More than 200 participants, including more than 160 community volunteers, stayed up late on January 27 to count Santa Monica�s homeless population in the 2010 Homeless Count.
�I really enjoyed being a part of the count and hope that we can promote the work in ways that make a difference for our most vulnerable citizens,� Social Services Commissioner Nancy Geshke wrote. Many resident volunteers commented on the pride they felt in being part of a caring community.
Council members Richard Bloom and Bobby Shriver, Police Chief Tim Jackman, and Fire Chief Jim Hone greeted volunteers along with representatives from nonprofits, businesses, members of the faith community, city commissions, first responders, community service groups and residents; all of whom took part in the count to gauge the number of people on Santa Monica�s streets.
Santa Monica�s Homeless Count data is used to measure the city�s successes and to identify challenges and help coordinate strategies and resources for ending homelessness. The count is also critical to ensure that the city gets its fair share of federal, state and local resources to provide much needed services.
The count took place between 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. and covered every census tract in the city and all streets, alleys, parks and doorways were included.
Results from the 2010 Count will be presented at the February 22, 2010 Social Services Commission meeting beginning at 7 p.m. (Location will be announced soon.)
Last year, Santa Monica partnered with the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) on a complete, city-wide count of homeless people. Data from the 2009 Santa Monica Homeless Count has helped the city demonstrate a reduction in homelessness (8 percent from 2007 to 2009) and the tangible effects of our Action Plan to Address Homelessness, local programs and initiatives.
For more information, visit The City of Santa Monica�s Action Plan on Homelessness
STAFF REPORT
Santa Monica MirrorMirrorStaff@smmirror.com
