Interim Chief of Police Robin Henderson | City of Austin website
Interim Chief of Police Robin Henderson | City of Austin website
The City of Austin's latest Housing-focused Encampment Assistance Link (HEAL) Initiative effort has provided shelter for 50 people experiencing homelessness. According to City of Austin Homeless Strategy Officer David Gray, "HEAL Initiatives compassionately, effectively and comprehensively address the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness, fostering a sense of empowerment, dignity, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives." Gray also highlighted the success of the program, stating, "Since the program’s inception, half of all clients that exited shelters through HEAL transitioned to permanent housing solutions."
The recent HEAL Initiative effort focused on areas near the East Cesar Chavez Street corridor between U.S. Interstate 35 and North Pleasant Valley Road. A total of 43 people and two pets were welcomed to the Northbridge and Southbridge shelters, while an additional seven individuals are now guests at the Marshalling Yard Emergency Shelter.
The HEAL Initiative, approved by the City Council in February 2021, aims to address homelessness and return public spaces to their intended uses. Since its launch in June 2021, 737 individuals have transitioned from high-risk encampments to the City's bridge shelters.
The successful sheltering and resolution of encampments is a collaborative effort involving the City's Homeless Strategy Office, the Homeless Outreach Street Team (HOST), Austin Resource Recovery, Austin Public Library, Austin Police Department, and community partners.
To learn more about homelessness in Austin, visit www.austintexas.gov/homelessness.
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