To the editor: As someone committed to making Venice a better place for everyone, I am heartbroken for the deceased victim and survivor of the recent attacks in that community. I respect Mary Klein's courage and strength as she shares and heals. (“Two women are brutally attacked on Venice canals, forcing a debate about crime and homelessness,” June 18)
However, the second part of the June 18 Times article concerned me about its reliance on stereotypes, not supported by facts, to link homelessness and mental health to crime in general.
Additionally, affordable housing like the proposed Venice Dell Community makes communities safer. That's why more than 2,000 Venice residents and other Angelenos have publicly declared their support, and it's also why it's critical that The Times report facts rather than perpetuate the fears of the homeless people who are our neighbors and friends.
The Times is held to the highest standards to help us understand the truth about pressing issues like homelessness and public safety, so we can solve them.
Sarah Letts, Los Angeles
The writer is CEO of Hollywood Community Housing Corp., which is a development partner of Venice Dell.
