The discussion highlights the City’s proactive TOEP (Targeted Outreach and Engagement Program), coordination with partners like PATH, HomeFirst, and the County, and how targeted outreach helps resolve encampments with dignity and care. From navigating severe weather to de-escalating conflict and connecting people to behavioral health, Vanessa and Greg share the complexity and care of this essential work. They explain how the City’s outreach teams work directly with unhoused residents, forming relationships and shaping real change in the lives of San José’s most vulnerable residents.
Targeted Outreach and Engagement Program(TOEP) - a model focusing on resolving encampments. Collaboration between departments helps bringing specific services and resources to sites and encourage unsheltered residents to seek shelter and forge a path to rehabilitation.
The Vulnerability Index – Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool(VI-SPIDAT) - an assessment tool for frontline workers at agencies that work with homeless clients to prioritize which of those clients should receive assistance first. The SPDAT tools are also designed to help guide case management and improve housing stability outcomes.