TITLE
Recommendation to receive and file a presentation on “Care Closet LBC” by community leader Duke Givens.
DISCUSSION
COVID-19 has illuminated the existing state of emergency observed on the streets of Long Beach and nationwide, wherein the houseless community continues to grow.[1][2] The growing rate of homelessness is paired with an increasing rate of mortality among persons experiencing homelessness; notably, the rate of overdose mortalities has grown significantly over recent years, particularly among Black and Latinx populations.[3] COVID-19 has compounded challenges facing the houseless community, who often lack access to adequate COVID-19 treatment and preventative measures, including vaccinations.
Care Closet LBC, founded by Duke Givens, was created shortly before the pandemic prompted citywide closures, and has since been actively working to tackle the surmounting issue of homelessness. Just last month, the nonprofit collected around 500 sleeping bags, hundreds of pairs of socks, shoes and other items of clothing and food and spent three days distributing them to homeless encampments and individuals throughout Long Beach.
Therefore, it is necessary for the City Council to receive a brief update on the efforts of Care Closet LBC and support the commitments made by the nonprofit in addressing the City’s homelessness crisis.
Statement of Urgency
Due to the critical nature of this issue urgency is requested on this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
Due to time constraints no fiscal analysis was conducted.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
REX RICHARDSON
VICE MAYOR, NINTH DISTRICT