Homeless Initiatives

Welcome to the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Homeless Initiatives webpage. This webpage provides information on the current projects and initiatives the City is working on to mitigate the hardships and community effects of homelessness. Addressing homelessness is a complex challenge that requires a multi-faceted approach. Here in Fort Lauderdale, our dedicated Homeless Outreach Team, part of the Police Department, is actively working every day to connect with our homeless population. Our efforts focus on encouraging individuals to utilize the array of social services and housing opportunities available. Our goal is to address the root causes of homelessness compassionately and effectively, rather than merely displacing those affected.

Florida’s House Bill 1365, effective October 1, 2024, prohibits camping or sleeping on public property. This law defines camping as lodging, residing, or remaining in an outdoor space temporarily using any tent, hut, lean-to, shack, or temporary shelter that provides cover from the elements for sleeping purposes. Residents can report instances of camping or sleeping on public property through the FixIt FTL app or by visiting FixIt FTL page.

Experiencing or about to experience homelessness? Call 954-563-4357

Community Outreach

FY 2024 (October 1st, 2023 – September 30th, 2024)

  • 269 Total number of homeless inquiries
  • Participated in 130 meetings and presentations within the community

Community Programs

Community Court

  • 2, 772 of walk-ins visited
  • 70 NTAs appeared before court
  • 2,842 Total visits between NTAs and walk-ins
  • 49% of individuals cited appeared before court
  • 36% of individuals completed court requirements and graduated

Housing Navigation

  • 162 Individuals on housing navigation list
  • 34 Individuals were housed or reunified
  • 21% Housing success rate

Coffee and Conversation

  • 294 Individuals attended
  • 72 Individuals visited resource center
  • 46 Individuals referred to substance use treatment

Emergency Shelter Beds

(July - September 2024)

  • 29 Individuals referred to emergency shelter
  • 12 Individuals were on a housing and employment

Meet the Staff

Carole Mitchell
Homeless Initiatives Program Manager
Phone: 954-828-4246
camitchell@fortlauderdale.gov

Marie Joseph
Community Court Coordinator
Phone: 954-828-3456
mjoseph@fortlauderdale.gov

Kayla Weinberg
Homeless Initiatives Senior Administrative Assistant
Phone: 954-828-5750
KWeinberg@fortlauderdale.gov

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