New Street Outreach Team Close 96 Encampments in First 10 Days

Spokane's new street outreach teams have made significant strides, clearing 96 encampments within just 12 days of their launch. Many individuals accepted connections to behavioral health and housing services, marking a positive trend in addressing homelessness. Mayor Brown remarked on the early success and stressed the importance of effective coordination among various service providers for sustainable change. Jonathan Mallahan, President of Catholic Charities Housing Ventures, expressed optimism, stating that fewer individuals are forced to sleep outdoors due to these efforts. The outreach teams are strategically positioned in all four Spokane Police Department precincts, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the city.

These initiatives align with broader efforts to tackle homelessness in Spokane. To further enhance outreach, Spokane 311 will launch a new reporting feature next week, allowing residents to report individuals in need of assistance. This feature aims to enable near real-time dispatch of outreach teams to connect vulnerable populations with necessary services.