What to do if you see homelessness in Sarasota, per ABC7
If you see someone experiencing homelessness in Sarasota, city officials ask you to notify the Homeless Outreach Team rather than give cash, food, or clothing. During an ABC7 News at Noon interview, Homelessness Response Coordinator Shellie Legarsky said reporting sightings helps case managers connect people with housing, mental health care, and other long-term services.
The guidance aired as Sarasota highlights progress on street homelessness. Legarsky credited the Homeless Outreach Team and community agencies for helping reduce local homelessness over the past decade, according to ABC7 WWSB.
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Key Takeaways
- Sarasota's Homeless Outreach Team includes four officers, one sergeant, a coordinator, and two case managers.
- Legarsky told ABC7 that homelessness has declined in Sarasota over the past decade.
- Direct street giving can make it harder for outreach workers to connect people with housing-focused help.
- Residents can call case managers or email HomelessResponse@SarasotaFL.gov at 941-263-6302.
- Volunteering or donating to organizations like Resurrection House is encouraged.
What should you do if you see homelessness in Sarasota?
Legarsky said the kindest response is to let the city know when you see someone unsheltered. Case managers meet people at encampments, parks, Selby Library, The Salvation Army, and Resurrection House.
Residents with questions can contact case managers Krystal Frazier at 941-374-2404 or Carly Tolkacz at 941-387-5744. The city also lists HomelessResponse@SarasotaFL.gov and 941-263-6302 for the Homeless Outreach Team.
Why does the city discourage giving money or food directly?
Legarsky told ABC7 that when immediate needs are met through cash, clothing, or food from well-meaning residents, people may be less likely to accept longer-term services. She described those gifts as enabling that can keep someone homeless.
Instead, Sarasota Police encourages donating to local service providers and notifying HOT when someone may need assistance.
How does Sarasota's Homeless Outreach Team work?
The Sarasota Police Department's HOT partners with the city on street outreach, case management, and referrals to local programs. Needs vary by person and may include mental health services, substance abuse treatment, court issues, ID documents, food assistance, employment, or disability benefits.
Since 2015, an agreement with The Salvation Army offers a free night's stay when police bring someone to the shelter voluntarily. HOT can also help with Sarasota Housing Authority vouchers and referrals through the county Continuum of Care.
The Homeward Bound program helps eligible individuals reunite with family outside Sarasota, providing bus tickets after confirming housing with a receiving party.
What is Sarasota Police's approach to enforcement?
Sarasota Police describes its model as "Educate, Encourage and Enforcement." Officers first explain city ordinances and available services, then encourage cooperation with case managers.
Enforcement—including summons or arrest—comes only if criminal activity continues after education and encouragement efforts.