DEPARTMENT: Human Services and San Antonio Police Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Melody Woosley and Chief William McManus
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
Update on Homeless Encampment Outreach and Panhandling
SUMMARY:
An update on Homeless Encampment Outreach and Panhandling
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The Department of Human Services (DHS) and San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) will present an update on recent efforts to reduce homeless encampments across the community and an update regarding efforts to address panhandling.
City of San Antonio investments support strategies to address the challenges of homelessness through targeted investments in homeless prevention, shelter, food, counseling, street outreach, mental health, and rapid re-housing. As a part of these continued efforts, DHS and SAPD coordinate with multiple City departments, the South Alamo Regional Alliance for the Homeless (SARAH), government organizations, the faith based community, and the private sector.
DHS serves as the coordinating department in managing City homeless initiatives and investments. This includes oversight of homeless related initiatives and contracts; participation in SARAH; coordination of the Mayors Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness; and homeless policy research and analysis.
SAPD plays a key role in addressing the challenges of homelessness including operating teams that connect homeless to services and housing, reunifies them with family, or places them in the criminal justice system. The HOPE and IMPACT Teams have engaged 1,624 homeless downtown and in the surrounding areas since December 2015. SAPD also works in collaboration with the business community, non-profits, and neighborhoods throughout the City to implement strategies that address the underlying issues of panhandling.
ISSUE:
This briefing provides updates on recent efforts to address Homeless Encampments and Panhandling.
ALTERNATIVES:
This item is for briefing...
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