Shave And A Haircut: Law Enforcement Reaches Out To Help Homeless

TAMPA, FL -- For the homeless, a shower and a shave is a luxury.

So Tampa Bay's homeless population felt downright pampered on Tuesday when the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Homeless Initiative teamed up with local vendors and other law enforcement agencies to provide a range of services to homeless residents.

The Tampa Community Homeless Outreach event held at the University Mall at 2200 E. Fowler
Ave. brought vendors and governmental agencies together to assist the area's homeless. Nearly 100 homeless residents were treated to free flu shots and health screenings, mobile showers, blankets, backpacks loaded with hygiene items, clothing and shoes, pet care, haircuts and shaves, mental health and substance abuse treatment, veteran services, county and city services, food stamps, hot meals and voter registration assistance.

"This event brings members of our community together to get much-needed services all in one location," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our goal is to help people ultimately transition from the street to a more permanent and fruitful position. Every step of the way matters toward making that a reality and our deputies go a long way to helping in every way they can."

Taking part in the HCSO Homeless Initiative were members of the Tampa Police Department, Tampa International Airport Police Department and Temple Terrace Police Department.

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