A need has been identified to develop a public awareness campaign that supports a compassionate response for those experiencing homelessness while maintaining the safety of the Douglas County community. A recommendation that this campaign is developed in cooperation with communication professionals from the County, municipalities, and local partner agencies using a multi-prong approach to provide education on the current state of homelessness, resources available, and how residents can safely help.
We recommend the campaign include uniform signage strategically located throughout the county that encourages residents and businesses to contribute toward local agencies supporting the unhoused, rather than giving money directly to panhandlers. Law enforcement representatives have indicated this would be a safe way for well-meaning residents to contribute to a community-wide solution.