The City of Sacramento has reported significant strides in addressing homelessness, with over 2,000 cases managed within the week of November 10-16, 2023. The latest update from the City’s Incident Management Team (IMT) details a proactive approach to assist unsheltered individuals, reflecting the city’s commitment to tackling this ongoing crisis.
During this week, Sacramento’s 311 customer service received a total of 544 calls related to homelessness. These inquiries resulted in the opening of 2,096 cases, highlighting the complexity of the issue as multiple cases can arise from a single call. The IMT noted that 2,466 cases were successfully closed during the same period, indicating progress in resolving issues or achieving compliance among those experiencing homelessness.
Outreach efforts were also a focal point of the report. The Department of Community Response’s staff enrolled 74 individuals into databases that facilitate access to local shelters and essential resources. Furthermore, the report highlighted that 17 people found housing placements at either the City’s Roseville Road campus or the Outreach and Engagement Center (OEC) as of November 18, 2023.
Despite these positive developments, capacity challenges remain a significant concern. The Roseville Road campus reported no available Pallet homes or trailers, while only two spots were open at the OEC. City-funded shelters averaged approximately 13 openings, underscoring the urgent need for additional housing solutions.
In an effort to address the visible impact of homelessness in the city, Sacramento’s teams undertook waste removal initiatives, successfully clearing 50,140 pounds of trash from affected areas. This cleanup is part of a broader strategy to improve public spaces and overall community health.
Sacramento’s commitment to transparency is evident through its data dashboard, which allows the public to monitor the weekly progress of the IMT since September 2023. This tool provides cumulative figures for outreach, compliance, and cleanup efforts, reinforcing the city’s accountability in managing the homelessness crisis.
As Sacramento navigates the complexities of homelessness, the city’s proactive measures and ongoing outreach efforts reflect a dedicated approach to finding sustainable solutions for its most vulnerable residents.
