### Tijuana Merchants Aim to Rehabilitate 500 Homeless Individuals to Revitalize Tourist Areas
Tijuana, August 13th, 2024 – A substantial initiative spearheaded by the Tijuana Chamber of Commerce (Canaco) proposes the rehabilitation of 500 homeless individuals to reclaim and beautify key tourist zones in the city’s downtown area. This project, which calls for a considerable investment of around eight million pesos, has already been presented to the Tourism Secretariat and is expected to take shape under the upcoming municipal government.
Julián Palombo Saucedo, President of Canaco, emphasized that these individuals suffering from addiction and homelessness would be directed to rehabilitation centers. The main goal is their reintegration into society, which would not only benefit them but also improve the overall image and desirability of the downtown region for tourists.
“These are people suffering from illnesses, and we’re working towards ensuring they become integral members of society. Our aim is to help them move away from addiction and the negative impact it has on the community,” said Palombo Saucedo.
Merchant reports indicate a notable decline in sales during the summer season, exacerbating the need for this initiative. The project includes a collaborative approach involving the Human Rights Commission to ensure the individuals’ rights are respected throughout the process.
“The plan is to persuade them through peaceful means to voluntarily join the rehabilitation centers. We intend to involve the Human Rights, Health, and Security Commissions to ensure operations are conducted smoothly and peacefully. This is a complex issue that requires the combined efforts of everyone involved to achieve the desired outcome,” Palombo Saucedo added.
Funding for this program will be sourced from the Business Trust Fund (FIDEM), with priority given to areas such as Avenida Revolución, the tourist walkway, the International Line, and the downtown zone.
### Additional News on Tijuana’s Homelessness and Urban Development
In a similar vein of addressing homelessness and urban safety, another significant effort has been highlighted in recent news, revealing ongoing challenges and community-driven solutions aimed at rejuvenating Tijuana’s public spaces.
Local authorities have witnessed a rise in community participation in initiatives addressing homelessness. For instance, nonprofit organizations and volunteer groups have established various outreach programs aimed at delivering essential services to those in need. These include mobile clinics providing medical aid, food distribution centers, and temporary shelters to offer a safe space for vulnerable individuals.
A collective of downtown businesses has also taken proactive steps to contribute to these efforts. By organizing community clean-up events and supporting local shelters, they aim to create a more welcoming environment for visitors and residents alike.
Moreover, the local government is exploring additional long-term strategies, such as affordable housing projects and mental health services expansion, to address the root causes of homelessness. These initiatives are vital to sustaining the progress made through immediate relief measures and ensuring a durable solution for Tijuana’s homeless population.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for more updates on Tijuana’s urban development and community initiatives.