Outreach
Here are some quick examples of Street Outreach tips and steps that are useful for connecting unhoused people to resources and services in your city.
Prep
Training groups of 3 with 1 mentor (Captain) in each group
Be sure to include history of the neighborhood, safety guidelines and de-escalation practices
Walking through neighborhoods would be better than driving
A mobile cart would be helpful to have supplies to give out
Gifts
If there is capacity, ask the community in each location for their wishlist
Start with simple items to give out: socks, food bars, water etc.
If you want to be remembered easily, gift them with something unique: hot coco, homemade muffins, lavender flowers etc.
0 waste practice / be sure to clean up
Goals and Metrics
Be clear on your purpose
How do we measure if we're fulfilling the purpose? Make things measurable
Partner with experts (social workers, psychiatrists, housing navigators)
Trust and Support
If you see people who are aggravated, leave them alone. You don't need to engage with everyone, especially if you don't know them
If you do see people who are activated and you have a rapport with them, you can ask them "What's going on?" or "how can I help?"
If you promise to follow up with an unhoused person to connect them to resources or services- be sure to follow through