Philadelphia explores best practices for substance use disorder outreach in Kensington

The Philadelphia City Council's Special Committee on Kensington convened on May 19, 2025, to address the urgent issue of substance use disorder outreach in the Kensington and Harrogate communities. This meeting highlighted the critical role of outreach workers as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use challenges. The committee aimed to gather insights from experts and service providers to identify effective practices and gaps in current outreach efforts.

Amanda David, the interim deputy commissioner for the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services (DBHIDS), presented an overview of the city's outreach initiatives. She emphasized the importance of building trust and rapport with individuals in crisis, noting that outreach workers are essential in connecting them to necessary services such as housing, treatment, and healthcare. The DBHIDS operates several programs, including mobile outreach and recovery services, which have engaged over 1,500 individuals in the past year. These efforts are designed to provide immediate support and facilitate warm handoffs to treatment options.

The committee also discussed the effectiveness of various outreach strategies. Data revealed that individuals who had multiple contacts with outreach teams had significantly higher placement rates in supportive services. For instance, those with five or more contacts had a 46% placement rate compared to just 17% for those with only one contact. This statistic underscores the importance of sustained engagement in outreach efforts.

In addition to direct outreach, the meeting addressed the need for comprehensive support systems, including partnerships with other city agencies. The DBHIDS collaborates with the Office of Homeless Services and the Philadelphia Police Department to enhance outreach effectiveness and ensure a coordinated response to the substance use crisis.

The committee acknowledged the growing challenges in Kensington, calling for expanded resources and sustained funding to meet the increasing demand for outreach services. Recommendations for best practices included creating a multi-faceted approach to outreach, integrating peer specialists into teams, and ensuring low-barrier access to care.

As the meeting concluded, the committee expressed gratitude to the outreach workers and experts for their dedication and commitment to improving the lives of individuals struggling with substance use disorder. The discussions highlighted the ongoing need for thoughtful solutions and community engagement to address the complex issues facing Kensington and the broader Philadelphia area. The committee plans to continue exploring effective outreach strategies and addressing community concerns in future sessions.