WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (July 23, 2020) – As part of its continued efforts to address the issue of homelessness, the City of West Palm Beach has implemented the Homeless Activity Reporter by way of its Housing and Development (HCD) department. The web-based tool allows residents and homeless individuals to document when and where help is needed. Users are encouraged to inform when assistance from the City or community resources are needed.
When using the web-based Homeless Activity Reporter, users may report locations for homeless individuals, details about witnessed activities, additional observations and interactions. Within 24 hours of receipt of the report, HCD staff will begin working to remedy the situation and follow up with the submitter by phone or email to inform them on how their concern is being addressed. (Any and all emergencies should be reported to 9-1-1.)
The Homeless Activity Reporter can be found on the City’s webpage under the “I Want To” tab. Alternately, just visit: www.wpb.org/har.
“The Homeless Activity Reporter is one of many tactics being implemented in our city to address the issue of homelessness,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James. “This technology will help us to better connect the homeless with much needed programs and services while, at the same time, giving residents a voice in addressing neighborhood concerns. This is one of the ways we are working to improve the quality of life for all residents.”
This assistance tool is the latest addition to the Mayor’s strategic initiative to help address homelessness in West Palm Beach. In December 2019, the City hired a homeless services coordinator to spearhead all homelessness initiatives and community partnerships. These efforts include an on-street mental health team, which meets individuals on-site throughout the City, as well as new and ongoing affordable housing and financial assistance programs offered by HCD. Additionally, at the request of Mayor James, the HCD is working to create 300 units of affordable and workforce housing units in three years.
“Homelessness is a complex issue that requires multiple innovative approaches and solutions to address,” said HCD Director Jennifer Ferriol. “The City has and will continue to capitalize on existing opportunities as we navigate through the many complicated systemic challenges”.
To learn more about the City’s HCD department, visit https://www.wpb.org/government/housing-community-development. If you would like to speak with someone regarding on ongoing homelessness concern, contact Marcus Laws, Homeless Services Coordinator, at (561) 822-1250 (TTY: 800-955-8771).
