LASD Homeless outreach services Team and collaborators Receive Awards
On Wednesday, March 30, 2022, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) hosted a luncheon to recognize the Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST), and organizations that have partnered with them to make a difference in the homeless crisis in Los Angeles.
HOST received the Department’s Exemplary Service Award for their extraordinary efforts to assist individuals during the 2021 homeless crisis. Law enforcement personnel are often the first contact with those experiencing homelessness. HOST was created to exemplify the Sheriff’s Department’s efforts to combat homelessness and preserve public safety. The LASD HOST’s mission is to positively impact the homeless crisis in the county, while increasing public safety and preserving the rights and dignity of persons experiencing homelessness. Lieutenant Deedrick, your extraordinary leadership, commitment, and hard work are truly worthy of recognition!
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was presented with the LASD Humanitarian Award for their partnership as a co-response team with HOST. Since 2017, LAHSA has built and maintained strong working relationships with the homeless community. They connected this vulnerable population with services, while effectively improving the health and safety of our streets. Thank you to every member of LAHSA for your extraordinary efforts and dedication to make a difference in the homeless community of Los Angeles.
Ron Hooks, West Coast Care’s Executive Director, received the LASD Humanitarian Award for his outstanding efforts and dedication as part of the LASD HOST. West Coast’s mission is the reunification of homeless individuals with their families and close friends. They contact estranged family members or friends and act as mediators between them and the person living outside. They also provide bus tickets, car repairs, and other travel resources needed to get the person safely back home. Ron, you embody the true spirit of humanity and you’re an example to us all.
Jason Schneidman, founder of the Men’s Groomer Foundation, was also presented with the LASD Humanitarian Award for his devotion to the LASD HOST mission of addressing the homeless crisis with compassion and dignity. Jason strongly believes a haircut can change a person’s appearance, instill confidence, and allow them to reach for opportunities when they thought life had passed them by. Jason has found that those struggling with drugs and alcohol addiction are the ones he can help most. He can connect with them because he has been there himself.
Venice, CA, has always been a special place to Jason. June of 2021, he partnered with the HOST to address the homeless encampment at the Venice Beach Boardwalk. On multiple occasions, Jason brought volunteer barbers and held large-scale events to serve those who were homeless on the Venice Boardwalk and make a difference, “one haircut at a time.” Jason also sponsors individuals so they can enter rehabilitation programs to overcome their addiction.
Jason’s compassion, selflessness, and humbleness are simply admirable. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is honored to count on you in our mission to positively impact the homeless crisis in Los Angeles.
Three deputies from the LASD HOST were presented with the LASD Lifesaving Award. On September 23, 2021, while conducting outreach services at a homeless encampment, deputies from the LASD HOST observed an unconscious male. They quickly rendered assistance to him, assessed the severity of his medical situation and determined he was suffering from a narcotic overdose. They immediately administered NARCAN and monitored him until paramedics arrived. Their quick actions were essential in saving his life, and LASD recognizes the deputies’ heroism.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homeless Outreach Services Team will continue to provide help and house homeless individuals. If you would like to join this effort, please contact Lieutenant Deedrick by emailing him at [email protected].
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homeless Outreach Services Team Awards
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