By Trend News Line 2024-03-19 09:11:42.
In a bid to tackle the issue of homelessness in New Smyrna Beach, the city’s police department has taken a new approach towards finding solutions. Police Chief Eric Feldman addressed residents at a public forum, highlighting the need for a more proactive stance in addressing the problem.
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**Community Outreach Unit: A Helping Hand for the Homeless**
Chief Feldman introduced the Community Outreach Unit (COU), which consists of Officer Vlad Ghica and mental health clinician Kimberly Jensen. This dedicated team works tirelessly to assist homeless individuals in various ways, from helping them obtain important documents and IDs to connecting them with mental health counseling services.
The COU follows a co-responder model, which focuses on engaging with the homeless population, providing crisis intervention, mental health support, and ongoing case management. Their aim is to offer practical assistance and support to those in need, ultimately helping them find stable housing solutions.
**Enforcement and Collaboration: A Multi-Faceted Approach**
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While enforcement measures are sometimes necessary, Chief Feldman emphasized the importance of combining enforcement with progressive programs. The COU works closely with local organisations such as the New Smyrna Beach Housing Authority and God’s Bathhouse to provide essential services to homeless residents.
One of the key goals of the COU is to reduce the number of arrests related to homelessness, particularly for trespassing violations. By collaborating with residents and offering support services, the team aims to address the root causes of homelessness and prevent individuals from being caught in the cycle of arrests.
**Partnership with First Step Shelter: A Beacon of Hope**
New Smyrna Beach has also partnered with First Step Shelter in Daytona Beach to offer temporary housing and rehabilitation services to homeless individuals. This partnership provides a long-term plan for those willing to receive assistance, offering a pathway out of homelessness.
So far, 20 homeless individuals from New Smyrna Beach have been taken to the shelter’s “safe zone,” with two individuals successfully admitted to the shelter. While challenges remain in convincing some homeless individuals to accept help, Chief Feldman stressed the importance of addressing underlying mental health conditions.
**Addressing Residents’ Concerns: A Community Effort**
At the public forum, residents raised concerns about homeless encampments near Temple Street and Jungle Road, highlighting issues such as trash accumulation and personal safety. Officer Ghica assured residents that the department is actively addressing these concerns, including placing warning signs in the area to deter camping activity.
Looking ahead, Chief Feldman emphasized the need for continued collaboration with community organisations and a focus on transitional housing solutions. By working together and seeking partnerships, the city aims to provide long-term support for homeless individuals and address the root causes of homelessness.
In conclusion, New Smyrna Beach’s police department is taking a proactive and compassionate approach towards tackling homelessness in the city. Through the efforts of the Community Outreach Unit and partnerships with organisations like First Step Shelter, the city is making strides towards providing a brighter future for those in need..
– Homelessness concerns in NSB
– Residents and police share latest efforts to address homelessness in NSB.
