New Street Outreach Team Close 96 Encampments in First 10 Days

Spokane's new street outreach teams have effectively closed 96 encampments within their first 12 days of operation, significantly impacting the local homeless population. This initiative, a partnership between the City of Spokane and Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington, aims to connect the city's most vulnerable individuals with vital services like housing and behavioral health support. Mayor Brown expressed satisfaction with the early results, emphasizing the need for improved coordination among various service providers to achieve long-term solutions. Jonathan Mallahan, President of Catholic Charities Housing Ventures, stated that these outreach efforts have led to fewer individuals living outdoors. The outreach teams are strategically placed in all four precincts of the Spokane Police Department, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the city.

In addition, Spokane 311 is set to launch a new reporting feature that allows the public to report individuals in need of assistance, facilitating near real-time dispatch of outreach teams. This proactive approach is part of a broader strategy to tackle homelessness in Spokane. As these initiatives continue, city officials aim to build sustainable solutions through effective collaboration.