Cathedral City Police unveils homeless button on app
The Cathedral City Police Department unveiled a new “homeless button” on the department’s app. The button allows people to file reports with pictures anonymously or by using contact information.
Residents will be able to report about illegal panhandling, camps or people who might want help with food or housing.
CCPD Chief Travis Walker said the last “point in time” survey showed at least 76 homeless people lived in the city. All 76 were considered “chronic homeless.” This means that they have been homeless for an extended period of time .
Many of Cathedral City’s homeless also appeared to be suffering from drug or alcohol addiction and many refused services and/or resources to get them placed in drug treatment programs or temporary housing, Walker said.
Some also appeared to be suffering from a brain injury or mental health illness. None reported being veterans.
To download the app, search for “Cathedral City Police” on your app store.