Homelessness is a major problem in Austin, especially in the West Campus and downtown areas. On June 1, Austin PD launched a three month pilot program for a HOST (Homeless Outreach Street Team) in these areas. It is a partnership between the Police Department, Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services, Austin Travis County Integral Care and the Downtown Austin Alliance, and the interdisciplinary team includes two police officers, two social workers and a paramedic. Read more about the program here: 

http://www.mystatesman.com/news/news/local/outreach-team-tries-new-tact-in-dealing-with-homel/nr63K/

According to information presented at a recent DACC (Downtown Austin Community Court) meeting, it has already been a big success -- within its first month, 171 individuals were pro-actively approached - all have received coordinated assessments for housing placement, 62 received medical services, 9 received psychiatric services and 2 were placed in jail. 

SafeHorns believes the HOST program will be a game changer for both the homeless AND the UT students in West Campus and strongly encourages the City of Austin to vote to extend the program for a one year trial to gain additional data on its effectiveness and support its continued existence and expansion. On August 17, the City Council will vote on the APD budget, including the HOST program. Please sign this petition to ask the City and and APD to continue the HOST program which is improving the lives and safety of everyone in the West Campus and downtown areas.

 PLEASE SIGN AND LET AUSTIN KNOW YOU SUPPORT HOST!!