Rancho Cucamonga, CA, United States -- Is homelessness increasing because of economic conditions, regional migration, transportation assistance programs, or other factors. Ignoring the conversation won't make the problem go away.

Rancho Cucamonga City Council District 2 candidate David VanGorden says residents throughout the city continue to raise concerns about homelessness and are increasingly asking whether regional policies adopted by larger Southern California cities could be contributing to the problem.

VanGorden, who is running against incumbent Kristine Scott and candidate DeJonae Shaw for the District 2 seat on the Rancho Cucamonga City Council, says homelessness remains one of the most frequently discussed topics during conversations with residents and local business owners.

"I cannot say with certainty why homelessness appears to be increasing in parts of Rancho Cucamonga," stated David VanGorden. "What I can say is that residents are noticing it, they're talking about it, and they want to know what their city is doing to prepare for the future."

According to VanGorden, many residents have recently become aware of transportation assistance programs used by some California cities. These programs provide homeless individuals with bus or train tickets to travel to destinations outside the city where they currently reside, often to reunite with family members, access support networks, or seek services elsewhere.

"While these programs are often described as humanitarian assistance, residents are asking whether they may also contribute to the movement of homelessness from one community to another," VanGorden said. "Those are fair questions that deserve discussion."

VanGorden noted that Southern California is preparing to host major international events, including the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games, which are expected to draw millions of visitors from around the world.

"Most residents understand that providing a few bus or train tickets will not solve a homelessness crisis involving tens of thousands of people," VanGorden continued. "The question many are asking is whether larger cities will continue looking for ways to reduce visible homelessness as international events approach, and what effect those decisions could have on neighboring communities such as Rancho Cucamonga."

According to VanGorden, even if only a small percentage of individuals participating in transportation programs ultimately relocate eastward into the Inland Empire, local leaders should be prepared to address the potential impact.

"The purpose of leadership is not to wait until a challenge arrives at your doorstep," VanGorden said. "The purpose of leadership is to recognize trends early and prepare accordingly."

VanGorden emphasized that homelessness is a complex issue involving economic hardship, mental health challenges, substance abuse, housing affordability, and access to support services. He believes Rancho Cucamonga should continue working with regional partners, nonprofit organizations, law enforcement agencies, and service providers to address the issue responsibly.

"Compassion and common sense are not mutually exclusive," VanGorden said. "We should support individuals who genuinely need help while also protecting the safety, cleanliness, and quality of life that Rancho Cucamonga residents value."

VanGorden believes residents deserve open discussions regarding homelessness and the possible impact of regional policies on local communities.

"Residents are asking reasonable questions," VanGorden concluded. "Whether homelessness is increasing because of economic conditions, regional migration, transportation assistance programs, or other factors, Rancho Cucamonga should be prepared. Ignoring the conversation won't make the problem go away."

David VanGorden is a 30-year law enforcement professional and candidate for Rancho Cucamonga City Council District 2. His campaign focuses on transparency, public safety, infrastructure, controlled growth, and preserving Rancho Cucamonga's quality of life.

For more information visit www.vangordenforrancho.com