of the group members as well as those of the local community.