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Homeless Initiative

Homeless Initiative Business Information

Business owners may face unique challenges when encountering unhoused individuals.  We understand that many have the desire to help, yet are conflicted with what is the “right thing to do.”  Business owners have a dual obligation to their customers and their community.  Do you know what to do if you find an encampment on your business’s property, have a panhandler near your entrance, or if someone refuses to leave the premises?

While we acknowledge that being unhoused is not a crime and panhandling is not illegal, Douglas County will continue to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for crime in our community to help ensure the safety of all our citizens in a compassionate, responsible manner, by providing tools and resources for businesses to help address these challenges.

Trespass Letter

A trespass letter is a tool that businesses can use when someone repeatedly comes to a property after they were asked to leave

Trespass Letters

Signs

A public awareness campaign has been developed to redirect the kindness and generosity of our residents in support of the unhoused.  The campaign includes uniform signage, “Handouts Don’t Help,” strategically located throughout the county,

Business Requests for Handouts Don’t Help Signs

Homeless Engagement Assistance and Resource Team (HEART)

The Homeless Engagement Assistance and Resource Team (HEART) is a co-responder team that pairs Navigators with local law enforcement to respond to community calls regarding homelessness and provides support and resources to unhoused individuals contacted as they arise.

Homeless Engagement, Assistance and Resource Team (HEART)

Encampment Clean-ups

If you find an encampment on your business property, please contact the Homeless Engagement Assistance and Resource Team (HEART).  They will make contact with any individuals who may be in the encampment and connect business owners with vendors for safe and fast cleanup.

HEART is available Monday through Friday, between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.  You may call the HEART at 303-660-7301 or use the online referral link below.

Referral

Douglas County Homeless Initiative

The Douglas County Homeless Initiative (DCHI) values everyone in our community and uses a person-focused approach to balance compassion and public safety with the complex challenges of the unhoused.

Homeless Initiative