Salem To Hold Public Dialogue On Homelessness

SALEM, MA – A public dialogue scheduled for late July takes aim at two major objectives: Discuss a strategy to assist Salem's homeless population, and address some of the "nuisance-like behavior" of homeless individuals in and around the city, according to a press release.

The public dialogue will be on Thursday July 27, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at St. Joseph's Hall at 160 Derby St. A statement from Mayor Kim Driscoll's office said that Salem city and police officials, representatives from Lifebridge, North Shore Community Health Center, North Shore Community Action Program, and the regional Workforce Investment Board have been working on potential solutions for the growing transient homeless population.

The coalition is working on a plan to bring more case workers and community outreach services to the homeless population in Salem, and a jobs services component that would help match available skills with jobs.

"While Salem has been a regional leader in providing shelter and supportive housing options for homeless individuals, there is still a shortage of available housing units, as well as supportive services necessary to keep individuals off the streets long term," read the press release.

The press release noted that some panhandlers report bringing in more than $200 per day.

"Unfortunately, too often these dollars are used to support behaviors that lead to nuisances in public spaces," said the release. "The final piece of the plan consists of a public education campaign that will alert residents and visitors to this concern and identify an alternative giving strategy to help support services for Salem’s transient population."

The city is inviting residents, business owners, community groups, homeless individuals, and the general public to the dialogue.

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