The City and a growing number of parties will continue to support the implementation of Housing First, an evidence-based method to dramatically reduce chronic homelessness via supportive housing.  Individuals leaving shelters will need housing or they will be living back on the streets.  In the meantime, we will build upon our strong, results-oriented relationship with the Salvation Army, which already provides shelter within the city limits.

The City has negotiated an agreement with the Salvation Army which reserves six beds for individuals brought in by our Homeless Outreach Team who need the basic necessities of shelter, food and bathroom facilities.  This relationship with the Salvation Army will help to ensure beds are available and the homeless individual paired with the appropriate social services.  Very preliminary numbers show success, with approximately 75% of the individuals in this pilot program getting off the street and into supportive housing.  This early success follows our caseworkers and social services network getting 80 military veterans off city/county streets and into housing over the past 15 months.

Homelessness is not a crime.  And we, as a city, will not arrest someone for not having a home.  Should a homeless person commit a crime, however, like anyone else, they will be prosecuted.

We remain open to ideas, suggestions, and discussions with Sarasota County, and building support to fund the gap in mental health and substance abuse needs.  My colleagues from Longboat Key to Venice to North Port all strongly support the need for additional mental health funding in Sarasota County and the State of Florida.   

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