Duval Times

Residents of Jacksonville can report homeless encampments or individuals living on the streets through several channels. They may call 904-630-CITY (2489), visit myjax.custhelp.com, or email myjax@custhelp.com. Reports are directed to the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department’s Providing Assistance to the Homeless (JFRD PATH) Team for outreach.

The City of Jacksonville has been enforcing a new state law banning public camping since October. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) reported 529 warnings, 86 arrests, and 27 notices to appear as of January 3. Since late November, the JFRD PATH Team has been conducting continuous outreach to connect the homeless community with resources. Over 900 contacts have been made, with 60 individuals taken to Trinity Rescue Mission shelter.

In July, the Mayor’s Office released a homelessness plan that included funding for shelter bed expansion in its proposed budget. In November, $1.3 million was approved by the City Council for creating 96 new shelter beds across three area shelters. Currently, all 44 beds at Trinity Rescue Mission are occupied; next, 26 beds will open at Salvation Army and another 26 at City Rescue Mission once those fill up.

A “carrot and stick” model is being used to assist more unhoused individuals than those being arrested. For example, an individual who had previously refused shelter finally accepted it after receiving a warning from JSO and is now receiving necessary medical treatment and services.

Healthcare resources are available through Healthlink Jax Initiative, offering telehealth services for uninsured patients via JFRD PATH Team and area shelters. Uninsured Duval County residents can access primary care by calling 904-925-CARE (2273).

Interactions with JFRD PATH reveal that over 90% of those assisted are not from Jacksonville. The Homeward Bound program has helped return 93 individuals to their home communities since October, allowing them proximity to family support while focusing city resources on local residents.

Discussions continue regarding solutions for Beaches and Baldwin municipalities' homeless issues. Although their police departments enforce ordinances complying with state law independently, citywide outreach efforts remain countywide in scope.

Mayor Deegan's administration prioritizes collaboration and problem-solving in addressing homelessness across the county. A comprehensive approach includes a released 12-point plan backed by $10 million allocated in the mayor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2024-2025 aimed at reducing homelessness significantly in Jacksonville.