New Street Outreach Team Close 96 Encampments in First 10 Days

Spokane's new street outreach teams, formed in collaboration with Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington, made significant strides by clearing 96 encampments within their first 12 days. While many of the sites visited did not have residents, the outreach efforts connected numerous individuals with vital behavioral health and housing services. Mayor Brown described the teams as essential to the city's strategy for sustainable change, emphasizing the need for improved coordination among service providers. Jonathan Mallahan, President of Catholic Charities Housing Ventures, expressed optimism about the outreach teams' impact, citing fewer individuals forced to live outdoors. The teams are deployed across all four precincts of the Spokane Police Department, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Additionally, Spokane 311 plans to launch a new outreach reporting feature next week, allowing residents to report individuals in need of assistance. This initiative aims to facilitate near real-time dispatch of outreach teams to those requiring help. The concerted outreach efforts reflect a proactive approach to addressing homelessness in Spokane.