As San Jose ramps up sweeps, advocates mobilize to protect homeless residents

San Jose advocates mobilize as city officials ramp up efforts to clear homeless encampments, including a new policy to arrest individuals refusing shelter. The Rapid Engagement Support Team (REST) assists unhoused residents during sweeps, providing essential resources and legal support. REST, inspired by the Rapid Response Network, aims to secure funding for a hotline to report police activity during sweeps. Mayor Matt Mahan's initiative has sparked concern over the safety and well-being of the homeless population, particularly as the city plans to clear RV encampments at Columbus Park, where over 80 vehicles are parked. Outreach teams will engage with affected individuals to help them connect with shelter and services as the sweeps approach.

The urgency is heightened by the extreme heat conditions expected, with city policy pausing operations when temperatures reach 88 degrees. Last year, nearly 200 homeless individuals died in the county, illustrating the critical need for intervention. Advocates emphasize the importance of providing immediate support to prevent further tragedies among the unhoused community.