HOMELESS OUTREACH PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
September 21, 2011
A meeting of the Homeless Outreach Program Advisory Committee was held on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 10:00 am at 120 Washington Street, Salem, MA. Present were Shelly McPherson, Adrienne Fowler and Timothy Sweeney of Lifebridge, Ben Bouchard of the Salem Chamber of Commerce and Jane Guy of the City of Salem Department of Planning and Community Development.
Ms. Fowler stated that Mr. Sweeney’s role will be to be on the streets meeting one on one with clients 6 hours per week to access needs and connect to services. Ms. McPherson’s role will be to connect with businesses and that she will be meeting with the various downtown businesses. She will also work 6 hours per week, with the same hours per week.
Mr. Bouchard stated that the Chamber has a weekly electronic newsletter that can publish announcements, such as introducing new staff.
Ms. Guy suggested that Mr. Bouchard provide Ms. McPherson with businesses that would be more of a priority for her to meet with. She suggested that Mr. Sweeney accompany Ms. McPherson when she meets with businesses.
Mr. Bouchard stated that he has notice a rise in panhandling recently, and provided descriptions of specific persons.
Ms. Guy suggested that Mr. Sweeney vary his patrol hours each week so that offenders do not pick up on his routine. She provided a listing of the events for Haunted Happenings and stated that she would like to see Mr. Sweeney make an appearance at the events that are in the downtown and that involve families.
Mr. Bouchard stated that the cut through from the train station to HMA has been a major hangout for individuals and that at one time a tent was erected by homeless persons. He stated that they are very engaging with train riders walking through. Mr. Sweeney will add this area to his patrol.
The next meeting will be April 18, 2012.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane A. Guy
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