City of St. Joseph, Community Missions share response on homelessness
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The City of St. Joseph shared it is working with Community Missions and the St. Joseph Police Department to prioritize health, safety and access to supporting services for all residents, including those currently living in outdoor encampments.
In a news release sent to KQ2, the City said, "This coordinated effort is not about punishment or displacement. It is about connecting individuals to safer alternatives."
The City cited Community Missions' 24-hour shelter as an available option that offers a secure place to rest, access to basic necessities and connections to supportive services. Outreach teams and service partners are also available to provide resources and individualized assistance.
Before any encampment is cleared, the City said outreach programs make multiple efforts to engage individuals living at the site. Each person received ample notice and at least three separate contacts.
During the contacts, individuals are informed of upcoming changes, offered shelter and services and given opportunities ask questions and receive support.
The City said the encampments can present increasing health and safety risks for individuals living there, nearby neighborhoods and first responders.
"Our shared goal is to reduce those risks while ensuring people experiencing homelessness are treated with dignity, respect and compassion throughout the process," according to the news release.
The St. Joseph Police Department's role in the collaboration is focused on safety and coordination. Community Missions and partner organizations lead outreach, engagement and service connections.
The collaboration is aimed to be a more care-centered, service-led approach, rather than an enforcement-driven one.
"We recognize that homelessness is a complex issue that cannot be resolved in a single action or agency," said the City in a news release. "This work reflects an ongoing commitment to long-term solutions, including access to housing, behavioral health support and continued community partnerships."
The information comes before the St. Joseph City Council is set to adopt a resolution funding around half of over $401,000 from the city's HUD-funded Community Development Block Grants to help three social service agencies throughout St. Joseph.
The other agencies do not need City Council approval, as the amounts don't exceed $25,000.
Community Missions Emergency Shelter is allocated $100,000, the Social Welfare Board's Dental Program is allocated $66, 807 and the YWCA is allocated $54,405.
