Sacramento, California – The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office says its Homeless Outreach Team is meant to do more than respond to complaints. It is meant to meet people where they are, on sidewalks, near encampments, and in other public spaces where homelessness has become part of daily life for many communities in the unincorporated areas of Sacramento County.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the issue is often misunderstood.
“It’s not a housing crisis. It’s a drug addiction crisis. It’s a mental health crisis.”
That is the message being shared as county budget discussions approach and the future of the Homeless Outreach Team faces uncertainty.
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When members of the public call about homeless-related issues, the team responds by contacting individuals living on the streets and offering a range of help. Those options can include services, treatment, shelter, housing assistance, and other resources. The goal is to connect people with support, not simply move them from one place to another.
But the Sheriff’s Office says the reality on the ground is difficult.
According to the information shared, less than 1% of the people contacted accept the services offered. Officials say many refuse help, even when treatment, shelter, or other assistance is available.
“Most don’t want help. They want to continue the lifestyle they’re living,” the statement said.
The concern now is that the very team assigned to this work could be eliminated because of Sacramento County budget cuts. The Sheriff’s Office argues that removing the Homeless Outreach Team would leave fewer tools available to respond to a problem that already affects neighborhoods, businesses, and residents.
The statement also criticizes the broader approach taken by county and state leaders, saying billions have been spent on housing projects that have not solved the crisis. While housing remains a central focus of public policy, the Sheriff’s Office is pointing to addiction and mental health as key parts of the problem that cannot be ignored.
If the team is cut, the Sheriff’s Office warns that the homeless crisis could worsen and further damage quality of life for residents in the unincorporated parts of Sacramento County.
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Community members who want to weigh in are being urged to attend the County Budget Hearings on Wednesday, June 10, at 9:30 a.m. The hearing will take place at the Board of Supervisors Chambers, 700 H Street.