As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on New York City, the challenges faced by homeless families are mounting. Anthony Dussard, a dedicated social worker with a nonprofit organization, has observed a concerning trend: a significant increase in drug addiction among the city's homeless population.
Dussard explains that the prolonged uncertainty and lack of resources during the pandemic have exacerbated the vulnerabilities of homeless individuals and families. \"Many are turning to substances as a coping mechanism to deal with the stress and isolation brought about by the ongoing crisis,\" he states.
The rise in drug addiction not only affects the health and well-being of those directly impacted but also strains the support systems in place. Dussard and his team are working tirelessly to provide essential services, but the demand continues to outpace the available resources. This surge underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to address both the immediate and long-term needs of homeless communities in these unprecedented times.
Reference(s):
New York social worker: Many turning to drugs as pandemic drags on
cgtn.com
