Encinitas partners with PATH and JFS to combat homelessness

The City of Encinitas is ramping up its efforts to combat homelessness, focusing on mental health and substance abuse support. During the recent Senior Citizen Commission meeting, officials highlighted the ongoing work of PATH, which conducts outreach twice a week to assist unsheltered individuals. In 2024, PATH served 100 clients and successfully placed 15 into permanent housing.

Additionally, the Jewish Family Services (JFS) safe parking program, launched in February 2020, continues to provide crucial resources at the Encinitas Senior and Community Center. With 25 parking spaces available, the program has supported 36 unhoused individuals, resulting in 16 positive housing transitions. The average stay for vehicles in the program is 119 days, with a 76% occupancy rate.

City staff also discussed collaboration with the county and community partners through the HOPE team, which includes expanded sheriff's deputies for weekend coverage. In 2024, the HOPE team responded to 379 requests related to homelessness, emphasizing the need for ongoing public engagement and resource allocation.

These initiatives reflect Encinitas' commitment to addressing homelessness through comprehensive support systems, aiming to stabilize individuals and facilitate their transition back into permanent housing.