Published on September 30, 2025
Through its Housing and Community Development Department’s (HCD) Homelessness Advocacy and Response Team (HART), the City of West Palm Beach continues it’s efforts to enhance the quality of life for it’s residents through the development of housing, social, and economic opportunities. City staff, in conjunction with multiple social service providers, work to connect individuals with the resources and support needed for stability and self sufficiency.
Mr. Edwards’ path into homelessness began after devastating loss—his wife and daughter were killed by a drunk driver, and soon after he began to lose his vision. Once a musician and small farm owner, his life was upended by grief, depression, and the challenges of becoming legally blind. Living outside while visually impaired was terrifying, and despite wanting to remain independent, he was forced to rely on others for survival.
The City of West Palm Beach’s Homeless Outreach Team first engaged Mr. Edwards in 2021, connecting him to shelter and transitional housing over the years. Yet, his disability and extremely low income made long-term stability difficult. In 2024 and 2025, the team made a renewed effort to secure permanent housing, ensuring his documentation was in order and arranging a short motel stay while his housing applications were finalized.
Today, Mr. Edwards is no longer homeless. He has moved into his own permanent supportive housing unit, where he can finally return each night to a safe, warm bed. His journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of those we serve and the importance of never giving up, on our clients or on hope for a better tomorrow.
While 718 total services were rendered citywide, the figures below highlight key stats such as individuals housed, both citywide and within Downtown West Palm Beach. These numbers exclude services like transportation, documentation procurement, and basic needs, and instead focus on major impact areas.
ENGAGEMENTS OCCURRED throughout the City parks, neighborhoods, targeted, and reported locations to offer homeless services.
Chronically homelesss from WPB were SUCCESSFULLY HOUSED or SHELTERED through community partnerships.
Individuals received referrals and access to MENTAL HEALTH and SUBSTANCE USE SERVICES.
Chronically homeless utilized our Homeward Bound Program.
WALK-IN’S SERVED at the Eva W. Mack Community Hub.
BUSINESSES CONTACTED through targeted outreach.
Individual SERVICE REFUSALS.
ENGAGEMENTS OCCURRED in the Downtown city limits of West Palm Beach.
Chronically homeless from the Downtown area were SUCCESSFULLY HOUSED or SHELTERED through community partnerships.
Chronically homeless in the Downtown area utilized our Homeward Bound Program.
BUSINESSES CONTACTED Downtown through targeted outreach.
Individual SERVICE REFUSALS occurred Downtown.
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Eva W Mack Community Hub 1540 N. Australian Ave, West Palm Beach FL 33407 Questions? Call our main office! (561) 804-4970
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