New Street Outreach Team Close 96 Encampments in First 10 Days

Spokane's new street outreach teams made significant progress by clearing 96 encampments in just 12 days. These teams, launched in collaboration with Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington, visited all active case sites, finding that most were unoccupied but successfully connecting many individuals to housing and behavioral health services. Mayor Brown remarked on the outreach teams as critical components of the city's strategy to combat homelessness, emphasizing the need for effective partnerships among social service providers. Jonathan Mallahan from Catholic Charities noted that the initiative has led to fewer people living outdoors. The outreach teams are strategically positioned in all four precincts of the Spokane Police Department, enhancing their reach within the community.

Next week, Spokane 311 will roll out a new feature allowing the public to report individuals in need, facilitating near real-time dispatch of outreach teams. This initiative aims to improve the city's response to homelessness and increase support for vulnerable populations. The early success of these outreach efforts demonstrates a commitment to sustainable change in Spokane.