During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing issue of homelessness in the community, highlighting the efforts of a dedicated team aimed at addressing this growing concern. Funded through hospitality money and ATAX, the team works closely with local businesses, including both large retailers and small enterprises, to tackle quality of life issues related to homelessness.
The team, referred to as the \"team 6 program,\" engages with various stakeholders, including the local chamber of commerce and community organizations like Dream, to address problems such as public drunkenness, littering, and other behaviors associated with homelessness. The program's proactive approach aims to mitigate these issues through community collaboration.
Mayor Touchberry has been actively involved in discussions with other local mayors, including those from Charleston and North Charleston, to explore potential solutions for providing shelter to the homeless population. The mayors are working together to identify a consolidated location for sheltering individuals in need, reflecting a regional commitment to addressing the alarming rise in homelessness.
Despite these efforts, officials noted a significant challenge: many individuals experiencing homelessness are resistant to accepting help. This complicates the community's ability to effectively address the issue, underscoring the need for continued dialogue and innovative solutions among local leaders.