The winter emergency shelters in Anchorage, Alaska, continue to face significant challenges despite efforts by the city and third-party oversight organizations. A recent report from Restorative Reentry Services (RRS) highlights issues such as insufficient food supplies, inadequate transportation options, laundry problems, and bedbug infestations at various shelter locations. These recurring difficulties have been a long-standing concern for both homeless clients and service providers, casting a light on the ongoing struggles within the city’s shelter system.
One of the most pressing issues identified is the inadequacy of food provision. Despite a $1.7 million contract with a company to deliver three meals per day to approximately 530 shelter residents, many clients report not receiving enough food. The CEO of RRS, Cathleen McLaughlin, noted that portion sizes, caloric intake, and meal quality do not meet federal standards. At the Alex Hotel, where around 230 people stay nightly, clients frequently ask for seconds, indicating their dissatisfaction with the meal portions.
The city has contracted ESS Support Services Worldwide to address these food-related concerns. According to Terry McIntosh, a director at the company, they prepare and package about 1,600 meals daily, adhering strictly to guidelines. However, Alexis Johnson, director of strategy for Henning Inc., which operates three non-congregate shelters, pointed out that the USDA guidelines are more suited for children than adults, resulting in smaller portions that fail to satisfy most residents.
Beyond food shortages, transportation remains another critical issue. Shelter operators are required to provide bus passes to clients who need them, but at the 200-bed congregate shelter on E. 56th Avenue, these passes often run out. This shortage leaves some clients unable to attend medical appointments or get to work, exacerbating their already challenging circumstances.
In addition to logistical challenges, hygiene and safety concerns also plague the shelters. At the 56th Avenue location, operated by Catholic Social Services (CSS), there have been complaints about missing or improperly laundered belongings. CSS sends out clients' items for cleaning, but this process has led to numerous issues. Furthermore, reports indicate widespread bedbug and lice infestations, which the organization is now addressing with heat treatment tents.
Client safety is another area of concern. Some residents have expressed worries about theft and inconsistent disciplinary actions by staff. Staff members reportedly impose varying "time-out" penalties for infractions, leading to perceptions of unfairness among clients. Farina Brown, the mayor’s special assistant for homelessness and health, acknowledged these issues and stated that the city is working on bringing more outside services directly to the shelters to mitigate theft and improve overall safety.
Despite these challenges, the city's shelters remain full each night, underscoring the urgent need for effective solutions. In response to unpredictable weather conditions, an additional overnight warming area has been opened, capable of accommodating up to 60 people on colder nights. The city is committed to improving the quality of care for its homeless population, but much work remains to be done to address the systemic issues highlighted by the RRS reports.