Downey homeless outreach teams record five positive exits in March

Downey’s homeless outreach team. (City of Downey photo)

DOWNEY – The City of Downey on Monday released its March 2026 Homeless Services Impact Report, highlighting ongoing outreach and housing efforts carried out through its partnership with nonprofit service provider City Net.

According to the report, City Net recorded 88 client interactions and enrolled 78 clients during March. Outreach teams also reported five “positive exits,” which include individuals moving off the streets or out of shelter into more stable living situations.

The report also documented two exits to shelter and two exits to temporary housing, along with 118 total services provided, including case management, transportation, documentation assistance and medical or mental health referrals. Eighteen clients received case management services or referrals during the month.

Downey officials said the city continues to address homelessness through STEP, its Strategic Team for Engagement and Prevention. The multi-departmental initiative includes City Net, the Downey Police Department, the department’s Mental Evaluation Team, Public Works, Code Enforcement, Parks and Recreation, and the City Manager’s Office.

The city entered into a partnership with City Net in August 2024 to expand outreach, case management and housing support efforts for unhoused residents.

The March report included several case studies illustrating the type of outreach being conducted throughout the city.

One case involved a man experiencing homelessness who sought help reconnecting with family in North Carolina. According to the report, City Net case managers coordinated with Downey police during the enrollment process, helped the man obtain identifying documents and ultimately arranged transportation to Union Station, along with a train ticket and food for his trip home.

Another case involved a man living in his vehicle behind an LA Fitness location. City Net staff connected him with referrals through LAHSA Interim Housing and Housing for Health before helping transport him to an intake appointment at First to Serve Coronado in Los Angeles.

A third success story detailed outreach efforts at Crawford Park, where case managers met a person who had relocated from Oregon to California for work but had experienced homelessness for five years following the COVID-19 pandemic. The individual was connected with benefits including Medi-Cal, CalFresh and general relief before being referred to the Salvation Army Bell Shelter.

The report also highlighted outreach involving a woman living in her vehicle along Firestone Boulevard. After previously declining most services, she agreed in March to connect with the Department of Mental Health through Telecare after case managers arranged a referral and meeting.

The city’s February 2026 report showed 63 client interactions, 65 clients enrolled and four positive exits. January’s report documented 95 client interactions, 92 clients enrolled and 15 positive exits.

City officials said the partnership with City Net is intended to provide long-term housing solutions and supportive services while helping individuals regain stability and self-sufficiency.