Homeless Crisis

The summit’s mission is clear: to create an accountable, measurable approach to addressing homelessness in Austin.

Stakeholders initially estimated over $500 million will be needed and the city’s Homeless Strategy Officer is expected to outline the cost more clearly.

Open flames and dogs off-leash roaming onto the property from the encampment were all seen Sunday afternoon by FOX 7 and Balcones Youth Sports staff.

Austin doesn’t have enough housing or shelter space for the estimated 3,000 residents experiencing homelessness.

The $1.4 billion budget goes into effect on Oct. 1 and includes investments in mental and behavioral health, elections and emergency response.

The camp was located under the I-35 overpass between 6th and 7th Streets near Austin Police Department Headquarters.

Esperanza Community, also known as Camp Esperanza, is located at 780 U.S. 183 in southeast Austin, near Ben White Boulevard.

The city budgeted $179 million for homelessness assistance from fiscal year 2019 to 2021 issuing 47 resolutions, ordinances, and other directions.

The city of San Marcos is set to discuss camping within city limits, panhandling, and the direction of police enforcement during city council.

The funds are in addition to Austin City Council’s allocation of $100 million of American Recovery Plan Act money for supportive housing.

Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton have issued a joint letter to Texas cities reminding them the camping ban must be enforced.

There’s $1 billion in rental assistance available to struggling Texas tenants. But for many renters, getting the help they need depends on where they live.

House Bill 1925 makes camping in an unapproved public place a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.

Four Austin business owners have partnered with Save Austin Now to sue the City of Austin over the enforcement of the homeless camping ban.