From SFPD Central Station Captain Paul Yep’s May 2, 2018 newsletter:
This past March, Central Station designated six officers to help deal with homeless related issues not only within the district, but throughout the City of San Francisco. Homeless Outreach officers Damien Fahey, Brandon Harris, Tomas Guerrero, Vincent Busalacchi, Stephen Collins, and James Lewis have been working to provide those in need such services as shelter, medical evaluations, and opportunities to reconnect with loved ones in other cities, and perhaps other states. These officers also work closely with the community to enforce sit/lie laws to ensure safe and clean streets throughout the district.
Recently, we received calls that there was a large encampment that blocked the entire sidewalk on the 100 block of Quincy Street. Our homeless outreach officers were notified of the situation and observed multiple people lodging on the block with garbage all around. Through the dedication of these officers, and help from the Department of Public Works, they were able to speak with the individuals in the encampment and advise them about the illegal lodging laws. The officers were also able to provide information regarding services the city offers to those who are homeless and looking to take the initial steps for help. Shortly thereafter, the blocklong encampment was removed and has since been free of any obstructions.
Our homeless outreach officers are hard at work, 7 days a week to not only provide services to those in need, but to connect with the community and listen to what concerns they may have regarding homeless related issues. Through this new detail, the district is striving for a better quality of living for all its citizens and for those who visit it. If you see these officers during your travels, feel free to say hello and bring up any issues or ideas you may have. Also note that through the 311 app and/or heathlystreets@sfgov.org email, any homeless related issues can be reported. By doing this, calls for service can be documented through proper channels and engage our other City Agencies (clean-up/health and homeless).