No one should be criminalized for lacking a safe place to sleep or for utilizing public space. Housing Works stands firmly against the seizure and destruction of property, forced hospitalization, or arrests of homeless individuals who seek refuge on streets and subways due to the failures of the shelter system. NYPD sweeps that destroy people’s personal belongings only deepen instability and heighten vulnerability, increasing risks like overdose death. Forced hospitalizations reduce trust in our healthcare system. We call instead for compassionate, long-term housing and healthcare solutions that provide support and dignity.