Hundreds of concerned Dallas citizens accepted Keep Dallas Safe’s invitation to attend an event this past Sunday where various public officials discussed the issues of homelessness and panhandling. On site were representatives from the Office of Homeless Solutions, Community Court, Dallas Police Department, and multiple city council members.
The main topic of discussion was the new city policy that discourages panhandling by offering resources to those engaged in the activity. If the person refuses the services, they could be “fined” by Community Court which will come to them in the streets. The fines are paid through various community service avenues with an example being given of an offender working on a property that had been in code violation.
These are great first steps, but the success of this program will come down to enforcement. That is where Keep Dallas Safe’s ongoing efforts to catalogue, and report illegal encampments really makes a difference. If the city makes sure to follow up on and enforce the new rules with the majority of panhandlers, we could definitely see a change for the better.
Officials at the meeting also confirmed that residents should continue to report illegal encampments to Dallas 311. Office of Homeless Solutions shared that these camps are responsible for a boom in Hepatitis within the city. Keep Dallas Safe has successfully been engaged in an ongoing effort to catalogue and notify the city of such camps and encourages everyone to help out in making sure these dangerous locations are cleaned up.
Keep Dallas Safe is currently looking for neighborhood volunteers to help report these illegal camps. Are you sick of the homeless camps in your neighborhood park or street? Are you tired of panhandlers harassing you on your way to work. Sign up to report illegal camps and panhandling. It’s easy and makes a difference. Keep Dallas Safe has successfully led the charge to dismantle dozens of camps already. If you’re interested in getting involved, email [email protected]
The Keep Dallas Safe team will continue to push for those experiencing homelessness to not be left out in the streets and to get the help they deserve.