The Oceanfront Initiative, a pilot program to enhance outreach to homeless individuals, was launched on July 14. Six peer outreach specialists, contracted through the Judeo-Christian Outreach Center and under the supervision of the City of Virginia Beach Department of Human Services, will provide a presence at “hot spots” on the boardwalk Sunday through Wednesday. The peer specialists, easily recognized by their pink shirts, will be trained to work in collaboration with the Virginia Beach Police Department. They will provide emergency assistance such as food and clothing and assertively engage homeless individuals in enhanced services designed to move them off the boardwalk and into housing and better opportunities.
- Zero’s Subs, 632 Virginia Beach Blvd.
- Hope in the Upper Room, 1709 Pacific Ave.
- Human Services PATH Program, 302 22nd St.
- Oceanfront Library, 700 Virginia Beach Blvd.
- Lighthouse Center, 825 18th St.
The following triage centers will serve as assessment sites
and provide enhanced services:
The Oceanfront Initiative was made possible through a
collaborative effort of city departments -- Human Services, Police, Housing and
Libraries -- nonprofit service providers and faith organizations.
The program will run through Oct. 31 and will work closely
with resort businesses, the Hotel/Motel Association, Resort Civic League and
the Oceanfront Enhancement Committee. The committee will meet weekly to assess
progress, make necessary adjustments and provide future recommendations.
Comments
Post a Comment