WAMU: Debate On Replacing D.C. Shelter Finds That Bathrooms Are A Crucial Question

Plans are in motion to build new shelters for the homeless in DC to replace DC General. But there is much debate surrounding the style of the buildings as well as privacy concerns. 

Children’s Law Center Executive Director Judith Sandalow testified at a recent D.C. Council hearing about what to consider when designing a safe place for homeless families. 

“Those of (you) making the decision probably have not lived in a homeless shelter, I certainly haven’t,” she said.

The Council should be sensitive to what homeless families go through, she said.

“It’s not like a college dorm, it’s not like summer camp,” Sandalow said. “We have families and children who have experienced a great deal of trauma.”

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