LAHSA - Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority

01/14/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/14/2025 20:43

LAHSA Fire Response Update: LAHSA Mobilizes to Engage People Living in High-Risk Areas

LAHSA Fire Response Update: LAHSA Mobilizes to Engage People Living in High-Risk Areas

Los Angeles-With a projected increase in the Santa Ana winds, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority's (LAHSA) outreach teams are working around the clock engaging with people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in high-fire-danger areas. Outreach teams are dispersing fire safety information, N95 masks, other personal protection equipment (PPE), and meals. In addition, they are offering temporary housing to bring more people inside to safety.

"Protecting our community means protecting everyone. With the renewed threat from the Santa Ana winds, it is critical that LAHSA provides education and addresses the needs of people living outside in at-risk areas," said Dr. Va Lecia Adams Kellum, CEO of LAHSA. "LAHSA is also staying in continuous contact with LAFD, LAPD, LA County departments, and elected offices to ensure we deploy resources where they are needed most to ensure the health and safety of our whole community."

The Latest from LAHSA's Response:

Outreach Update

  • On January 13, 15 outreach teams deployed in 30 high-danger areas to engage people experiencing homelessness. The teams contacted people living outdoors and in RVs near fields to provide educational materials on fire safety and meals and offered motel vouchers and beds at LAHSA's Welcome Navigation Center.

  • Seven of the locations were in Council Districts 4 and 7.

  • Through these efforts in CDs 4 and 7, LAHSA placed five people into temporary housing.

  • Today, 43 LAHSA outreach teams are entering very high fire safety zones and other locations flagged by the City of Los Angeles as high-risk. Outreach teams will continue to provide fire safety information, temporary housing, meals, and N95 masks.

Motel Voucher Update

  • Vouchers received by LAHSA: 685

  • Total vouchers distributed through 211 and LAHSA outreach teams: 645

Supply Distribution Update

  • LAHSA has distributed 4800 N95 masks, along with hand sanitizer and protective goggles to people experiencing unsheltered homelessness and providers.

Shelter Update

  • No LAHSA shelters are currently under evacuation.

  • As of 1/13, all temporary Recreation and Parks evacuation shelters are closed, and the staff has been reallocated to help with other fire response-related efforts.