The recent investment of nearly $2.2 million by St. Paul and Ramsey County aimed at expanding shelter capacity before clearing Pig’s Eye Park has raised concerns. Despite the funding, only seven individuals reportedly utilized the new beds. City Council President Rebecca Noecker highlighted the importance of understanding funding impacts, expressing disappointment in the low shelter uptake and emphasizing the need for long-term systemic solutions rather than short-term “Band-Aids.”
Catholic Charities, which received part of the funding, added 49 new beds, and its Chief Program Officer, Keith Kozerski, confirmed that demand at their connected daytime center has increased. The organization aims to serve people with minimal barriers, noting that additional beds could help alleviate potential winter homelessness.
No additional clearing of encampments is scheduled currently, and both city and county officials acknowledge the ongoing challenge of homelessness, calling for broader collaboration and investment in housing solutions.
