WOONSOCKET, RI – City officials said they are attempting to address the growing homelessness crisis in Woonsocket with a focus on balancing public safety and humane solutions. At a press conference Wednesday Mayor Christopher Beauchamp and the Woonsocket Community Partnership Task Force released a new report highlighting the challenges and potential approaches to tackling homelessness in the city. Mayor Beauchamp said that while a new federal law allows cities to remove homeless individuals from public spaces, Woonsocket’s focus is on offering real alternatives for those displaced. “And I know this new federal law that came out that we can remove people, right? But my goal is to remove people but have a solution where they can go and that’s part of that law also,” said. The task force’s report raised concerns about the root causes of homelessness in the city, questioning whether they stem from mental health issues, substance abuse, or the daily stress of not knowing where to find food and shelter. Despite these uncertainties, the city aid it is committed to finding solutions that extend beyond simply removing people from public spaces, with the mayor emphasizing  the need for a comprehensive approach. One of the key solutions proposed is the “Dignity Bus,” a mobile shelter designed to provide temporary housing for the homeless population. The bus is expected to operate for nine-and-a half-months, though city officials have not yet announced a specific start date for the service. While the timeline for the Dignity Bus remains unclear, Mayor Beauchamp said that the city’s focus will remain on offering “compassionate solutions” for those in need, ensuring they have a safe place to go once they’re removed from public spaces. Categories: News, Rhode Island, Woonsocket