Jacksonville: CITY OF JACKSONVILLE UPDATE ON HOMELESS OUTREACH EFFORTS
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~ Jacksonville, FL - The City of Jacksonville has implemented new measures to address the issue of homelessness in the community. With the recent passing of a state law banning public camping, the city has taken steps to enforce this law and provide resources for those experiencing homelessness.

Residents who come across a homeless encampment or individual living on the streets can report it by calling 904-630-CITY (2489), visiting myjax.custhelp.com, or emailing myjax@custhelp.com. This information will be directed to the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department's Providing Assistance to the Homeless (JFRD PATH) Team for outreach.

Since October, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO) has been enforcing the new state law and as of January 3rd, there have been 529 warnings, 86 arrests, and 27 notices to appear. In addition to enforcement, the JFRD PATH Team has been conducting 24/7 outreach to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with resources. So far, over 900 contacts have been made and 60 individuals have been taken to Trinity Rescue Mission shelter.

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The city's approach to addressing homelessness also includes a "carrot and stick" model where individuals are given warnings before facing arrest. This approach has proven successful in getting unhoused individuals off the streets and into shelters where they can receive necessary medical treatment and wraparound services.

In July, Mayor Deegan's office released a comprehensive plan for addressing homelessness which included funding for shelter bed expansion. In November, City Council passed $1.3 million to create 96 new shelter beds at three area shelters. Currently, all 44 beds at Trinity Rescue Mission are occupied with plans to open an additional 26 beds at Salvation Army followed by another 26 at City Rescue Mission.

To address healthcare needs within the homeless community, the city has made its Healthlink Jax Initiative available to JFRD PATH Team and area shelters. This telehealth service ensures that uninsured patients receive primary care instead of costly emergency room visits.

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According to data from the JFRD PATH Team, over 90% of interactions are with individuals who are not from Jacksonville. To assist these individuals in returning to their home communities, the city has implemented the Homeward Bound program which has helped 93 individuals since October. This program is funded through JSO and administered by Downtown Vision, Inc.

The city is also working with Beaches municipalities to find solutions for homelessness in those areas. While their police departments are responsible for enforcing their own ordinances, the city's outreach efforts and JFRD PATH team activities were always meant to be countywide.

Moving forward, Mayor Deegan's administration remains committed to collaboration and problem-solving when it comes to addressing homelessness. With a 12-point plan released and $10 million allocated in the proposed budget for homelessness, the city is taking bold action to reduce this issue in Jacksonville. The team stands ready to work with all stakeholders to implement necessary resources and make a significant impact on homelessness in the community.

Filed Under: Government, City
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