More than 460 residents tuned in to the virtual community meeting on Thursday evening, May 14th to learn more about the plans for the Safe Social Distancing Site for unsheltered individuals that will open next week in the parking lot of Finley Community Center. 

The City is taking action to create safer situations for social distancing among those experiencing homelessness as well as to mitigate impacts to the broader community during the public health emergency. For those who are unsheltered, sleeping outdoors often does not provide protection from the environment, quick access to hygiene and sanitation facilities, or connection to healthcare. The Safe Social Distancing Program being established at the parking lot site at Finley Community Center is a part of the City’s strategy to better protect our whole community during the pandemic. 

Understandably, residents have many questions and concerns and the meeting gave participating community members a chance to get answers directly from staff and those who will be operating the site. The meeting was originally set for an hour and a half, but ran for three hours so that staff could get through as many citizens’ questions as possible. We want to thank everyone who took time to tune into the meeting. For those that missed it, you may watch the full presentation and Q&A in the recording below. Please be sure to visit the COVID-19 Homeless Services information page for additional details and FAQs.