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One of the most effective ways of determining what programs and services are most needed by homeless people is to ask them. One-to-one chats are conducted by a group known as the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT). Human Services has three such teams whose members go to places throughout the county where homeless people are known to congregate.

In September 2008, for example, HOT members visited 10 different locations, including parks and convenience stores in downtown West Palm Beach, Westgate, Lake Worth and Pahokee. Over a one-week period, 74 homeless individuals were observed and asked about their situation. Approximately one-third of them agreed to an assessment, and nine were placed in emergency housing or referred for additional services. All eight families contacted by HOT members, including 17 children, were able to get off the streets.

The friendly, non-threatening discussions build trust and rapport, enabling members to complete comprehensive intake and assessment. Then, if the subjects are willing, arrangements are made with the Homeless Assessment Center or for medical treatment, crisis stabilization or emergency shelter.

Nothing is forced; it is always the person’s choice whether he or she wishes to take advantage of public assistance. But the first step is to stop and ask, “How are you doing?”

Members of HOT at “Stephanie’s Family,” a local half-way house (l-r, front row): Human Services Director Claudia Tuck, Tina Goldsmith of the Oakwood Center of the Palm Beaches, Casework Supervisor Wendy Olds, and Luz Mark of the Comprehensive Alcoholism Rehabilitation Program (CARP); (back row) Human Services Operations Supervisor Dessie Caraccio, Social Worker Juanita Odell, Hampton Brown of the Oakwood Center of the Palm Beaches, Rodney Gurttier of CARP, Human Services Casework Supervisor Kim Parnett, and Senior Social Worker Sue Jalm.

Hampton Brown is interviewed for a Channel 20 special on homelessness.	Hampton Brown of the Oakwood Center (center) and Rodney Gurttier of CARP chat with camper Victor Santiago.
Luz Mark of CARP (Comprehensive Alcoholism Rehabilitation Program).	Most campers like to stay mobile.
Social worker Sue Jalm conducts an assessment.	Social workers Sue Jalm and Juanita Odell.
The Homeless Outreach team (HOT) visits a homeless camp site off Military Trail in Lake Worth.

• Homeless Outreach Team