Editorial was a misinterpretation

To the editor:

While I always enjoy a sanctimonious editorial from The Riverdale Press, I could not sit idly by as you misinterpret my position on this very serious issue ("Keep homeless shelter open," May 7). I, in concept with Project Renewal, over the last several months made repeated pleas to the Department of Homeless services (DHS) for additional resources for security for the facility on Bronx Boulevard. I was sufficiently concerned about the burden being shouldered by the 47th precinct that I went to see the Commissioner of the Department of Homeless Services personally and he relayed my concerns about the shelter.

I believe that it is irresponsible and does a disservice to the high-need population served by Project Renewal when homeless New Yorkers are sent to a shelter without the proper wraparound services, including security. DHS has not demonstrated any commitment to providing adequate services to the men housed in this shelter. As we have seen, without adequate resources the potential for tragedy is all too real.

Until I see a tangible change in policy and a commensurate allocation of resources, I have no confidence that the Bronx Boulevard shelter can be run safely. I am able to sleep at night knowing that I have been a partner and advocate in the effort to seek that the homeless are treated humanely.

Councilman Andrew Cohen