Bloomberg: Homeless Shelters "More Pleasurable" than Before

Says it's why people are staying longer. No comments on their dining options.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg said Thursday there is less reason for people in New York City homeless shelters to leave the system because "it is a much more pleasurable experience" than in the past, a remark that drew criticism from advocates who accused the mayor of being out of touch.

Bloomberg, speaking at a news conference in Queens, was responding to a question about The Wall Street Journal's report that the average length of stay for families with children in city homeless shelters increased more than 30% during the fiscal year that ended June 30.