PPTFH Discusses Homeless Count Results, Status of Restructuring

By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor

Pacific Palisades Task Force on Homelessness discussed the recent annual Los Angeles Homeless Count results and the status of the organization’s restructuring in a letter circulated Tuesday, August 1.

Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority released the results of this year’s Homeless Count on Thursday, June 29, revealing an increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness in LA County and the city of LA.

An estimated 75,518 people were found to be experiencing homelessness in LA County on any given night, a 9% increase from 2022. An estimated 46,260 individuals were found to be experiencing homelessness citywide, a 10% increase from 2022.

PPTFH Co-President Sharon Browning said LAHSA had not yet released the findings for each specific community, but the information is expected to be released by the end of the summer. She said she expects the data for the Palisades will show no increase in individuals, tents and make-shift shelters, but an increase in vans and vehicles concentrated along PCH.

Additionally, recent data shows it takes less time to place people from street encampments into interim housing than it did before Mayor Karen Bass’ Inside Safe program, according to PPTFH.

“These are positive signs that the overall homeless service system is beginning to open up and respond,” the PPTFH letter stated. “What does this mean for PPTFH and Pacific Palisades? Now more than ever, we need to stay on our mission.”

To do so, PPTFH revealed plans to “restructure and reposition” in March 2023.

Part of PPTFH’s restructuring included the dissolving of its 501(c)(3), and, per its original agreement with The People Concern, transferring the remaining funds to The People Concern.

In the August 1 letter, PPTFH reported that it had secured the necessary approvals from the California Attorney General’s Office and Secretary of State to complete its restructuring. The People Concern now acts as PPTFH’s fiscal sponsor and will continue providing professional homeless outreach to the Palisades, as long as funding is available, according to the letter.

PPTFH said its new structure will allow its Volunteer Response Team to grow, enhance its partnership with The People Concern and collaboration with the Los Angeles Police Department, and support the organization’s ability to be flexible, responsible and collaborate with others.

Through the remainder of the month, Palisadians have the opportunity to support The People Concern on a local level: The Draycott has partnered with the organization throughout August and will donate 10% of its Happy Hour proceeds.

“The People Concern is proud to have community partners like The Draycott supporting us in truly making a difference,” according to a statement made by The People Concern. “Whether it’s through community fundraisers, volunteer events or donations, our supporters help us keep Angelenos housed, healthy and safe.”

Located at 15255 Palisades Village Lane, Happy Hour at The Draycott takes place weekdays, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

As for PPTFH Co-Presidents Sharon Kilbride and Browning, Kilbride will continue acting as PPTFH’s liaison with LAPD and the LAPD beach detail, and Browning will continue serving on The People Concern and PPTFH Outreach Oversight Committee—but two individuals have stepped up to take on the roles as PPTFH’s new co-leaders: Carmen Kallberg and Cindi Young.

“Carmen and Cindi are active members of PPTFH’s Volunteer Response Team, dedicated to the wellbeing of Pacific Palisades, and committed to connecting homeless individuals to compassionate services and housing,” the letter stated.

A community webinar is slated for November 13 to launch 2024 under its new leadership. The meeting will run from 7 to 8:30 p.m., and attendees will have the opportunity to hear from Kallberg and Young, LAPD representatives, Kilbride, and guest speaker John Maceri, CEO of The People Concern.

“Thank you for your support and caring during PPTFH’s transition and in the days ahead,” the letter concluded.

For more information, visit palisadeshomeless.org.