Utah Wacky Liquor Laws and How and Why the Homeless Situation is Getting Out of Control-- Ep. 108

Downtown Salt Lake City's homeless population is growing at a rapid pace. More mentally ill people are ranting in the streets in downtown; More addicts are camping in the parks and using drugs in the open; More people than ever are camping in public places. All of the "solutions" for Utah's homeless problems are not working.

In a multi-part series Utah Stories is inviting guests who on the Utah Stories Show to address the growing problem and how and why things are only becoming worse, despite the massive increases in spending.

On today's program we invited Carol Hollowell who started her own homeless long-term housing facility and shelters called "Swtichpoint" -- The unique approach Hollowell uses is to trust the people who enter the facility without security checks, and based on an honor system.

This approach runs contrary to traditional homeless shelter procedures where all of those who enter facilities are extensively searched, patted, and all belongings are checked.

Also on the program is award-winning photo-journalist Robin Pendergrass, who takes photos for the New York Times, Time Magazine, Getty Images and many others. Robin has been stationed in Utah for the past eight years and has become intimately acquainted with the homeless population by taking to the homeless and getting their stories. He recounts amazing stories about how he helped one homeless engineer get a job, and another homeless man learn to trust banks enough to deposit a collection of checks so he could get off the streets.

Both Robin and Carol clearly demonstrate that by treating our homeless individuals like humans, and by offering them some dignity and respect, this humain approach translate into people making meaningful changes in their lives to find jobs, find housing and get off the street.

In our conversation we point out several times that this is in stark contrast to the current Salt Lake City "abatement" policy.