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LHIA Update continued

The Reunification Program assisted a total of 29 individuals and issues. During 2021, the Broward County Clerk of Courts
three families to return to their relatives outside the city. As of reported 58 cases filed through the Community Court. In
November, the unit has contacted 1,112 homeless neighbors addition to those with court cases, the Community Court
this year. In conjunction with the Task Force for Ending Program served approximately 137 walk-in clients. The
Homelessness, the FLPD Homeless Outreach Officers made a network provided about 670 onsite goods and services,
total of 9,056 contacts which resulted in an additional 1,333 including meals, haircuts, hygiene kits, clothing, bus passes,
placements in 2021. masks, and other items. In addition to the needed onsite
The Unit is also developing an officer training program to services, approximately 291 referrals to community services
increase support for the homeless. Partnering with the City’s and treatment providers, such as mental health, housing,
Neighbor Support (NS) Division, this program is an substance abuse, employment, and skills training were
innovative approach to handling certain low-level provided to those seeking assistance. Along with the City,
misdemeanor crimes and violations of municipal ordinances. Broward County has numerous resources available for people
The FLPD Homeless Outreach Unit supports the Community experiencing homelessness, including three Homeless
Court’s weekly efforts to offer individuals experiencing Assistance Centers (HAC) located in Fort Lauderdale,
homelessness a chance to engage in treatment and social Pompano and Hollywood. Services include emergency
services. The 17th Judicial Circuit Community Court at Fort housing, food, clothing and intensive case management.
Lauderdale City Hall is a program that addresses the needs of
at-large, homeless, petty crime and municipal ordinance Ed Rebholz, President
offenders and focuses on the root causes of each defendant’s Lauderdale Harbors Improvement Association

34 rio vista civic association • www.riovistaonline.com