HOMELESS OUTREACH PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
July 18, 2012
A meeting of the Homeless Outreach Program Advisory Committee was held on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at 10:00 am at 120 Washington Street, Salem, MA. Present were Shelly McPherson of Lifebridge and Jane Guy of the City of Salem Department of Planning and Community Development.
Ms. McPherson stated that Lifebridge has hired a new Outreach Worker, Matt Willis-Goode, who is working 7.5 hours per week and provided an updated Downtown Outreach Program summary sheet. He is a pastor in Haverhill. She stated that between Matt and her, there is typically someone out on the streets daily at random times.
Ms. Guy provided a copy of the Heritage Days calendar with downtown family events highlighted as recommendations for the Outreach Worker to make an appearance.
In response to contact from Rinus Oosthoek from the Salem Chamber of Commerce who has received complaints regarding persons sleeping/drinking/living in the area behind Wendy’s on the South River. She stated that the Outreach Workers are making it a point to go by there every day.
Ms. Guy suggested that they walk the entire length of the Harborwalk and check the benches at Peabody Street Park.
Ms. Guy stated that she has seen persons sleeping on the benches on Salem Common, near the Knights of Columbus and the playground.
The next meeting will be September 19, 2012.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane A. Guy
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