Broward County Transit's Project Homeless Connect addressing homelessness in the county
Key Points(5)
- In the ongoing battle against homelessness, Broward County Transit (BCT) is stepping up with a compassionate and comprehensive strategy to address the countywide issue.
- Recognizing the need to support individuals experiencing homelessness while ensuring the safety of passengers, BCT has collaborated with various agencies to launch Project Homeless Connect.
- "At BCT, we are committed to both supporting our riders and fostering a safe and secure environment," says Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager, Broward County Transportation.
- A specialized team of street outreach workers, including a licensed clinical practitioner, engages with individuals, assesses their needs, and provides referrals for shelter and housing.
- Through this collaborative effort, over 324 individuals experiencing homelessness who frequently use public transportation have been identified, with essential services such as shelter placements, case management, mental health resources, and legal assistance provided.
In the ongoing battle against homelessness, Broward County Transit (BCT) is stepping up with a compassionate and comprehensive strategy to address the countywide issue.
Recognizing the need to support individuals experiencing homelessness while ensuring the safety of passengers, BCT has collaborated with various agencies to launch Project Homeless Connect.
"At BCT, we are committed to both supporting our riders and fostering a safe and secure environment," says Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager, Broward County Transportation. "Project Homeless Connect exemplifies this commitment through collaboration with Broward County Agencies, Law Enforcement, and community organizations."
Since November 2023, BCT has joined forces with the Broward County Human Services Division of Housing Options, Solutions, and Support (HOSS-D) team and other community partners to address homelessness at bus terminals, stops, and specific routes.
A specialized team of street outreach workers, including a licensed clinical practitioner, engages with individuals, assesses their needs, and provides referrals for shelter and housing. Through this collaborative effort, over 324 individuals experiencing homelessness who frequently use public transportation have been identified, with essential services such as shelter placements, case management, mental health resources, and legal assistance provided.
Project Homeless Connect at the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Terminal has been a success, since launching on February 20, 2024, and has yielded positive results:
• 19 individuals sheltered.
• 20 individuals connected with addiction recovery services at the Broward Addiction Recovery Center (BARC).
• One person received medical care.
• Another individual was reunited with their family.
In addition to these direct interventions, the project has enhanced the transit center environment by compassionately storing individuals' belongings and implementing improvements like deep cleaning, upgraded lighting, and enhanced customer amenities.
A Life Transformed
A remarkable story emerged during a February 24 outreach event, where a woman, at her lowest point, battling addiction, found hope. Initially hesitant, witnessing the support around her inspired her to seek help. Now, 49 days sober, she thrives in residential treatment.
“We view this initial effort as a huge success,” says Cuff Lonergan, “we will continue to monitor activities at our Broward Central Terminal location and provide similar services as necessary with our shelterless support partners.”
In the coming months, Broward County Transit, alongside homeless outreach partners, plans to expand outreach to additional locations including the Northeast Transit Center in Pompano Beach, FL, the Lauderhill Transit Center in Lauderhill, Florida, and the West Terminal in Plantation, FL.
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