Essex Officers Reach Out to Homeless Individuals

From Baltimore County: Officers in the Essex Precinct have started an outreach to the homeless. The outreach program is the idea of Essex Precinct Commander, Captain Andre Davis. Captain Davis was concerned about the welfare of the homeless during the winter months. He also knew that it is not uncommon for officers to get complaints about homeless persons or their encampments. He needed a way to provide the homeless with guidance towards resources and options. The answer was a partnership with local homeless assistance groups and local clergy.

At 11 a.m. this morning, officers from the Essex Precinct Community Outreach Team gathered together along with members of Prologue, Healthcare for the Homeless, Veterans Affairs, as well as pastors and congregants from local churches. They traveled to several homeless encampments in the Essex Precinct area and provided the homeless persons that they encountered with some personal supplies as well as options for available shelter and other services. Pastors and church members prayed with the homeless persons.

Police had transportation available in case any of the homeless encountered wanted to go to a shelter. None were transported at that time.

There are several shelters in Baltimore County that offer services beyond mere shelter for the night. Police want to guide the homeless towards these shelters and resources. More information is available here.

People seeking shelter services for themselves or another person should call 410-853-3000 and select option 2.

This is just the beginning. Captain Davis plans to have more homeless outreach events in the future.

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